Children with autism often show very limited language ability (e.g., delayed language development, impaired vocabulary), decreased cognitive skills (e.g., impaired learning and intellectual ability), and limited social functioning (e.g., poor eye contact, socially/emotionally withdrawn). Often these children are described as “being in their own little world.” Although they may be aware of their environment and show interest towards objects and things, they tend to show little interest in people or developing relationships (e.g., sharing, exchanging smiles, etc). Repetitive behaviors including hand-flapping, running in circles, pacing; fixations with objects/toys; very narrow interests, inflexibility, atypical (odd/unusual) behaviors such as self-talking or echolalia (repeating words/phrases spoken by others), and very limited attention and impulse are commonly associated with autism. However, autism can range from low to high functioning. Those on the lower end of the spectrum tend to have some form of mental retardation, demonstrate poor independent-life and self-care skills, and very limited language abilities (or are classified as nonverbal). Children who are on the lower or moderate end of the spectrum are often described as having classic autism.On the other hand, high functioning autism is often associated with average (or above average) intelligence and they tend to do better with independent-life and self-care skills. In addition, they may also have adequate vocabulary and linguistic skills, despite language delays as a child. Nonetheless, they are usually very often limited in their ability to communicate effectively with others (e.g., social communication). Although quite rare, sometimes children with autism can have an exceptional gift in a narrow area (e.g., music, mathematical ability). Although autism is considered a bio-genetic neurological disorder, the exact cause remains unknown. Research shows that environmental agents occurring during development and early infancy likely play a role as well, especially given the rising prevalence rates.