Typically surfacing at varying degrees during the first three years of life, autism noticeably affects a person's ability to communicate and interact with others.

Although autism is treatable, it cannot be outgrown or cured. But early diagnosis and intervention can lead to a significantly improved outcome.

Abnormalities in brain structure and function are believed to be a primary cause of autism, impacting social interaction and communication skills.

With years of experience in art instruction, South Arts has designed this program to offer young people a means to create, express and use their imagination through various types of art.

Instructor Karen Hartman and her assistant Kim Kraves have experience in teaching autistic and other special needs children. Some young people are comfortable attending classes without a caregiver. Others need the security of a parent.

The schedule includes:

n Acrylic Painting on Canvas, June 7.

n Watercolor painting, July 1.

n Craft with wooden sticks, Aug. 5.

Times are 1 to 2:30 p.m. for ages 5 to 11 and 3:30 to 5 p.m. for ages 12 to 18. Call 412-835-6630 ext. 224 for details.

"If participation is good, I plan to offer classes for autistic children all year," said Karen. "South Arts also holds art classes in various mediums at recreation centers throughout the South Hills. Special needs children are encouraged to try a class. They may find a real interest here."

Washington County resident Sandy Kadash has a 20-year-old son with autism. "He developed normally until he reached a year and a half," said Sandy. "Then I started to notice he wouldn't look at me when I talked to him, acting like he didn't hear me. Doctors repeatedly told me my son was normal and not to worry. Not until after his third birthday was he diagnosed with autism. I'd like to find an activity or craft to keep him busy--something he enjoys."

"In second grade my son Josh was diagnosed with learning disabilities," said Patty Bails of Houston. "His social skills were poor and he was bullied. It wasn't until Josh was in seventh grade that I learned he had Asperger's syndrome. The Watson Institute's prognosis explained his deficiencies in social and communication skills."

Therapists have worked to improve Josh's social skills. They also give him tips on how to work through the bullying that still continues daily. He likes to do things he can do alone, like golf or bowling. For Josh, team involvement is just too stressful. To better learn how others handle difficult situations and to share what works for them, Dave and Patty Bails attend a monthly support group at the Cameron Wellness Center.

Other classes with a focus on autism include:

n Jump & Shout sponsored by PA Connecting Communities, 10 a.m. Saturdays and/or 6:30 p.m. Mondays, Bethel Park Community Center. Call 412-784-1470.

n Autism 101: a free online course through Autism Society of America.

n Therapeutic Services in Castle Shannon has a summer camp for special needs kids (mostly autistic). Call 412-833-6663.