>U Mom Knows Best: How To Recognize Early Signs of Autism: Tips for Moms

How To Recognize Early Signs of Autism: Tips for Moms

 


Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) affects about one in 36 children in the United States. Most children are diagnosed between the ages of three and five, but the first signs of autism can appear much earlier. 

 Catching these early indicators can make a world of difference in childhood development. From delayed communication to repetitive behaviors, understanding the signs empowers moms like you to act quickly. In this article, we’ll walk you through the early signs of autism and how to help your child thrive with the right support.

6 Early Signs of Autism

 If you think your child may have autism, it’s helpful to know exactly what you’re looking for. That way, you can be empowered to advocate for your child and support them in the ways they need it most. Read on for six early signs of autism.

1. Delayed Communication Skills

 Every child develops on their own timeline, but if communication milestones seem delayed and other signs of autism are present, you may want to talk to your child’s doctor. For some children, speaking might take a little longer, or they may find it difficult to use words to express their thoughts and feelings. 

 This can present in different ways depending on the child’s age. For example, babies or toddlers may not babble, coo, or wave as much. Preschoolers might not yet use simple words, point to objects, or engage in back-and-forth conversations. 

2. Lack of Social Interest

 Younger children with autism may not seem as interested in social interactions, which you’ll notice if you watch how they play with others. They might avoid making eye contact or have difficulty responding when their name is called. Some children may prefer to play by themselves rather than join a group or share a toy. 

 Other children may have a hard time responding to social cues. You may notice your child doesn’t return behaviors like smiling and waving, or if they do, they may seem to struggle with their response.

3. Repetitive Behaviors

 Repetitive behaviors are one of the early signs of autism that is easier to spot. This might include actions like stimming, repeating certain movements, or lining up toys in a specific order. 

 Although most children thrive on routines, children with autism may develop strong preferences for specific routines and may become upset if these routines are interrupted. For instance, if you skip reading books before bedtime or make any other changes to a routine, a child may protest. These behaviors can be a way for children to feel safe and in control.

4. Unusual Sensory Behaviors

 Sensory reactions can look different for children with autism. When looking for early signs of autism, keep an eye out for overreactions and underreactions to sensory input.

 For example, a child might become distressed by loud noises or bright lights, or they might not react to pain or certain textures the way other children do. Some children might seek out specific sensory experiences, like spinning or touching objects repeatedly. All children seek out sensory input to some degree, but sensory-seeking behaviors are more commonly associated with autism.

5. Delayed or Absent Imitation

 Imitation helps young children learn by copying actions and behaviors, which is why it’s such a major part of development. For children with autism, delayed or absent imitation can be an early sign. This means they may not copy actions like waving goodbye, clapping, or playing pretend games with others. 

 Imitation is key to social development and peer-to-peer communication, so if a child isn’t imitating actions or sounds by a certain age, it’s definitely something to pay attention to. Babies normally begin imitating sounds somewhere between six and nine months. By two years old, many children imitate their peers more frequently.

6. Delayed Motor Skills

 Motor skills, both fine (like grasping objects) and gross (like running or climbing), are foundational for a child’s development. That said, some children with autism may show delays in these areas. 

 They might have trouble with activities like stacking blocks, holding a pencil, or coordinating their movements during play. While some motor delays are part of normal development, families can look out for consistent or significant delays in motor skills. 

How Can You Recognize Autism Early?

 Recognizing autism early can help you develop strategies to support your child’s development and help your child develop the skills they need to thrive. By staying informed and proactively looking for signs, you can ensure your child receives early intervention if they need it.

To better identify early signs of autism, take the following steps:

   + Attend scheduled check-ups: Regular visits with your pediatrician can help you stay on top of milestones and early signs. Voice any concerns you have at each appointment.

  + Be aware of developmental milestones: Watch for delays in speech, social skills, and motor abilities.

  + Stay educated: Learn about autism and developmental stages so you can know the signs to look for. Reading articles like this one is the first step!

What To Do if Your Child Has Autism

 If you suspect your child may have autism, talk to a professional. Start by talking to your pediatrician or a Board Certified Behavioral Analyst (BCBA). These professionals can make an assessment and help you best support your child’s development. They may also have suggestions for specialists who can make a diagnosis. 

 At the same time, remember that you are your child’s biggest advocate. Speak up for their needs, ask questions, and make sure they get the support they need. Trust your instincts as a parent, and hopefully, you’ll quickly find the resources that will empower both you and your child.

The Bottom Line

 If you think your child may have autism, identifying it early is the key to their success. Early signs of autism can include delayed skills such as communication, imitation, and motor development, along with behaviors like repetitive actions and unusual sensory responses. If you see any of these signs, talk to your pediatrician or a BCBA for advice and support.

Brad Zelinger is the founder and CEO of Stride Autism Centers.

Sources:

Data and Statistics on Autism Spectrum Disorder | CDC 

When do children usually show symptoms of autism? | NICHD 

Age-Appropriate Speech and Language Milestones | Stanford Medicine Children's Health

The Importance of Schedules and Routines | ECLKC

Baby Language Milestones 0 to 12 months: Cooing, Laughing, and More | Healthline

What Is Stimming? | Cleveland Clinic


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