How to look for signs of autism in a child

Today, the face of autism looks entirely different than it did even a decade ago. Ten years ago, very few children were diagnosed with autism where as today, some reports indicate that as many as 1 in 150 children have some form of autism. This is somewhat alarming but early intervention is key in giving children with autism the very best opportunity to develop and learn to their fullest potential. In this article are some keys that may help you in looking for key signs of autism in a child. I am not a medical doctor by any means, so this is not to diagnose a child. This article is to serve as a guide to your next step which would be to seek professional resources with in your community or resources listed in this article. The spectrum of autism is broad with a wide range of severity. It can be difficult for some parents to see the signs in their own children but this article will give you some hallmark signs of autism to look for as well as steps to take to get the help you need for your child to develop and learn at their fullest potential.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Things You’ll Need:

• This article
• a keen awareness of the child you are observing
• the Internet (is helpful)
• support from someone (or others) who have experience with autism through a child of their own or as a profession
• an open mind and heart

1. The first signs of autism are often noticed when a baby does not reach typical milestones such as eye contact, smiles, then sitting up, crawling, and so on. These are not concrete signs but warning signs that need to be addressed.
2. One of the feature signs of autism is the lack of social interactions.
   
   -Most children with autism even from infancy, may not make eye contact with another person or stare for long periods of time at one object.
   
   - As toddlers, they may become preoccupied with one object or collection and have very little concern for another person.
   
   -They often lack the ability to take social cues such as tone of voice and expressions on your face.
   
   -They may have a hard time developing friendships with children their own age
   
   - They may lack empathy. They may have a hard time understanding another's sadness or pain
3. Another sign of autism is verbal communication.
   
   -Often repeating words over and over
   -Trouble starting a conversation
   -Trouble understanding another person's point of view
   -Repeating the same idea over and over
   -Trouble engaging in a conversation
4. Finally, repeated behavior or extreme focus on one object or one interest.
   
   - The child often has a narrow interest in only one thing which is extreme.
   -The child possible lines things up perfectly according to shape or size perfectly and repeatedly
   -The child is often preoccupied with his interests and takes no interest in anything or anyone else around him.

Tips & Warnings

• If your child or a child you know displays any of these symptoms, please talk with their doctor about your concerns. There are a lot of good resources available and there is hope for each child.
• Do not delay in talking with someone because you think "it will pass" or "they will grow out of it". The early intervention is the key to the best possible options for each child to be able to achieve their highest potential.