Talking about Autism in children can be an incredibly sensitive topic for many reasons. To be clear, my intent with this article is NOT to (1) cause alarm or fear, (2) attempt to diagnose a child, (3) create any misconceptions or misunderstandings about the subtleties or nuances of Autism nor assume that all people’s behaviors manifest similarly (because they don’t), and finally (4) attempt to tell a parent how to feel or what to do about their child.
My ultimate goal is to spread information, share signs, and support all families on their path of navigating special needs. Please feel free to reach out about any of the above, or anything shared in this article, if desired.
When it comes to understanding and recognizing signs of Autism, especially in children, it can be difficult because not all children present the same way. Plus, each child is unique, and this uniqueness will spill into behaviors, mannerisms, and preferences.
Whether you are suspecting that your child is Autistic or you’re curious about what potential signs to look out for, here are a few of the most common (and of course, this is not an exhaustive list).
Avoiding Eye Contact
When talking to a child with Autism, they will often have trouble maintaining eye contact and may not even look at you at all. While this isn’t exclusive to Autism, of course (because many children, especially when they’re young will be shy and/or hesitant to talk to others – especially adults) it may be something to take note of.
Try to determine if your child struggles to maintain eye contact with strangers or if it’s also with you or other safe people. If he/she struggles with the latter, it may be something to look into.
Preferring To Play Alone
Solo or independent play is not uncommon for children (especially shy or introverted children). However, this can be a sign of Autism in children if that child prefers to play alone even when there is a group of familiar children and/or friends present.
Slower/Delayed Communication
Some parents of children with Autism share that their child did have communication (hand signs and/or even speaking words) at a certain age but this stopped or delayed at a certain point. Alternatively, some children may be completely non-speaking/non-verbal and have always been this way.
A sign of Autism is delayed speech and/or slowed speaking skills. This could also look like babbling well into childhood, noises or vocalizations (“stimms”) at inappropriate times, or it could simply be that your child does not speak.
Trouble Reading Others’ Emotions
Whereas a neurotypical child will often recognize when someone (peer, caregiver, or otherwise) is happy or sad, a child with Autism may not recognize this. He or she may struggle picking up facial expressions and gestures as well.
Limited Facial Expressions
In addition to struggles with recognizing the emotions of others, a child with Autism may also have limited facial expressions or expressions displayed at atypical or inappropriate times.
A child with Autism may not smile as frequently or be as expressive as other children. If you’re a parent of a child who displays these limited expressions, it may be a good idea to pay attention to these expressions/social skills and see if they develop over time.
Does Not Always Respond To His/Her Name
Children with Autism may not respond to their name or register when they are being spoken to. This goes along with social skills and/or awareness and some of the deficets in those areas.
If you find that your child does not always respond (which is different than resisting or ignoring) it may be a sign of Autism.
Sound Sensitivity
People with Autism are prone to sensory overload. Loud environments can be stressful for many kids with Autism and can cause “stimming” or expressive behaviors. Strong smells may have a similar impact, too.
Pay attention to your child’s sensitivity (to sound, light, smell, or even at crowded locations/areas). If your child does not seem to adjust or regulate well, this could be a sign of Austim.
Repetitive Behaviors
Children with Autism often engage in repetitive behaviors such as opening and closing drawers, flapping hands, or repeating the same word/phrase. These can be “stimms” which are common self-regulating or self-soothing behaviors, or it can simply be the way that child engages with his/her environment.
Eccentric Movement
When it comes to movement in general, some people with Autism adopt their own style of walking, moving, or engaging with their surroundings. This can look like tip-toeing, creating alternative pathways, or walking on areas that have more sensory input.
Sensitivity To Touch Or Physical Embraces
A child with Autism may not engage with hugging or physical affection unless he/she is the one initiating it. If you were to hug this child, he/she may potentially pull away or show signs of distress. You may also notice the opposite, too – your child leaning in or getting close to your personal ‘bubble’ without regard for space.
Seeking Understanding Or A Diagnosis
If your child has Autism, he or she may be eligible for extra support at school, as well as various disability benefits and financial assistance. However, to receive this help, you will most likely need to obtain an official diagnosis first.
By talking to a doctor, you can usually get an assessment set up. A psychiatrist or similarly-qualified professional will lead the assessment and will determine if your child has Autism. This guide at Autism Parenting Magazine explains more! There are also plenty of opportunities to support your child, not only in youth but as they grow! Places like Passavant Development Corporation, for example, can offer resources in your area and help you to seek opportunities for employment and life.
Autism is a lifelong condition; it is also, simply, a different way of living that is not as neurotypical. It does not mean that anything is “wrong” with that child or individual or that they need to be “fixed.”
However, there are many forms of therapy that can help improve that child’s quality of life! For example, Accel Therapies – Autism Therapists offer hands-on therapy to support your child’s cognitive, behavioral, social, and mental wellbeing.
While Autism has its challenges, it’s important to remember that Autism can also have its strengths! This includes being great logical thinkers, having a great memory, being very honest, having strong morals, and developing deep passions. By nurturing these qualities, you can set up your child for great success now and later in life.
Featured Image Credit:Karolina Kaboompics