JaynaGirl Website

Welcome to my web site, dedicated to my daughter JAYNA who has been diagnosed with Autism, AD/HD and Tourette's Syndrome. This site was originally designed to help people find useful information about Autism / PDD-NOS. As Jayna has grown older her symptoms and diagnosis has changed, therefore I have updated the site to keep people informed about these related disorders. In this web site you will find information that will explain and help you to understand the terms related to these complex conditions.
Thank You,
   John Cragin ( Jayna's Daddy )
  Creator of JaynaGirl Website.

Autism is a complex developmental disability that typically appears during the first three years of life. The result of a neurological disorder that affects the functioning of the brain, autism and its associated behaviors have been estimated to occur in as many as 2 to 6 in 1,000 individuals (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention 2001). Autism is four times more prevalent in boys than girls and knows no racial, ethnic, or social boundaries. Family income, lifestyle, and educational levels do not affect the chance of autism's occurrence.

Atypical Pervasive Developmental Disorder (PDD), PDDNOS (Not Otherwise Specified), are names for neurobiological disorders at the "mild" end of the autistic spectrum, which affect language and social functioning, often with accompanying perceptual, cognitive, emotional and behavioral symptoms and sometimes motor problems. Autistic-like behaviors and language patterns are frequently evident. Because these are very serious and chronic disorders, affected children need special education, and often medical and psychological intervention, while their parents need encouragement and information.

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (AD/HD)is generally considered to be a neurobiological disorder. Researchers believe that the symptoms of AD/HD are caused by chemicals in the brain not working properly. It is characterized by the inability to sustain focused attention, impulsivity and hyperactivity.

Tourette's Syndrome is an inherited, neurological disorder characterized by repeated and involuntary body movements (tics) and uncontrollable vocal sounds. In a minority of cases, the vocalizations can include socially inappropriate words and phrases -- called coprolalia. These outbursts are neither intentional nor purposeful. Involuntary symptoms can include eye blinking, repeated throat clearing or sniffing, arm thrusting, kicking movements, shoulder shrugging or jumping.