Autism is a brain-based disorder. Doctors don't know what causes autism, and there is no cure. Kids with autism have trouble making sense of the world around them. They don't make connections with words and feelings like most people do. Kids with autism have trouble talking with others, which makes it hard to make friends. They often spend their time alone and seem to be "in their own world". Therapy can help kids with autism communicate with others and live better lives.