Can I Recognize Signs of Autism in Infants?

Early signs of autism can be detected in children under the age of 24 months, however this early it is an inexact science. Children develop at different rates. Of course, all children should still basically fall in and around the developmental milestones set up by specialists in child development. A child's pediatrician will ask you standard questions at each checkup regarding your child's development.

If he/she notices something that may be off, further tests and research may be needed. Also, if you notice what you think may be early signs of autism in your child, vis. no eye contact or smiles or reactions to stimuli around six months of age, no reciprocated feelings of happiness expressed towards you at nine months of age, the lack of babbling and interest in their surroundings by one year, slow communication development, if any of these signs persist well past the gray area of the developmental milestone, be sure to consult with your pediatrician.

While, a doctor is remit to diagnose any disorder within the autism spectrum before two years of age, if it is a possibility, then treatment of a sort can begin. Early recognition of developmental difficulties will make it much easier to help your child manage them as he/she grows older. Even if it isn't autism, activities involving social interaction, activities geared towards helping a child become familiar with their environment and to take active interest in it, and the setting of a basic schedule so as to give the child some structure and safety net in their life, will help with developmental delays. If detected during infancy this also gives the parent a good amount of time to come to terms with the changes their life is going to go through.

The biggest factor in dealing with Autism is patience. Children with developmental disorders need to feel the nurture and compassion from their caregivers as early on as infancy. They may not respond in ways that you feel are normal, but a loving patient attitude from the parent, caregivers, etc. will help the child to feel safe and confident in their world. This is a great ease on their mind and will actually help them to learn, grow, and develop. Fear is one of the biggest adversaries of personal growth-physical, mental, and emotional. It is the responsibility of the adults in any child's life to alleviate this debilitating emotion.

Remember, just because your child is experiencing some developmental delays does not mean that the final prognosis is Autism, or any other developmental disorder. Children develop at different rates, it can't be stressed enough. Some even learn to walk skipping the crawling milestone completely. And as long as your child is effectively communicating with you even if not in full sentences when he/she is supposed to, does not mean the child has a disorder.

Don't be afraid to talk this over with your child's pediatrician though. Any worries or fears should be discussed because it is the primary physician that will best be able to alleviate your fears. This in turn will help you to give your child a more stable, comfortable environment, whether or not the child has autism.

For the latest videos and training information on child development as well as books and curricula on Autism please visit childdevelopmentmedia.com.

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Are Autism Symptoms Easy To Recognize?

Symptoms of Autism begin at the age of six months and reach full intensity, usually no later than three to four years of age. If you notice such characteristics in your child be sure to contact your healthcare provider. The sooner a diagnosis is made the better for your child and while treatment does not come in the form of a cure, it does come in the form of beneficial therapies geared towards preparing your child for as normal a life as possible. There are a variety of forms in which symptoms can manifest, and there are a variety of developmental disorders which fall within the spectrum of Autism like Asperger's, high functioning autism, autism (NOD) not otherwise determined.

Symptoms that can characterize autism include cognitive, physical, and emotional ones, such as impairments in communication, restricted interests, and repetitive behaviors. An autistic child's eating habits can also be different, taking into consideration their tendency to focus on a singular item; this may reflect itself in what type of foods they like. While this doesn't always lead to malnutrition, it is best if you try and keep your child's diet as well-balanced as possible. People who suffer from autism take things very literally. They lack the intuitive capability of understanding emotions and communication in the way others do. These two characteristics of humanity often fall within a gray area. An autistic person is only going to understand the world and its intricacies in a black and white way. Because of this autistic children and adults may seem less affectionate than others. This along with developmental delays is often when a parent begins to notice that something may not be right. Lack of eye contact or the normal attachment a child feels for its parent is an obvious clue. If you have any misgivings on the development of your child, be sure to contact your pediatrician as soon as possible.

Because the symptom of repetitive behavior is often severe, it is best to adapt your child to a schedule. In fact, an autistic child will fall into a comfortable schedule themselves. The problem occurs if this schedule is not a healthy one, or makes it difficult for both you and the child. A schedule will make life easier for you and your child. However, the ability to adapt to life is a necessity as well and while autistic children may find this difficult, teaching them to be as adaptable as possible is beneficial to their future success.

Autism symptoms do not occur individually. More often than not they will be noted in groups of three or more. Symptoms are not strictly categorized either and seep through to other developmental disorders of the autism spectrum. Because of this it is important to consult your child's pediatrician as soon as you notice anything abnormal occurring with your child's development. It may not be autism, but if it is, the sooner detected the sooner you can start therapies with your child and working to make sure their life and yours is as simple and easy as possible.

For the latest videos and training information on child development as well as books and curricula on Autism please visit childdevelopmentmedia.com

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