Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a complex neurodevelopmental disorder that affects a person’s communication, social interaction, and behavior. It usually appears in early childhood, particularly in the first three years of life.
What are the early signs of autism in toddlers?
The early signs of autism in toddlers may vary, but there are certain behaviors that are common in children with autism. Here are some of the common early signs of autism in toddlers:.
1. Lack of Social Interaction
Toddlers with autism may have difficulty initiating and maintaining social interactions and relationships with others. They may not respond to their name, avoid eye contact, and prefer to play alone.
2. Delayed Speech and Language Development
Delayed speech and language development is another early sign of autism in toddlers. Some children with autism may not start speaking until later than other children, while some may not speak at all.
They may also have difficulty understanding and using language in social communication.
3. Repetitive Behaviors
Toddlers with autism may engage in repetitive behaviors such as hand flapping, rocking, spinning, or lining up objects. They may also have a strong attachment to routines and have difficulty with change.
4. Sensory Issues
Toddlers with autism may have heightened sensitivity or decreased sensitivity to certain sensory stimuli. They may be overly sensitive to noise, light, touch, or smell, or they may not respond to these sensory experiences at all.
5. Lack of Pretend Play
Toddlers with autism may struggle with imaginative play and prefer to engage in repetitive or non-pretend play, such as lining up toys or spinning objects.
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6. Difficulty with Social Communication
Toddlers with autism may struggle with social communication, such as taking turns in conversation, understanding nonverbal cues, or understanding humor and sarcasm.
7. Unusual Attachment to Objects
Toddlers with autism may become overly attached to certain objects or toys and have difficulty transitioning away from them.
8. Atypical Motor Development
Toddlers with autism may have atypical motor development. They may have difficulty with coordination or have a floppy or stiff body posture.
9. Unusual Eating Habits
Toddlers with autism may have unusual eating habits, such as being very picky about what they eat or eating only certain textures or colors of food.
10. Sleep Issues
Toddlers with autism may have difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep. They may wake up frequently during the night or have difficulty settling down at bedtime.
Conclusion
It is important to remember that every child with autism is unique and may exhibit some or all of these early signs. If you are concerned about your child’s development, contact your child’s pediatrician for an evaluation.
Early intervention is important for children with autism to ensure the best possible outcome.
