According to theAutism Navigator, the signs of autism are usually seen in early childhood.
While the signs and symptoms of autism vary from child to child, I spoke withDr.
That said, these are some signs to watch for.
and that it’s true that it doesn’t always mean a child has autism.
“Many kids develop speech in some form other another.
Some develop first words and don’t get to phrases.
Some go from no babbling straight to phrases.
It’s a wide range what [speech delay] is.
Early on, it’s usually a kid who is not speaking that we see sooner.”
According to Dr. Soorya, language isn’t the only way children communicate.
“There are subtle things kids do to communicate from an early age,” she said.
“They use gestures like putting their hand out, waving, blowing a kiss.”
That’s a really important skillset too.
Kids learn through watching, learning, and practicing their own way of doing it."
“Thomas the Train used to be a big one,” said Dr. Soorya.
“Lining up Thomas, reenacting lines from the movie, carrying around the train.
Then they would have a hard time moving on to other trains or other vehicles.”
“It grows from a little interest to all encompassing.
When you have a go at move on from there it becomes a struggle.
The same goes for showing an interest in other kids.
“I’ve seen typically developing kids who get really fascinated with turning a light switch on and off.
Those kids can easily move on to something else.”
Dr. Soorya said that it’s important to look at a child in terms of expected development.
When do they do it?”
Even if your child is displaying several of these signs, that doesn’t necessarily mean it is autism.
“Nothing is diagnostic of autism for sure.
We’re talking about a very broad spectrum,” she said.
“Do the in-depth screening questionnaires,” Dr. Soorya said.
So if you have concerns and your pediatrician isn’t giving the MCHAT, ask for it.
If you have questions or concerns about these signs or others, always ask your doctor.
