Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) or simply, autism is a complex neurodevelopmental disorder that appears in early childhood.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), autism is a lifelong condition, and it affects how a person interacts and communicates with others.

What are the Early Indicators of Autism?

As mentioned, autism appears in early childhood, usually around 2-3 years of age. Here are some early indicators of autism:.

Children with autism find it challenging to interact and participate in social activities with their peers. They may not be interested in playing with others, sharing toys or objects, or making eye contact.

2. Communication Challenges

Communication problems are one of the critical indicators of autism. A child with autism may have difficulty understanding facial expressions, tone of voice, or body language.

They may also avoid eye contact, have delayed language development or speak in a monotone voice.

3. Repetitive Behaviours

It is typical for children to repeat some actions or words, but for a child with autism, these repetitive behaviours may be excessive and interfere with their everyday functioning.

For instance, they may have repetitive movements like flapping their hands or spinning objects, or rhythmic movements like rocking back and forth.

4. Delayed Milestones

A child with autism may experience developmental delays, like sitting, crawling, or walking.

It is essential to note that every child develops at their pace, but if you notice your child is lagging behind in milestones, it’s best to speak with a healthcare provider.

5. Sensory Issues

It is not uncommon for children with autism to have sensory processing difficulties, such as over or undersensitivity to sounds, lights, or smells.

They may be highly sensitive to touch or find it challenging to wear certain clothes due to their texture.

What Should Parents Do If They Suspect Autism?

If you suspect that your child has autism, it is advisable to seek an evaluation from a qualified healthcare provider. Early intervention is critical for children with autism.

The sooner a child with the condition receives intervention, the better the outcome.

Treatment for Autism

There is currently no cure for autism, but several evidence-based therapies can help children with the condition.

The most common therapies are behavioural and educational interventions, and medication for co-occurring conditions, like anxiety and ADHD.

Behavioural and Educational Interventions

Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA) is the most commonly used behavioural intervention for children with autism. It involves teaching the child new skills through positive reinforcement and encourages them to use these skills in different scenarios.

Other behavioural interventions include:.

Speech and Language Therapy: To teach children communication skills
Occupational Therapy: To help children with fine motor skills and sensory processing
Play Therapy: To teach children social skills in a non-threatening environment
Social Skills Training: To help children learn how to interact with others in various settings

Medications

There is no medication to cure autism, but medications can help manage co-occurring conditions like anxiety, depression, or ADHD.

A healthcare provider will prescribe medication depending on the child’s individual needs and how they respond to treatment.

The Bottom Line

Autism is a complex neurodevelopmental disorder that affects how a person communicates, interacts and behaves with others. Early intervention is crucial for the best outcome for children with autism.

If you suspect your child has autism, seek an evaluation from a qualified healthcare provider.