Autism Spectrum Disorder
Most children are social and interactive individuals, who want and need contact with others to thrive but sometimes the child shows atypical social behavior. The child may seem to live in their own world, engage in repetitive routines and peculiar and rigid behaviors, have problems in communication, and lack social awareness or an interest in others.
Autism spectrum disorder is usually identified by the time a child is 30 months old, often when parents are concerned with certain behaviors in their child. As it is a neurobiological disorder, no single cause has been identified.
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Lack of smiling by six months of age
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Poor back-and-forth sharing of sounds, smiles, or facial expressions by nine months
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Not responding when their name is called
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No babbling, pointing, reaching, or waving by 12 months
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No single words by 16 months
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No two-word phrases by 24 months
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Regression in development
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Any loss of previously acquired communication and social skills, usually between 24-36 months
Symptoms can include:
Autism in preschool-age children is characterized by withdrawn behavior, lack of reciprocation to other people, and a preference for odd or ritualistic behaviors. The severity of autism can vary widely, and children with autism require specialized evaluation, language services, and behavioral and educational programs, and may benefit from medication. Child and adolescent mental health professionals can assist with the diagnosis and help design and implement an appropriate treatment plan to address the symptoms and behaviors of autism. While there is no cure for autism, early specialized treatment can have a positive impact on a child’s development and reduce disruptive behaviors and symptoms.