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We encourage all families to review this information to help increase awareness and understanding of autism. We encourage everyone to celebrate the differences in all children as they grow. Thank you for reading.
Early Signs of Autism
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder that is characterized by significant and persistent deficits in social communication and social interaction and restricted, repetitive patterns of behavior, interests, and activities.
These difficulties must present in early childhood, but in more mild cases may not be recognized until later in life. While some individuals with ASD have significant behavioral challenges, autism itself is not a behavioral disorder and behavioral problems are not part of the diagnostic criteria for autism.
Early Signs of ASD
Below are some common red flag signs for autism spectrum disorder:
- Not responding to their name by 12 months of age
- Not pointing at objects to show interest by 14 months (example: (pointing at an airplane flying over)
- Not playing “pretend” games by 18 months (example: “feeding” a doll)
- Avoiding eye contact
- Having delayed speech and language skills
- Only interacts with others to achieve a desired goal or met their own needs
- Having flat or inappropriate facial expressions
- Avoids or resists physical contact
- Is not comforted by others during distress
- Get upset by minor changes
- Having obsessive interests
- Flap their hands, rock their body, or spin in circles
- Having unusual reactions to the way things sound, smell, taste, look or feel
- Repeats words/phrases over and over (echolalia)
Screening for ASD
Often the initial sign of autism is a developmental delay, most commonly noted in the expressive and receptive language development of a child which can be noted at 18-30 months of age and in some cases even earlier. In accordance with national recommendations, the primary care providers at PHCA screen for autism and developmental delays at the 18, 24, and 30-month well-child checks with the M-CHAT and ASQ.
If your child has a positive screen, it can be a worrisome moment as a parent, but it does not necessarily mean your child has autism. However, the possibility and potential need for further evaluation should be discussed as soon as possible with your provider. Early diagnosis is essential in ensuring your child receives appropriate services as soon as possible.
While there is no “cure” for autism, early intervention with intensive therapies is extremely important and has been shown in numerous studies to improve developmental outcomes, school readiness, language development, and even cognitive skills.
If you have concerns about autism spectrum disorder in your child, speak to your primary care physician as soon as possible.
The Developmental Pediatrics team at PHCA is happy to work with you to ensure your child is getting the most complete care possible.
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