The following are core signs, symptoms, and behaviors of children affected by autism:
-
Impaired Social Communication Skills
Children with autism have difficulty with …
- Responding to their name (appears deaf)
- Sharing interests
- Making eye contact
- Having warm or joyful expressions
- Searching for objects that are hidden
- Pointing at something of interest
- Interacting with peers and/or family (may desire to be alone)
-
Impaired Communication Skills
Children with autism often do not …
- Babble or coo by 12 months
- Use gestures or any words by 12 months
- Use single words by 16 months
- Use two-word phrases by 24 months
- Use typical speech (normal rhythm, pitch, volume)
-
Repetitive or Restricted Behaviors
Children with autism may exhibit behaviors like …
- Focusing on objects or parts of objects (spinning wheels of a car, fan spinning, etc.)
- Making repetitive body movements (hand flapping, spinning, toe walking, rocking, teeth grinding, slapping self)
- Resisting changes in routine
-
Other Behaviors or Concerns
Children with autism may also experience …
- Sensory issues, such as being over or under sensitive to lights, smells, touch, noise, tastes, pressure
- Extreme meltdowns or tantrums
- Sleeping difficulties
"After one year of intervention… children (aged 15-35 months) improved significantly in their verbal ability, and the severity of autism symptoms was reduced."
- Research in "Autism Spectrum Disorders 5" 2011-345-350
Getting Diagnosed With Autism
Research shows that children who receive intensive early treatment services are more likely to have improved long-term outcomes, but the first step to treatment is diagnosis.
Where to Start
Diagnosing children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), particularly very young children who are first learning to communicate with the world around them, can be challenging and complex. Parents may recognize that "something is wrong" but are unable to identify the exact challenges or reasons why.
Take A Developmental Screening Test
The most important thing you can do is to consult a professional if you think a child's behavior is atypical. Answer this set of questions to see if further assessment or evaluation by a pediatrician is needed.
The Leader in ABA Therapy
Centria Autism's ABA Therapists are trained to provide an individualized program for your child based on his/her specific needs. This one-on-one approach lets your child and therapist build an incredible bond, allowing them to reach their maximum potential.
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