doctor asses child for signs of autismAutism in kids may present itself in very mild ways. But about a third of all parents of kids with autism noticed that something was not right before their child’s first birthday. Autism 101 entails that the signs of autism in kids appear very early. Knowing these signs makes a big difference in terms of getting your child the help they need. But most people make the mistake of assuming that some of the signs are normal. This isn’t the case and identifying some of the signs of autism in kids is very important. This is because early intervention measures are very effective at helping your child overcome many of the developmental barriers created by autism.

What Are Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASDs)?

Autism spectrum disorders are a group of developmental disabilities that mainly affect the functions of the brain. It is still not clear what causes ASDs. They are a spectrum because they consist of many disorders with varying symptoms. For instance, some disorders impair language skills while others enhance various abilities such as problem-solving skills. 

Some of the most common disorders include Asperger Syndrome, pervasive developmental disorder, and autistic disorder. The onset of autism symptoms in kids occurs after 1 or 2 years. During this time, the child may lose various skills such as forming simple words. The symptoms of ASDs vary widely. This makes it difficult to note which symptoms are an indication of a more serious underlying condition and those that are not. 

But the following autism symptoms in kids are very common:

  • Inability to effectively communicate either through verbal or non-verbal means
  • Difficulty socializing or relating with others
  • Unusual behavior and inability to express what they think
  • Delays in very basic developmental areas such as learning how to talk

These signs are very serious and you shouldn’t wait for your child to get older for you to get them help. Early intervention may equip your child with autism social skills. It will also allow them to learn how to overcome many of the challenges they will experience. Autism has no cure which means that treatment is the best way to help your child.

How You Can Observe the Signs of Autism in Kids

As a parent, you know your child better than anyone else in the world. This puts you in a unique position to identify some signs that things aren’t okay. Many pediatricians may not determine whether or not a child has autism based on a simple consult. This means you have to be vigilant and observe anything that seems out of the ordinary. 

The best way to observe any signs o autism in kids is to monitor their development. Make sure that your child is hitting every milestone on time. If anything seems amiss, don’t accept the notion of waiting to see if things will turn out okay. Take action if concerned about your child. 

Some of the signs of autism in kids you should be on the lookout for include:

  • Your child doesn’t make eye contact with you or anyone else
  • Inappropriate facial expressions
  • Doesn’t respond to various stimuli such as when you call their name
  • Doesn’t show any interest and doesn’t play with peers
  • No smile and may not even have developed ‘baby talk’ that is babbling
  • Echolalia that is repeating certain phrases or words 
  • Unusual reactions to various things in the immediate environment such as how things smell or look

Boys are at a higher risk of suffering from the autistic condition than girls. But both genders may present different symptoms. Some kids may even appear to cope better than others. Autism treatment for kids is very effective and each program effectively addresses specific needs. 

Get Help if Notice Any Sign of Autism in Kids

There is nothing more devastating than receiving the news that your child is autistic. But that shouldn’t discourage you because many treatment programs are now available. They not only help your child overcome any barrier, but also gives them the tools they need to thrive. If you identify any of the signs of autism in kids, seek help today.