What is Autism?

Autism is known explicitly as Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). This spectrum encompasses a range of levels that can affect how an individual behaves, interacts socially, learns, and communicates. Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder might also display signs related to OCD, ADHD, repetitive behaviors, and intense interests.

Social interaction can be exceptionally challenging for those with Autism Spectrum Disorder. Depending on where they fall on the spectrum, their learning and cognitive abilities can span from highly gifted to requiring substantial support. Additionally, individuals on the spectrum may experience sensory overstimulation from sources like lights, sounds, and spinning objects. Some may even engage in sensory-seeking behaviors or have specific sensory triggers. (🔗Understanding Autism: What Is It?)

Signs of Autism generally appear in the first two years of life. Children and adults can have Autism Spectrum Disorder. Below are the top 20 signs of autism in children and adults.

Signs of Autism Spectrum Disorder may include but are not limited to the following:

• Not responding to their name by 12 months of age
• Quick or infrequent eye contact
• Hand flapping and spinning
• Not interested in other children or adults
• Intense tantrums and meltdowns
• An unusual attachment to objects or routines
• Can have difficulty speaking or prefers to be nonverbal
• Difficulty following directions
• Independent for their age or needs severe help
• Trouble communicating interests and needs
• Not pointing or waving
• Not smiling in response to others smiling at them
• Repeats words or phrases
• Limited functional play and no make-believe play
• Limited imitation skills
• Prefers to collect things instead of playing with them
• Sensory-seeking behavior like watching something in motion, hearing sounds over and over
• Easily overstimulated by things like sounds, lights, or clothing
• Intense Attraction to spinning objects such as ceiling fans and wheels such as toy car wheels
• Intense Attraction to water and sand such as running water and kinetic sand

If your child displays any of these behaviors and you have any questions or concerns, please discuss them with your pediatrician or healthcare provider.

Steps to Getting an Autism Diagnosis

If you suspect that your loved one has signs of autism, you might like to read 🔗this article that explains the steps to getting an Autism Diagnosis. Please remember to discuss your concerns with your pediatrician or healthcare provider as well.

Thank you for taking the time to read this blog post! I hope you found it informative and helpful. If you have any questions or feedback, please feel free to leave a comment below. I appreciate your input and will do my best to respond to all comments. If you know someone who could benefit from this information, please share this post with them! 🙂