Recognizing Signs of Autism in Early Childhood

The Autism Speaks - Autism Spectrum Disorders Video Glossary is a tool that is useful for families. It is an innovative web-based tool designed to help parents and professionals learn more about the early red flags and diagnostic features of autism spectrum disorders (ASD). www.autismspeaks.ca/video-glossary

If you think your child exhibits a number of the following signs, then speak with your family doctor. If your doctor tells you not to worry but you are still concerned, call 613-737-0871 ext 2293. Early intervention is critical.

From Autism Ontario

Communication

• No babbling by 11 months of age
• No simple gestures by 12 months (e.g. waving bye-bye)
• No single words by 16 months
• No two-word phrases by 24 months (noun + verb, e.g. "baby sleeping")
• No response when name is called, causing concern about hearing
• Loss of any language or social skills at any age

Behavioural

• Odd or repetitive ways of moving fingers or hands
• Oversensitive to certain textures, sounds or lights
• Lack of interest in toys, or plays with them in an unusual way (opening and closing toy parts rather than playing with the toy)
• Compulsions or rituals (has to perform activities in a certain sequence; prone to tantrums if rituals are interrupted)
• Preoccupations with unusual interests, such as light switches
• Unusual fears   

Social

• Rarely makes eye contact when interacting with people
• Does not play peek-a-boo
• Doesn't point to show things that he/she is interested in
• Rarely smiles socially
• More interested in looking at objects than at people's faces
• Prefers to play alone
• Doesn't make attempts to get parent's attention; doesn't follow or look up when someone is pointing at something
• Seems to be "in his/her own world"
• Doesn't respond to parent's attempts to play, even if relaxed
• Avoids or ignores other children who approach them    

"Research indicates...that early intervention in an appropriate educational setting for at least two years during the preschool years can result in significant improvements for many young children with autism spectrum disorders." (Autism Speaks)