Autism affects one in 110 children in the United States, and one of every 70 boys are diagnosed with the developmental disability.
April has been Autism Awareness Month, and local experts say early treatment is key for parents and families already affected. The community can help them by simply understanding.
"Autism has many faces," said mother Ginger Luetkemeyer. "There is not just one treatment plan that will work across the board, there are several different treatment paths that often you need to consider.
"Each child, even in the same family, is unique."
Autism spectrum disorders are the fastest growing developmental disabilities, and there is no research or findings that point to a cause, causes or treatments.
Locally:
The Cole County Autism Family meeting is at 6 p.m. Thursday at Cole County Special Services Building, 1908 Boggs Creek Road.