Early detection is crucial when dealing with the disorder called autism. The earlier a child is diagnosed with the disorder the more likely they will be able to receive the proper treatment. The children who were diagnosed at a rather young age to show signs of autism usually grow up to be fully functional in society with the least amount of difficulties. Autism is a developmental disorder which affects an estimated six out of every 1,000 children. Autism signs can appear as early as infancy. A child can have a mild degree of autism to a disabling degree. All parents want the best possible life for their children. When it comes to autism early detection is the key.
There are six common signs of an autistic child:
Obsessive Focus or Behavior
Many autistic children focus passionately fixed on one particular item completely oblivious to others or surroundings for extended periods of time. This is usually a toy but it can be any type of object that gains the child's interest. Many children appear to have the ability to focus on one item or be fascinated by simple things for long periods of time. This type of sign can easily be missed by a parent if they are not paying close attention. If it is difficult to distract the child from that object or the fascination appears to be extremely intense you should be concerned. It is a sign of obsessive focus or behavior.
Repetitive Movements
This is usually the first sign parents noticed because it can be disturbing. If a child is sitting on the floor and begins to rock back and forth in a daze it is a warning sign of autism. Head-banging, twirling, and hitting or biting themselves are all major signs of autism.
Name and Emotion Recognition Issues
There are name recognition issues in a child who lacks the ability to respond to their name when spoken to or called. A child showing no empathy or understanding of common facial expressions is a sign of emotion recognition issues.
Speech Problems
If your child is not speaking at the same level of other children or refer to themselves by name instead of using the words I or me it is a warning sign.
Withdrawal from Social Interaction
This includes babies as well as children that are unresponsive to people and lack the ability to interact with others.
Reduced Sensitivity to Pain and a Higher Sensitivity to Sound
A major sign to look for is if a child a resistance to being hugged or cuddled. Looking closely for these six signs will help to identify whether or not your child is autistic.
