CAMDEN, Del.- A new report shows more children may have autism than originally thought. A recent report conducted by the Health Resources and Services Administration showed nearly one in every 100 children ages 3 to 17, has autism.

That means 673,000 children across the country suffer from the disorder. Experts said it is not clear whether more frequent diagnosis has led to the increase.

The John. S. Charlton School in Camden helps students with autism and other disabilities and disorders. Students at the school need special attention to learn to read and develop motor skills. 

"A lot of our kids need extra support in some areas," said Shannon Simons, the school's assistant principal. 

There is an emphasis on building "life skills" at the school. Students are taught how to make their beds, they learn how to cook simple recipes and they learn how to clean.

"We're trying to teach them the applicable skills that you and I take for granted," Simons said.

There are more than 300 students enrolled in several programs at the school.