Signs of Autism
What are the Signs of Autism?
Learn how to recognize the potential signs of autism in your child.
Early Behavior and Communication Challenges to Look for in Babies and Toddlers
The sound of the first cry. The first time the eyes blink open. The first tooth that pokes through. The first bite of food (more than likely followed by the first spit of food). The first word spoken aloud. Those first steps.
Early identification of autism and other delays is key when it comes to your kiddo’s overall development. Throughout your child’s first 15-24 months, here are a few things to watch:
- An absence of smiles or avoidance of eye contact
- Lack of communication skills
- Preference of alone time over playing with other children
- Negative behaviors sparked by change in route or routine
- Sensory issues to lights, sounds, smells, textures, and tastes
If you’ve read through these early signs and are still interested in learning more about a diagnostic analysis, please fill out this form or reach out to your pediatrician for a referral.
If I notice the signs, how is autism diagnosed?
Though not everyone with autism experiences the same challenges, they are now covered under one diagnosis, autism spectrum disorder. If a child meets the latest criteria the DSM-5 lays out, then he or she is considered to have ASD. Since the spectrum of symptoms is quite wide, once we have the diagnosis, we talk about level of support a child needs.
If you have concerns about your child’s development, the best next step is to schedule an evaluation.