Learn the signs of autism
One of the most important things you can do as a parent is to learn the early signs of autism and become familiar with the typical developmental milestones that your child should be reaching.
What are the signs of autism?
The autism diagnosis age and intensity of autism’s early signs vary widely. Some infants show hints in their first months. In others, behaviors become obvious as late as age 2 or 3.
Not all children with autism show all the signs. Many children who don’t have autism show a few.
The following may indicate your child is at risk for an autism spectrum disorder. If your child exhibits any of the following, ask your pediatrician or family doctor for an evaluation right away:
By 6 months
- Few or no big smiles or other warm, joyful and engaging expressions
- Limited or no eye contact
By 9 months
- Little or no back-and-forth sharing of sounds, smiles or other facial expressions
By 12 months
- Little or no babbling
- Little or no back-and-forth gestures such as pointing, showing, reaching or waving
- Little or no response to name
By 16 months
- Very few or no words
By 24 months
- Very few or no meaningful, two-word phrases (not including imitating or repeating)
At any age
- Loss of previously acquired speech, babbling or social skills
- Avoidance of eye contact
- Persistent preference for solitude
- Difficulty understanding other people’s feelings
- Delayed language development
- Persistent repetition of words or phrases (echolalia)
- Resistance to minor changes in routine or surroundings
- Restricted interests
- Repetitive behaviors (flapping, rocking, spinning, etc.)
- Unusual and intense reactions to sounds, smells, tastes, textures, lights and/or colors
It's interesting to learn how early the signs of autism can appear in children, sometimes as young as a few months old. Recognising these signs early on can make a big difference, especially when families seek support from professionals like paediatricians or psychology services. Having that support can help parents understand their child’s behaviour better and guide them through the next steps.
ReplyDelete"I completely agree! Early detection and intervention can significantly impact the long-term outcomes for children with autism. It's crucial for parents to have access to knowledgeable professionals and supportive resources."
DeletePersonal Experience:"We noticed early signs in our son as early as 3 yrs old. We Seek professional help was life-changing. The guidance and support we received helped us understand their needs and develop strategies to support his development."
Thank you for sharing your feedback! Raising awareness about autism and early detection can empower families to seek help sooner. Your contribution to this conversation is much appreciated!"