Autism Spectrum Disorder can look different in different people. Some symptoms in girls are different than in boys. Some children may show signs as early as a few months while others may show after a few months or a year. The symptoms can vary from very mild to very severe. But the common link would be a difference in the social interaction, language and communication, behaviour and sensory issues in comparison with children who are not on the spectrum (whom we generally term as “normal”).
Most of the children are diagnosed with autism at the age of 2 years. It has been seen that some children begin showing signs from ages 12 months. Early signs have also been detected in children as young as 6 months.
As parents, we need to be alert and aware to spot these early signs.
Every child is special and develops differently. But how do we know which child or if our child has special needs? As parents, we all know that developmental delays are initial ‘red flags’ for any type of disability. While these delays are sometimes easy to notice, some children may not show them. There are many more indicators or ‘red flags’ to watch out for Autism.
Scroll down to read more.
Social Interaction:
- Lack of eye contact (unable to initiate eye contact and/or follow parents gaze).
- Does not respond to his/her name.
- Difficulty or disinterested in playing, sharing, or talking with other people.
- Does not make noises to get your attention.
- Does not to understand other people’s reaction and social cues.
- Prefers to be alone.
- Avoids or rejects physical contact.
- Does not understand emotions (self or others)
Language & Communication:
- Delayed speech and language skills.
- Does not respond to gestures
- Difficulty initiating a conversation with others e.g. unable to ask for help.
- Does not babble.
- Flat, robotic speaking voice, or singsong voice.
- Echolalia (repeating the same phrase/word over and over).
- Limited vocabulary (use very few sounds and words).
- Problems with pronouns (saying “you” instead of “I,” for example).
- Does not use or seldom uses common gestures (like pointing or waving).
- Inability to stay on topic when talking or answering questions.
- Does not recognize sarcasm or joking.
Behaviour:
- Repetitive behaviours like rocking back and forth, jumping, flapping hands or twirling.
- A constant need for motion, unable to sit still.
- Shows hyperactive behaviour.
- Fixations on certain activities or objects (like rotating fan on the ceiling or wheels of a car etc.).
- Does not like changes in routines or rituals.
- Tantrums and meltdowns last longer than expected.
- Impulsiveness (acting without thinking).
- Shows aggressive behaviour (with self- headbanging, objects- throwing, tearing, ripping and others- parents, pets or any other person).
- Short attention span.
- Irregularities when playing with toys (plays with toys in an unusual way e.g. lining them up or playing with specific part of a toy than the entire toy).
- Does not take part in “make-believe” play or imitate others behaviours and expressions
Sensory
- Fussy eating habits (does not like all textures or smells)
- Lacks motor coordination, clumsiness
- Show extreme sensitivity to touch, light, and sound.
- Does not like to be held, cuddled or comforted.
- Does not like changing clothes.
- Does not like bathing.
- Unable to tolerate loud noises.
We need to start as early as possible on the traits than waiting for the diagnosis. Some studies have proven that early detection of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) has shown to “improve I.Q., language ability and social interactions. It has also been proven that early diagnosis and early intervention has helped to mainstream children with traits in kindergarten.
Remember, the earlier the treatment for Autism, the more likely it is to be effective.
Image source: wired.com
Janani S Koushik
KSP Team
Dr Manjari Rao
Dr Manjari Rao
Kanishka Pariani
Tanvi Dabholkar
