Misconceptions about what autism is—and what it isn’t—still shape how society views, supports, and interacts with autistic individuals. Today, 1 in 31 children in the U.S. has autism, up from a previous estimate of 1 in 36, Autism Speaks notes. To deepen that understanding, here are 15 things you might not know about autism—but should. Autism diagnoses are increasing, but that’s not a bad thing. The rise in autism diagnoses reflects better awareness and assessment tools, not a sudden epidemic.