What are the Signs of Autism in Young Child
Many parents of autistic children would say that although they have seen some unusual signs and have ideas that
there is something wrong to their child, it is already too late when they have made an action…
Autism is a mental disorder that could not be predicted nor prevented while the baby is still inside the womb.
It is often diagnosed as after the damage has been done to the child, usually from 3-4 years old. However, the
signs of autism could already be seen between the first and second year of the child. And this is the crucial
period where parents can intervene on the case of their child because although the condition is irreversible, the
effects can be minimize and controlled.
Thus, it is important to know what are the signs evident to child with autism.
The very first sign on autism can be very evident on speech. The child usually utters his first words before or
after his first birthday. However, autistic child could experience language delay. Sometimes, this delay would last
up to his 3rd or 4th birthday. In some cases, child cannot utter any words. But then, it is disappointing to know
that parents would consider language delay normal as was said by their pediatricians where in fact, it is already
the early manifestation of autism.
Another sign that the child has autism is his lack of attention or response to things or other people. A normal
growing child at the age of one would begin to point objects or respond to other people. Normal child would begin
to take interest on object such as toys. However, child with autism finds it hard to focus their attention on
things. They rarely respond on other people’s points. He simply stays on his current state unmindful of what is
happening around him.
As early as 8 to 10 months, a normal child imitates others with their facial movements and sounds. However,
child with autism responds rarely on this. He seems to develop a world of his own and remains on this world
unmindful of the reality.
Usually, babies respond to their names during the first few months. They also respond on the voices of familiar
people with looks and smiles. If you notice that your child does not respond on his name or would not respond the
way normal babies do, then you can suspect that he has autism.
The child with autism develops a pattern of activity or likings on a certain things. And he simply could not
detach himself from this pattern that when you remove it to him, he often responds violently. The violent reaction
would be endless crying and tantrums.
Poor or uneven development of motor skill is another sign that your child has autism. Difficulty in walking
straight and lack of eye and body coordination are some of the manifestations.
Another sign of a child with autism is the unusual response to too many sensory stimuli. This is sometimes
revealed when the child gets restless when within the crowd. He does not want too many people surrounding him. Too
much noise would be unbearable for him. Crying is the usual effect of this.
Teens Coping With Asperger's Syndrome
Asperger's Syndrome in Laymens Terms
Seeing these signs of autism, you as parents must take him to doctors such as pediatric psychologist,
occupational therapist, developmental pediatrician, speech or language pathologist,
Aspergers Checklist
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