Is My Child Showing Symptoms of Autism?

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a developmental disorder that affects communication, behaviour, and social interaction. If recognised early, it can be supported and managed with care to improve the quality of your child’s adult life by a great margin. Autism is in no way an obstacle to a child’s experiences in life, especially when managed and treated with careful consideration. That being said, here are some signs that you could look out for to detect a possibility and take your child to a specialist:

#1 Social Interaction

One of the earliest signs of autism is difficulty with social interaction. Infants and toddlers with autism might avoid eye contact, seem uninterested in playing with others, or have trouble understanding social cues.

#2 Communication Skills

Delays in speech and language development are common indicators of autism. Children with autism may have trouble starting or maintaining conversations and might use repetitive language.

#3 Behavioral Patterns

Children with autism often exhibit repetitive behaviours such as hand-flapping, rocking, or lining up toys. They might become intensely focused on specific objects or activities and have difficulty with changes in routine.

#4 Developmental Milestones

Parents should monitor their child’s achievement of developmental milestones. While variations are normal, significant delays in areas like motor skills, play skills, and social-emotional development can be red flags for autism.

If you notice any of these signs, consult a child psychologist or a developmental specialist for a comprehensive evaluation. Early detection and intervention are crucial in providing children with autism the support they need to thrive and reach their full potential.