Autism is a neurological disorder that affects the way the brain processes information. This in turn affects the development and behavior of people who have autism. Areas affected in children and adults with Autism Spectrum Disorders are verbal and non-verbal communication; social skills, relationships, behavior, interests and activities. Despite sharing these three common challenges, autism is called a Spectrum Disorder because there is a wide range of symptoms that people with autism may display, as well as a range in the degree to which the symptoms affect their lives.