Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a developmental condition that affects how a child communicates, interacts with others, and experiences the world. Early intervention is key to supporting children with ASD, and recognizing the early signs can help you get the right resources and support in place. Here’s what you should watch for.
Delayed Speech & Communication Skills:
One of the first signs of autism can be delays in speech development. By the age of 12 months, most babies start babbling and making sounds to communicate. If your child doesn’t make these sounds or has difficulty making eye contact or responding to their name, it may be a red flag. Some children with ASD may have trouble understanding and using verbal and nonverbal cues like gestures or facial expressions.
Limited Social Interaction:
Children with autism often find social interactions challenging. You might notice your child avoiding eye contact, not smiling or responding to others, or not engaging in typical play with peers. They might not show interest in joint attention (looking at something with another person) or playing pretend games.
Repetitive Behaviors & Routines:
Many children with autism engage in repetitive movements, such as hand-flapping, rocking, or spinning objects. They may also insist on following strict routines or have intense interests in specific subjects, like numbers, letters, or certain objects. Any disruption to these routines may lead to distress or frustration.
Sensitivity to Sensory Stimuli:
Children with autism often have heightened or diminished responses to sensory input. They may be overly sensitive to sounds, lights, textures, or smells, or they might not react to pain or temperature changes like other children do. For example, a loud noise may make them cover their ears or cause an emotional meltdown.
Unusual Emotional Responses:
Children on the spectrum might have difficulty managing their emotions, leading to emotional outbursts or extreme reactions to seemingly small events. They may have trouble expressing themselves or understanding the emotions of others.
What Can You Do?
If you notice any of these signs in your child, it’s important to contact a pediatrician or specialist. Early diagnosis and intervention can significantly impact your child’s development. Remember, every child is unique, and not all children with ASD will show the same signs at the same time. Trust your instincts and seek support if needed.
Paying attention to these early indicators can help set your child on a path toward growth and success.
Caring for a child with autism can feel overwhelming for parents. Save time and make the journey easier by downloading the One Autism Health app for FREE.
*results may vary, please consult a professional.
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