Early Signs of Autism Every Parent Should Know

We know parenting is wonderful with plenty of learning mixed with happiness and obstacles. There are good days and bad days. We all want the best for our children, and sometimes that might mean professional help. Occasionally we might come across somewhat unexplained behavior. You may hear the phrase ‘autism spectrum’ for your child. But do not let that scare you. We are here to shed some light on what being on the spectrum looks like.

Before we start talking about autism, we need to understand autism is not an illness. It is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects an individual’s interactions with others. To help you understand what autism is, we have compiled some important signs for you. You may see some of these signs in your child, but only an expert can diagnose if your child really is on the spectrum. You should go for a professional assessment, in case your child has any of these symptoms.

You’re not alone if you have questions about autism and have observed some possible symptoms in your child. We are here to guide and support you.

What is Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)?

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a developmental condition that affects a person’s communication, social and behavioral skills as well as their interactions with their surroundings. It’s a spectrum, which means people with an autism spectrum diagnosis have a wide range of abilities and challenges. 

According to The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a developmental disability caused by differences in the brain. Some people with ASD have a known difference, such as a genetic condition. Other causes are not yet known. Scientists believe there are multiple causes of ASD that act together to change the most common ways people develop. 

According to The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) about 2.8% of 8-year-olds have ASD, that’s roughly around 1 in 36 children. This number is on the rise, but that does not indicate whether it is an actual increase in the number of new cases reported or just a better diagnosis of already existing cases. 

Fun Fact About Autism

Did you know Albert Einstein, Charles Darwin, Emily Dickinson and Sir Isaac Newton all had autism diagnoses?  There are so many other famous people who are on the spectrum, let’s not forget Tim Burton, Anthony Hopkins, Greta Thunberg and Bill Gates. Even the famous Michelangelo probably had an ASD diagnosis. ASD did not stop these people from achieving more than most of us.

Early Signs: What Should You Look For? 

The first thing we should remember is that every child develops at their own pace. No two individuals are alike. Still, some developmental milestones are usually achieved within specific age ranges. It’s worth paying attention if your child isn’t reaching their milestones. You need to keep an eye out for any unexplained behaviors. 

Some typical symptoms linked with ASD include these: 

Social Interaction: Early Signs

Babies and small children commonly make eye contact with their caregivers. A child with an autism diagnosis may avoid eye contact altogether or just make quick, momentary eye contact.

Although every baby is unique, most will smile back when you smile at them. Children with an autism diagnosis may not return smiles or other happy gestures.

Conversations are a two way road where you exchange thoughts back and forth. Children with an ASD diagnosis may find this difficult, they could seem indifferent or unresponsive.

While some children naturally enjoy autonomous play, children with an autism diagnosis may regularly choose to play alone and exhibit little enthusiasm for playing with others.

For kids on the autism spectrum, facial expressions, body language, and the tone of your voice can be confusing. They may not be able to tell if someone is sarcastic or funny.

Children may find it difficult to share or take turns in social situations.

Communication: Early Signs

One of the earliest signs is a notable speech delay. Children with ASD diagnosis may have a restricted vocabulary or struggle to build sentences.

Sometimes a child begins to acquire language skills and then abruptly stops or loses those skills. This can be a sign of ASD.

Children with an autism spectrum diagnosis may have odd speech patterns, including monotone voice, repeating phrases (echolalia), or using intonation.

Gestures like pointing, waving, or nodding are also an important part of communication. Children with an autism spectrum diagnosis might find it difficult to grasp or apply these gestures.

Similarly, they also may find it difficult to understand nonverbal communication such as body language, facial expression, etc.

Behavioral: Early Signs

Children with an ASD diagnosis may engage in repetitive motions including hand-flapping, rocking, or spinning.

You might find them deeply focused on particular objects or subjects.

Children on the spectrum may either be overly sensitive or under-sensitive to sensory inputs like noise, lighting, textures, or smells. This can result in a meltdown or avoidance of certain environments.

Changing daily routines or usual environments may upset children, which could lead to a meltdown. They could find transitions challenging and would like things to remain the same.

Some children may refuse to try new foods and have very limited food preferences.

Debunking Myths

There was a time when some people believed vaccines were a cause of autism. But this theory has been rejected by researchers. Vaccines do not cause autism. Scientists who have studied ASD have debunked this myth.

What are the Causes Of Autism? 

Although the exact origin of autism is still unknown, studies point to a mix of environmental and genetic elements. Both are likely to be factors that contribute to autism. 

Genetics:

Studies suggest that genes probably play a role in autism. Though several genes have been identified, there isn’t an autism gene that causes this condition.

Environment: 

Though more research is needed in this area, environmental elements like exposure to toxins during pregnancy may also play a significant role in a baby’s brain development.

Brain Development: 

People who are on the autism spectrum have shown differences in brain structure, neural pathways, and operations. 

Next Steps:

Even though many of these signs may occur at one stage or another during a child’s development, if you have observed more than one of these signs, it is advisable to seek professional advice. Here is what you can do:

Speak with your pediatrician

Your pediatrician is the first person you should turn to. They can evaluate your child’s development according to their age. If necessary, they will refer you to experts who can evaluate your child further.

Get a Professional Review

A team of experts, including developmental pediatricians, psychologists, and occupational, physical, and speech therapists, can provide a comprehensive assessment of your child. They will help you find out whether your child has an autism diagnosis.

Early Intervention is Crucial

Early intervention programs have a big impact on the life of children with autism diagnoses. These programs can enable children to realize their full potential and acquire developmentally appropriate skills.

Engage with Support Groups: 

It can be beneficial to network with other parents of children diagnosed with ASD. Support groups give important information and tools as well as a feeling of community.

Remember, your family is not alone. 

It’s natural to feel anxious or overwhelmed if you feel your child is struggling. However, you are not alone. Many families have had similar experiences. There are many tools available to help tackle potential challenges. Your child’s greatest advocate is you; with the correct support, they can flourish and reach their potential. You’ve got this!