What Are the Early Signs of Autism Spectrum Disorder?
Autism, now becoming widely recognised, falls under the spectrum disorder umbrella. Individuals find themselves on different sides of the spectrum depending on the severity of the condition. Diagnosing Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) remains a challenge, as there are no blood tests available yet; it relies on observable features and assessment. In Singapore, the estimated prevalence is 1 in 150 children are affected by ASD.
Recognising the importance of early detection becomes pivotal, offering a pathway to prompt intervention and support. Timely intervention significantly enhances outcomes for individuals on the autism spectrum. In the early stages, signs of autism initiate a “cascading effect on brain development” during the first two years of life. If not identified early, these indicators can result in significant challenges, including difficulties in social, cognitive, and language skills and challenging behaviours.
Keeping these considerations in mind, let’s dive into detail about what the early signs of Autism Spectrum Disorder look like.
What is one of the earliest signs of autism?
Early indicators of autism often manifest in communication patterns. Children with ASD may exhibit delays in speech development or show a limited interest in verbal engagement. Attending to these early cues can provide valuable insights into a child’s developmental trajectory.
It is also crucial to distinguish between a speech and language delay and a communication delay associated with autism.
A speech delay involves difficulties in pronunciation or sound production. On the other hand, language delays manifest when a child lacks a sufficient vocabulary and resorts to alternative forms of communication, like gestures.
In contrast, children with ASD may experience speech delays alongside challenges in following directions, avoiding eye contact, and exhibiting limited social and play skills. Acknowledging these distinctions is pivotal for tailored support and intervention.
At what age does autism begin?
The onset of autism varies, but signs often become apparent within the first two years of life. Early indicators may emerge as early as 12 to 24 months, prompting the need for vigilant observation during these critical developmental stages. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends that healthcare providers screen all children for ASD during their 18- and 24-month well-child checkups.
What are the 10 early signs of autism?
1. Communication Challenges
In communication development, children with ASD may experience babbling or “parroting” by repeating words without complete understanding or even exhibit delayed speech. They might find it challenging to use gestures, avoid pointing to express needs, and sometimes remain unresponsive to their name but react to other sounds. Interestingly, they may refer to themselves as “you” and others as “I.” Navigating conversations–both starting and continuing–can pose unique challenges.
2. Social Interaction Issues
There are challenges in forming peer connections and a limited interest in shared activities or play. The individual may remain unresponsive to a parent’s smile, avoid looking at objects pointed out by parents, and refrain from bringing objects to show them. Additionally, there might be a lack of appropriate facial expressions, difficulty perceiving others’ thoughts or feelings based on facial expressions, and a limited display of concern for others.
3. Repetitive Behaviours
This involves engaging in repeated movements or routines. These actions, known as self-stimulatory behaviours, can include hand flapping, rocking, head-banging, and persistently repeating specific phrases.
4. Sensory Sensitivities
Individuals on the autism spectrum may have heightened or diminished responses to sensory stimuli. It can manifest in various ways, such as being overly sensitive to certain sounds, lights, textures, or smells. Conversely, some individuals may seek intense sensory experiences, like repeatedly touching or smelling objects.
5. Delayed Milestones
Milestones refer to significant achievements in a child’s development, such as walking, talking, or social interactions, typically within a specific age range. In autism, delays in reaching these developmental milestones may become apparent. It includes delayed speech and language skills, difficulties with motor skills like walking, or challenges in social interactions.
6. Lack of Eye Contact
Children on the autism spectrum might avoid making eye contact or struggle to sustain it during interactions. Typically, by 6 to 8 weeks, babies often begin to make eye contact, which increases as they develop. However, it’s important to note that variations exist, and some children may naturally have more or less eye contact than others.
7. Resistance to Change
Children with ASD like routines, order, and rituals, whereby changing or transitioning from one activity to the next may be hard for them.
8. Limited Expressions of Emotion
There are challenges in expressing and understanding emotions using facial expressions, gestures, and tone of voice, as they are usually monotonous.
9. Difficulty in Play
They have unusual and repetitive play patterns or may lack interest in imaginative play.
10. Unusual Attachment to Objects
This refers to displaying intense attachment to specific objects. They can be obsessed with unusual toys, topics, or activities, such as trains, dinosaurs, numbers, patterns, etc.
What are the symptoms of autism in a newborn baby?
Diagnosing autism in newborns is challenging, as symptoms often become more apparent as the child grows. As mentioned, some early signs may include limited eye contact, difficulty with feeding or sleeping patterns, and delayed responses to stimuli. It is essential to observe these symptoms during the infant’s growing months and inform the doctors for early detection and diagnosis.
What signs of autism can parents observe at ages 1 to 3?
Around 12 months, signs of autism may become more noticeable. The child may not look even if you repeatedly call their name.
At about 18 months, a typical child with delayed speech will point, gesture, or use facial expressions, while children with ASD might not attempt to compensate for the delayed speech.
At 2-3 years of age, a typical child would usually bring a picture or toy to show to their parents and share their joy with them. But a child with ASD may get their parents a toy to open but won’t look at their faces or share in the pleasure of playing together.
Observation is key. If you notice persistent challenges in the areas mentioned, it’s advisable to consult with a healthcare professional. Trust your discernment as a parent and seek guidance if you have concerns.
The Importance of ABA Therapy
The ABA (Applied Behavior Analysis) therapy is a well-researched and impactful approach designed to improve specific behaviours by systematically applying behavioural principles. Recognised for its efficiency in supporting ASD individuals and their families, it addresses various behavioural challenges.
ABA therapy enhances communication, social skills, and adaptive learning while reducing behaviours that may impact overall functioning. This approach, characterised by professionalism, motivation, and positive reinforcements, highlights the transformative potential of ABA therapy in empowering individuals to reach their utmost capability and lead fulfilling lives.
At AutismSTEP, we provide ABA Therapy to meet the individual needs of the children facing these challenges. We craft tailored approaches that enhance communication, social skills, and well-being. We dedicate ourselves to helping your child thrive.
Consulting an Early Intervention Center
Contacting your paediatrician is the first step. They can provide referrals to early intervention centres or specialists. Early intervention services can include speech therapy, occupational therapy, and developmental support tailored to your child’s needs. AutismSTEP would be happy to assist and help you and your child.
Understanding the early signs of autism empowers parents to take proactive steps in supporting their child’s unique developmental journey. By staying informed and seeking professional guidance, parents play a significant role in nurturing an environment that promotes the well-being and growth of children on the autism spectrum.
For insights into the most appropriate therapy for your child and to ensure you’re making the best decision for their future, please reach out and book a consultation or contact us directly at +65 6456 9950.