As a first-time parent, you may not know what to expect. Every child is different, and developmental milestones can vary. However, if you suspect that your child may have autism, there are some key things you can do right now to get them the help they need.

 

One of the most important things you can do as a parent or caregiver is to learn the early signs of autism and become familiar with the typical developmental milestones that your child should be reaching.

How to Recognize Autism Symptoms

Learning about common autism symptoms can help you figure out if your child needs autism screening. Typical autism symptoms include:

Early Signs of Autism in Infancy and Toddler Years

 

• Developmental delays in many areas of the early childhood developmental milestones
• Does not begin baby talk by 12 months
• Infants and toddlers may not point or grab things
• Resists being held or cuddled
• Has no interest in other babies
• Frequent tantrums

Signs of Autism in Children

 

• Limited to no speech
• Repeats words out of context (echolalia)
• Repetitive or obsessive behaviours such as flapping hands, rocking or licking objects
• Has no interest in playing with other children
• No pretend play
• Unusual play such as spinning objects for hours, lining up objects or playing with strange objects
• Sensory issues such unusual reactions to certain noises, tastes or situations
• Problems with body awareness such as an inappropriate response to pain

What to Do If You Suspect Your Child Has Autism

If you suspect your child has autism, here are some tips you can use to ensure that your child lives their best life.

• Seek a Professional Evaluation. If you think your child has autism, it’s good to act quickly and make an appointment with a professional. A medical professional can assess your child and determine if they meet the criteria for an autism diagnosis. It’s OK to ask for a second, or even third, opinion from another professional.
• Prepare for Early Intervention. Early intervention is the best way to support autistic children’s learning, development and wellbeing. It can also help children develop the skills they need to take part in everyday activities. Sometimes children who get early intervention need less or no support as they get older.
• Engage in Applied Behaviour Analysis. ABA therapy is the most widely accepted and evidence-based intervention for autism. There are many strong proponents of ABA, citing its empirical base. ABA practitioners believe that behaviour is a function of an environment. By manipulating the environment around a child, we can provide the structure to help them learn and develop new skills.
• Support Your Child’s Learning and Development at Home. As a parent, you play an important role in your child’s development. There are many things you can do at home to support their learning. For example, you can provide a structure and routine for the day, create a calm and nurturing environment, and engage in playful activities that encourage learning.
• Join Support Groups. You can find support groups and other resources to connect with other parents raising children with autism. Local autism support groups can help you pursue a diagnosis and learn more about autism. Support groups also provide a place for you to share your feelings with other people who have shared a similar experience.

 

If you suspect your child has autism, don’t wait to get them help. Recent research confirms that appropriate screening can determine whether a child is at risk for autism as young as one year. While every child develops differently, we also know that early treatment improves outcomes, often dramatically.

 

If your child is diagnosed with autism, take comfort in the fact that many children are responding to current autism treatments, especially early intervention. Your child can achieve a life of dignity, happiness and fulfilment. There is hope for a bright future.

 

Remember: You can’t change your child, but you can change

Your child is still your child, whether or not he or she has a diagnosis of autism. Show them compassion, understanding, and kindness. Protect them from the evils of the world, but don’t hide them from it. Teach them to love and be loved. Remember that a diagnosis does not make them who they are.

 

Written by: Alex Liau
Published on 29 Jan 2024