What Is Autism?
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a developmental disorder that causes issues with communication, social, verbal, and motor skills.
The most important thing to know about autism is that it is a spectrum disorder, meaning its effects vary from person to person. No two people with autism have the same symptoms. Symptoms generally appear in the early stage of childhood before the age of three. Symptoms can vary from mild to severe.
If you do find yourself noticing some developmental differences in your child, early intervention has proven to be one of the most effective strategies to raising a child with autism. The American Autism Association is happy to walk you through getting the proper resources and assistance you may need on this journey.
We have an abundance of information and resources offered to anyone interested in learning about autism spectrum disorders (ASD), including Asperger’s Syndrome, and it’s symptoms. Please visit our Autism Resources page for further information, or contact us on our Autism Help Hotline for any questions you may have.
Early Signs & Symptoms
Communication
Delays in development of spoken language.
Idiosyncratic repetitive language.
Lack of pragmatic aspect of language.
Inability to initiate or maintain language.
Responds to a question by repeating it, rather than answering it.
Has difficulty communicating needs or desires.
Social patterns
Lack of appropriateness in verbal and non behavior.
Lack of ability to develop peer relationships.
Lack of apparent social and emotion reciprocity.
Prefers not to be touched, held, or cuddled.
Has trouble understanding feelings or talking about them.
Doesn’t share interests or achievements with others (drawings, toys).
Behavior Patterns
Restricted, repetitive and stereotyped patterns of behavior.
Difficulty in motor control.
Peculiar attachment to inanimate objects.
Distressed by a change in routine.
Lining up toys.
Head banging.
Rocking back and forth.