st never developed that reciprocal smile," Kelly Samson said. "He would see part of my face -- but he would never see me."
Matthew was diagnosed at 18 months and began therapy four months ago. His parents have already noticed a difference.
Now 2, Matthew notices his surrounding more clearly, makes eye contact and communicates, they said.
Whether environment and pollution, genetics, or a combination, also contributes to New Jersey's higher-than-average autism rates has yet to be determined, experts say.
"There's been a lot of debate why New Jersey's at the top," said Roger Kurlan, director of the movement-disorders program at Overlook Medical Center, who is researching whether autism is hereditary. "Virtually every human disease is a combination of genetics and environmental factors ... Genetics looks to be the most important factor in the development of autism."
Mary O'Dowd, the state health commissioner, said New Jersey has been in the forefront of treatment for autism.
"New Jersey has the some of the best autism resources in the country and has for more than 30 years," she said. "There is great awareness of autism in New Jersey among health professionals, educators and families. New Jersey has one of the best systems in the nation for identifying, diagnosing and caring for children with Autism Spectrum Disorders."
Parents have also been known to move to the state simply for the expertise the medical community here has for autistic children.
Jill Harris, director of the autism program at the Children's Specialized Hospital in Mountainside, said there's also been a change in treatment philosophy.
"We've always actively looked for autism, but I think the tools are getting better, and we're getting wiser about what it looks like," she said.
The Samsons, who bring Matthew to Children's Specialized Hospital, say his treatment is working and they can only hope his progress will continue.
We have no idea what he's going to be doing one year from now, five years from now, or 20 years from now," Kelly Samson said. "We have seen leaps and bounds in his progress, and we're glad we live in New Jersey. We're thankful for every little baby step."