Early Indicators of Autism Spectrum Disorder: What Every Parent Should Know - Dr Ravi Kumar C P

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a developmental condition that affects how individuals perceive the world and interact socially. It is a developmental disorder characterized by challenges in social communication, restricted interests, and repetitive behaviours. Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) often exhibit difficulties in social interaction, have narrow interests, and engage in repetitive behaviours.

Early Childhood Red Flags (Before 18 months):

• Lack of social reference: Does your youngster observe you to see how you react to new or exciting experiences? Using the feelings of another person as a point of reference is known as social referencing, and it is an important developmental milestone.
• Little eye contact: Humans naturally make eye contact during the first few months of life. It could be concerning if your youngster avoids making eye contact at all or just glances at you.
• Unusual play styles: Toddlers usually play imaginatively, yet pretend play may not appear until later. Instead of using toys to explore them properly, does your child only use them to line things up or do repetitive motions?
• Absence of pointing: Toddlers can share their attention with others by pointing at things that catch their attention. Speak with your doctor if your child does not use your hand to guide you to desired things or points.
• Atypical or delayed communication: By six months old, does your infant coo or babble? Most infants will be using basic words like "mama" or "dada" by the time they are 12 months old. Talk to your paediatrician if your child isn't making any effort at verbal communication or is just chattering sporadically.

Warning Signs in Toddlers and Preschoolers (18 months to 5 years):

• Sensory sensitivity: Children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) may be more sensitive to specific sounds, textures, lighting, or odours. Keep an eye out for signs of excessive distress in your child from bright lights, loud noises, or certain types of clothes.
• Language development challenges: Does your youngster struggle to vocally express needs or wants? Do they repeat words they hear or use echolalic constructions in their sentences? Unusual speech patterns may indicate an ASD diagnosis.
• Social interaction issues: Does your child have trouble making friends, conversing back and forth, or recognising social cues? Observe your child's interactions with other kids at play dates and preschool.
• Restricted interests and repetitive behaviours: Does your youngster start to obsess over certain subjects or start doing repetitive motions like rocking or waving their hands? Even though young children frequently engage in repetitive activities, their severity and regularity may indicate an ASD diagnosis.
• Regression in developmental skills: Has your child stopped utilising words, pointing, or babbling, among other previously learned skills? Developmental regression may serve as a key marker for ASD.

Actions to Take in the Event of Warning Signs:

• Consult your paediatrician. Don't be afraid to talk to your paediatrician about any worries you have regarding your child's growth. In order to maximise your child's potential, early intervention is essential.
• Examine Programmes for Early Intervention: For kids with ASD, early intervention programmes can offer vital help. Enhancing everyday life skills, social engagement, and communication are the main goals of these programmes.
• Schedule a developmental assessment: A thorough developmental review by a psychologist or child development specialist might be suggested by your paediatrician. The diagnosis of ASD or any other underlying developmental impairments can be aided by this evaluation.

Points to be noted:

• Every child with autism shows differently; there is no one "look" that describes autism. Recognise that symptoms might manifest in a continuum.
• Early diagnosis is essential. A child's long-term results can be considerably enhanced by early intervention. Your child will be better able to negotiate the world around them the sooner they receive support.
• Seek assistance: Parents of children with ASD have access to a wealth of services. Become knowledgeable about the illness, make connections with other parents, and join support groups.
• You can make sure your kid with ASD gets the help they need to thrive by arming yourself with information and consulting a specialist.
• Consider your child's advantages: Children with ASD possess special abilities and strengths. Honour their uniqueness and concentrate on developing their skills.