Autism meaning states a condition where the brain development in infants or toddlers is impacted such that it becomes difficult to analyse, perceive, and interpret things. It also leads to challenges in social interaction and communication. This condition encompasses restricted and repetitive patterns of behaviour. The concept of “spectrum” highlights the varied symptoms and their effects on the children suffering from it.
Before moving ahead to read about the early signs of autism in children, let’s understand what are the reasons behind this condition, symptoms, and effective autism spectrum disorder treatment available.
What are the Reasons for Autism?
Every infant or toddler develops at their own pace, similarly, autism is also characterised differently for each individual. The reasons for autism are given below:
- Hereditary
- Children born to old parents
- Intoxication through water pollution or air pollution
- Chromosomal defects such as Fragile X syndrome
- Decreased oxygen supply during the time of birth
Early Signs of Autism in Children – Toddler and Above
Autism is usually detected at a very early stage. The child would find it difficult when interacting or communicating socially. There are many autism symptoms to look out for, such as:
- Kids with the symptom of autism do not respond when called.
- Autism spectrum disorder symptoms show in a few children, when a child is reluctant to engage in cuddling or being held and often secludes themselves.
- Exhibits limited eye contact /rare facial expressions
- Does not communicate verbally, delays speech development,
- Kids with autism struggle to initiate discussions, often only engaging to ask for things or identify objects.
- Communicates with an unusual cadence or melody,
- Repeats words or phrases exactly but lacks comprehension of their application.
- Seems to struggle with the basic grasping of verbal communication.
Early Signs of Autism in Children – Infants
Autism doesn’t change a baby’s physical appearance. The condition affects how babies communicate and relate to the world around them. If you notice any of these developmental differences, it’s essential to talk with your paediatrician or healthcare professional about them.
A few common signs to analyse the impact of autism are :-
Problem in maintaining eye contact
At a very early age, babies learn to connect via the eyes. By 2 months, infants can normally locate faces and make eye contact. Kids with this disorder tend to stare at a point without making any connection.
Unable to recognise gestures
Babies/toddlers understand or communicate through hand actions or gestures. It is one of the first ways of expressing that a kid develops. Some autistic children tend to comprehend or respond less to any actions or gestures done towards them, the reason is they have a type of autism which has regressive development.
Unable to respond to name calling
Kids respond quickly when their parents, specifically mother, calls out their name. The process of recognition begins at 6 months, and gradually develops responses to other actions. Kids with this condition are usually non-responsive when being called out. It happens due to their inability to percept and analyse.
Hindrance in facial reaction
Facial expressions are a silent yet powerful means to convey emotions and ideas. That does not inherently suggest that children exhibiting autism signs are feeling fewer emotions; it merely indicates that their facial expressions might not effectively communicate the intensity of their feelings.
Unable to retain skills
The regression of previously acquired skills and abilities in a young child may indicate the possibility of autism. This scenario observed in a few autistic kids can present a significant challenge for parents to witness during autism treatment.
Autism Spectrum Treatments
Treatment for autism includes various friendly methods that assist in helping children improve their skills and daily functioning. It is important to apply that treatment which may prove effective for achieving the best outcomes for a child with autism. Based on your child’s autism symptoms, one or more of these treatments might be beneficial:
- Cognitive behavioural therapy
- Collaborative focus intervention
- Therapies for managing behaviour
- Training for social skills
- Communication support
- Rehabilitation (Combination of speech, occupational and physical therapy)
- occupational therapy treatment
- learning strategies
- dietary intervention
Conclusion
While there is no definitive ‘cure’ for autism, numerous therapies have been extensively studied and shown to provide significant benefits. These therapies can assist your child in enhancing their abilities, reducing anxiety, and ultimately fostering a greater sense of well-being. As you monitor your child’s development and pursue autism treatments, it is crucial to have an in-depth understanding of what is autism so that you can prioritise your child’s well-being and health.