Recognizing the Early Autism Symptoms in Children
Autism in children can present in various ways, and recognizing these signs early can help provide the necessary support. Here are some common early signs parents should watch for:
- Social Interaction Difficulties:
- Avoidant Eye Contact: Children with autism often avoid making eye contact.
- Difficulty Understanding Emotions: They might struggle to understand or express their own and others’ emotions.
- Preference for Solitude: They might prefer playing alone or engaging in parallel play rather than interacting directly with peers.
- Communication Styles:
- Varied Speech Development: Some children may have delays in speaking, while others might develop advanced language skills early.
- Repetitive Language Use: They might repeat phrases or words over and over in order to process what is being said or as a form of stimming (known as echolalia).
- Alternative Gestures: Limited use of conventional gestures like pointing or waving, but they might develop their own forms of non-verbal communication.
- Behavioral Characteristics:
- Repetitive Movements and Behaviors: Engaging in behaviors such as rocking, hand-flapping, or spinning. These can sometimes be comforting but may also be a stress response.
- Structured Routines: A strong preference for routines and predictability for a sense of security and control.
- Focused Interests: Intense focus on specific interests can create a great sense of joy but can also lead to the exclusion of other, sometimes important activities.
- Sensory Sensitivities: Children with autism may become overwhelmed due to certain sensory inputs such as noise level, textures, smells, or amount of light. When ignored, this can lead to an outburst or a meltdown.
Getting an Autism Assessment for Children
Minds Matter Clinic makes your child’s comfort our top priority and so we offer both in-person and at-home digital appointments. As know this can sometimes be a difficult process and requires you to take time out of your normal schedule, we are open 7 days a week between 8am-8pm in order to best fit your life.
Our Autism assessments for children include:
- Questionnaires that should be completed and returned before the appointment.
- A questionnaire sent to your child’s school for teachers to complete
- In-person (or digital!) appointment to meet and speak with your child
Our clinicians here at Minds Matter Clinic are extremely educated in diagnosing autism and supporting children. We have a great passion for ensuring that children are equipped to combat the difficulties life throws at them so they can grow into the best versions of themselves.
Autism Support and Next Steps
After the assessment, if your child is diagnosed with autism, early and continued support is key to helping them thrive. Here are some supportive options:
- Therapeutic Interventions
- Behavioral and Developmental Support: Techniques like Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) can help build skills and support positive behaviors.
- Speech Therapy: To enhance communication skills tailored to your child’s needs.
- Occupational Therapy: To help with daily living skills and sensory integration, enhancing comfort and functionality.
- Educational Support
- Individualized Education Program (IEP): A customized plan designed to meet your child’s unique educational needs.
- Inclusive Education Services: Access to specialized instruction and support within inclusive school environments.
- Parental and Family Support
- Parent Training Programs: Equipping parents with strategies to support their child’s unique development.
- Support Groups: Connecting with other families to share experiences and gain mutual support.
Let Us Help
Recognizing the early signs of autism in children and seeking an autism assessment can help provide the right support for your child’s unique way of experiencing the world. Early support and understanding can help autistic children navigate life successfully and reach their full potential.
If you have concerns about your child’s development, then contact Minds Matter Clinic for guidance and assessment. We offer a free 30-minute consultation, so you can get a feel for us and to let us show you how we can provide great support for you and your child.
For more information on Autism and Minds Matter Clinic, check out our dedicated Autism Assessment Service page, our FAQ, and our other blogs.