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Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a developmental disorder that affects communication, behavior, and social interaction. Early detection and intervention are crucial for improving outcomes for children with autism. Parents and caregivers should be aware of the early signs of autism and seek professional evaluation and support as soon as possible.
Warning Signs Which Indicate that Your Child May Have Autism
Here are some of the early signs that your child may have autism.
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Delayed Speech and Language Skills
One of the most common early signs of autism is a delay in speech and language development. Children with autism may:
- Not babble or make meaningful gestures by 12 months.
- Do not say single words by 16 months or two-word phrases by 24 months.
- Lose previously acquired language or social skills.
- Have difficulty starting or maintaining a conversation.
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Limited Eye Contact and Facial Expressions
Children with autism often avoid eye contact and may not use facial expressions to communicate emotions. They might:
- Rarely look at people directly, especially during interactions.
- Seem uninterested in people’s faces.
- Not respond to their name by nine months.
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Lack of Interest in Social Interactions
A child with autism may show little interest in playing or interacting with others. Signs include:
- Preferring to play alone rather than with other children.
- Not engaging in pretend play or imitative play.
- Having difficulty understanding or responding to social cues.
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Repetitive Behaviors and Restricted Interests
Repetitive behaviors and a limited range of interests are hallmark signs of autism. These can manifest as:
- Engaging in repetitive motions such as hand-flapping, rocking, or spinning.
- Insisting on following specific routines or rituals.
- Having intense interests in particular topics or objects, often excluding other activities.
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Sensory Sensitivities
Children with autism often have unusual responses to sensory input. They may be overly sensitive or under-reactive to:
- Sounds, lights, or textures.
- Strong aversions to specific sounds or being touched.
- Unusual interest in sensory aspects of objects (e.g., sniffing or feeling objects unusually).
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Difficulty Understanding Emotions and Social Cues
Understanding and responding to emotions and social cues can be challenging for children with autism. They may:
- Not understanding personal space boundaries.
- Have trouble interpreting facial expressions or body language.
- Show limited empathy or difficulty understanding others’ feelings.
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Inconsistent Response to Social Engagements
Children with autism might show inconsistent responses to social engagements, such as:
- Sometimes, responding to social interactions, but often not.
- Seeming indifferent to others’ attempts to engage with them.
- Showing interest in social interaction but not knowing how to engage appropriately.
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Unusual Reactions to Changes in Routine
Autistic children often have difficulty with changes in routine or environment. Signs include:
- Becoming very upset with minor changes in their environment or daily schedule.
- Insisting on following the same routine every day.
- Struggling to transition from one activity to another.
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Regression of Skills
A significant sign of autism is the loss of previously acquired skills. This regression might include:
- Losing language or social skills that were previously developed.
- Sudden changes in behavior, such as becoming more withdrawn or less communicative.
What to Do If You Notice These Signs
If you observe any of these signs in your child, seeking a professional evaluation is important. Early diagnosis and intervention can make a significant difference in the development and quality of life for children with autism. Steps to take include:
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Consulting a Paediatrician
Share your concerns with your child’s doctor, who can refer you to a therapist in Vancouver for a comprehensive evaluation.
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Seeking a Specialist
Developmental pediatricians, child psychologists, and speech-language pathologists can provide a thorough assessment and diagnosis.
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Early Intervention Programs
Engage in early intervention programs that offer autism therapy and support tailored to the needs of children with autism.
Conclusion
Recognizing the early signs of autism is crucial for getting the support and resources your child needs. While each child develops at their own pace, knowing these signs can help you identify potential concerns early. Remember, early intervention can lead to significant improvements in the lives of children with autism and their families.