What Is Autism?

Did you know that 1 in 59 children are diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder? In fact, this number is continues to grow each year. There are many types of autism that range across a large spectrum. Individuals who fall on the Autism Spectrum each face a number of challenges and possess strengths that make them unique. Learn more interesting facts about Autism Spectrum Disorder below.

What is Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)?

Autism Spectrum Disorder is a developmental disability that is characterized by causing significant social, communication and behavioral challenges. Individuals who have this disorder can often experience delayed language development and may exhibit difficulty in common social skills. They may not be able to easily make eye contact or hold a conversation; this is especially common when they’re overwhelmed. Some individuals may also experience difficulty with some or all sensory or motor skills. The reason that autism falls on a spectrum is that not everyone’s behaviors or challenges are the same, and everyone’s therapy will differ.

When Can A Medical Professional Diagnose My Child With ASD?

It’s common for a medical professional to diagnose an individual with an ASD diagnosis between the ages of two and three years old. However, a medical professional can diagnose ASD as early as 18 months. 

If you’ve noticed that your child is not hitting his/her age appropriate milestones bringing your child to their doctor to discuss the delays is recommended. Getting an evaluation and diagnosis early in your child’s life earlier means the sooner you can start working with a Board Certified Behavior Analyst and the sooner your child will begin to make show social and developmental improvement.

Who is most likely to be diagnosed with ASD?

Any child or adult can be given an Autism diagnosis. ASD is 4 times more likely in boys than girls. What this means is about 1 in every 37 boys will be diagnosed with ASD and 1 in every 151 girls will be diagnosed with ASD.

Common Early Signs of ASD

Early signs of ASD will vary from child to child.  Early intervention, which we offer is important because it drastically improves outcomes for children with autism.

The following signs can help you identify whether your child might have autism:

  • Six months. No social smiles directed at people and limited or no eye contact
  • Nine months. No sharing of smiles, vocal sounds or nonverbal communication
  • 12 months. No babbling, response to name or use of gestures to communicate
  • 16 months. No words
  • 24 months. No meaningful, two-word phrases
  • Any age. Loss of any previously acquired babbling, social skills or speech
  • Any age. Avoids eye contact and prefers time alone
  • Any age. Struggles to understand the feelings of others
  • Any age. Nonverbal or delayed language development
  • Any age. Becomes upset by changes in routine
  • Any age. Has restricted interests
  • Any age. Performs repetitive behaviors
  • Any age. Unusually strong reactions to sensory input

A child may present with some or all of these signs. Seeing them appear over a period of time can be a red flag that your child has ASD. An early diagnosis means your child can begin early intervention and quicker skills development can occur.