Autism Signs & Diagnosis in Children: What You Need to Know

 Autism is a developmental disorder that affects how a person communicates and interacts with others.

 It can also cause problems with sensory processing. Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is the term used to describe a range of symptoms that can occur in people with autism. If you are concerned about your child, it is important to know the signs of autism and get an accurate diagnosis as soon as possible. In this article, we will discuss the signs and symptoms of autism in children, as well as the diagnostic process.

1) Lack of Eye Contact

One of the most common signs of autism is a lack of eye contact. Many children with autism will avoid making eye contact with others, and will instead focus on objects or stare off into space. This can be a difficult behavior to change, as it is often seen as a sign of disinterest or hostility. However, making eye contact is important for social development, so it is important to find ways to encourage your child to look at you when you are talking to them.

One way to do this is by encouraging eye contact by using visual aids during a conversation. For example, you could show pictures or videos while talking to your child, or use flashcards with images and words. This will help keep their attention focused on what you are saying. 

2) Repetitive Gestures

Many children with autism will exhibit repetitive gestures, such as hand flapping, rocking back and forth, or spinning around. These behaviors are often seen as a way to self-soothe or calm down. They can also be a way for children to communicate their needs or preferences.

If your child is exhibiting repetitive gestures, it is important to understand why they are doing it. Try to figure out what the gesture means to your child and see if there is a way to provide them with what they need. You may also want to talk to your doctor about possible interventions that can help reduce these behaviors.

3) Trouble With Speech and Language

Children with autism often have trouble with speech and language. In fact, shocking autism statistics you should be aware of show that around 40% of children with ASD are non-verbal.  They may have difficulty understanding what is being said to them and using language appropriately.

It is important to seek help from a speech therapist if you are concerned about your child’s verbal abilities. A speech therapist can help find ways to improve your child’s communication skills, as well as teach them alternative forms of communication such as sign language, assistive technology, and picture exchange systems. 

4) Difficulty With Social Interaction

It can be difficult for children with autism to interact with others. This is often due to the fact that they have trouble understanding social cues and body language. 

Children with autism may not understand that when someone looks away, they are no longer interested in the conversation. They may also misinterpret facial expressions or gestures, which can lead to misunderstandings and social awkwardness. 

In addition, children with autism may not know how to respond to social situations. They may not know what is expected of them, or they may not know how to initiate or maintain a conversation.  This can be very frustrating for both the child and the people around them. It is important to find ways to help your child learn appropriate social skills. There are many programs and therapies available that can help teach these skills. With patience and practice, your child will learn how to successfully interact with others.

5) A Lack Of Interest in Organized Play

In addition to social interactions, children with autism may also lack interest in playing with toys or engaging in activities like drawing or building. Children typically enjoy these activities, so it can be concerning if your child does not show any interest.

It is important to remember that each child has their own preferences and interests. Try different activities with your child to see what they respond to. It may also be helpful to talk to your doctor about possible interventions that can help your child develop a more engaged interest in play. 

6) High or Low Sensitivity 

Many children with autism have heightened or decreased sensitivity to sensory stimuli. This can be very confusing and overwhelming for them. For example, a child with autism may be hypersensitive to sound and be overwhelmed by the noise of a busy street. They may also find it difficult to tolerate certain textures or fabrics. On the other hand, a child with autism may be under-sensitive to touch and not feel pain when they are injured.

It is important to understand your child’s individual sensitivities and help them learn how to cope with them. There are many strategies that can help, such as using noise-canceling headphones for children who are hypersensitive to sound, or padding hard surfaces for children who are under-sensitive to touch. 

The Process of Diagnosis

It can be difficult to determine if a child has autism. In order to do so, a team of specialists will typically evaluate a child to see if they meet the criteria for an autism diagnosis. There are several signs and symptoms of autism that doctors look for. These include difficulty with speech and language, social interaction, and play. Children with autism may also have heightened or decreased sensitivity to sensory stimuli. 

If a doctor suspects that a child has autism, they will refer the child to a specialist for further evaluation. The specialist will ask for the parents’ and teachers’ observations of the child, as well as administer various tests to measure the child’s skills and abilities. 

If the child meets the criteria for an autism diagnosis, the specialist will provide recommendations for treatment and interventions. With early diagnosis and treatment, many children with autism can make significant progress in their development.

Autism is a complex disorder that affects each child differently. While some children exhibit all of the signs and symptoms of autism, others only show a few. It can be difficult to determine if a child has autism, as it requires the evaluation of many different areas of their development. 

If you are concerned that your child may have autism, it is important to seek out professional help. There are many programs and therapies available that can help your child progress in their development. With early diagnosis and treatment, most children with autism can make significant progress.