How To Detect Autism in Children

Due to diets, health of the mother and stress levels, autism is a common disorder many children can be born with. It is also because of the improved healthcare system that detection of autism is now easier than before. Back in the day the chances of identifying if your child possess symptoms of autism were low and was only diagnosed as they grew older.

However, thanks to drastic improvements in the healthcare system it has become not only become easy to spot at an early age but preventive and management options to allow children to have a normal life. Parents should be educated on how to spot the early signs so medication and activities can be recommended from the start. Here are some ways to identify autism in babies and toddlers.

Avoiding eye contact

Having a conversation with another person requires you both to maintain eye contact throughout the conversation. However, when your child throws a tantrum, they may not make eye contact with you. While this is quite normal the lack of eye contact throughout a conversation can mean something more serious.

This can mean that they are listening to you but their gaze does not meet yours. If you do spot this in the initial stages and it does not seem to go away, it could easily be an earl sign of autism. However, thanks to OT for ASD these small disorders can be corrected and managed before they worsen.

Repetitive movements

The constant rocking of the body, flapping hands or snapping fingers are other ways to detect autism. It is not to be confused for when kids are playing but instead if they feel the need to rock their bodies while sitting in a chair or even standing are easy signs. Make a note of how long and how often this takes place and seek medical attention accordingly. This particular sign can be seen in kids from 3 upwards and if ignored can worsen over time.

Being anti-social

Children can be introverts from a young change and that is completely fine. Meaning they may not feel comfortable getting involved in group activities or may even find it difficult to make friends. These are all normal at a young age and are things that some kids grow out of.

However not getting involved can also be a subtle sign that is easy to miss. In order to spot the issue, try having a conversation with your child as to why they feel the need to be reserved. Their response could be a symptom. Monitor for how long this happens and in what circumstances.

Finding it difficult to express themselves

This can be through physical pain or the inability to carry out a task. While kids will have trouble straight up telling you how their feeling word choice, actions and behaviour can help you identify serious underlying conditions. Be patient to talk it through with your child and let them express their emotions the way they can.