These days, autism is popping up everywhere -- on "The Nanny," on "Dr. Phil," in magazines and newspapers. Some of the attention is terrific, in that it helps raise awareness and promote early treatment. But a lot of the media hype is just that -- hype.

For parents just beginning to think of their precious child as autistic, it's important to get beyond the hype. It's even more important to know that hope is realistic. And to remember that their child hasn't changed just because he or she has been handed a label.

Top Myths About Autism confronts just a few of the more frightening stories out there...