Six early signs of autism you should know

Every April 2nd is a special day set aside by the United Nations in 2007 as World Autism Awareness Day. The purpose of the day is to raise awareness and understanding about Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) as well as promote the inclusion and acceptance of individuals with autism.

Each World Autism Awareness Day has a specific focused theme, with the theme of 2024 being “Moving from Surviving to Thriving: Autistic Individuals Share Regional Perspectives.”

Autism is a neurodevelopmental disorder that mostly appears in early childhood; hence, early identification can assist in ensuring early intervention capable of improving the lives of individuals with autism.

Here are six early signs of autism you should know:

1. Delayed Speech or Language Skills

Autistic children may not start speaking at the same early age as their peers, or they may even lose linguistic abilities that they have already learned. Autism may be indicated by difficulties in producing words, a limited vocabulary, or problems with communication gestures like pointing or waving.

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2. Social Interaction Challenges

This is yet another early sign of autism. Children with autism often struggle with social interaction, exhibiting behaviors such as avoiding eye contact, not responding to their names, showing lack of interest in playing with other children, and experiencing difficulties in understanding or responding to social cues, such as smiles or gestures.

3. Sensory Sensitivities

Heightened sensitivity or aversion to sensory stimuli, such as loud noises, bright lights, certain textures, or specific smells, are common in individuals with autism. Children who react strongly to sensory input or seem overwhelmed by their surroundings may be displaying early signs of autism.

4. Challenges with Transitions and Adjustments

Children with autism frequently prefer consistency and find it difficult to adjust to new routines or transitions. If their environment or everyday routines unexpectedly change, they could get angry or show challenging behaviors.

5. Repetitive Behaviors

Children with autism frequently engage in repetitive behaviors or motions, such as hand flapping, rocking back and forth, or fixating on particular items. These behaviors can offer diagnostic hints as they frequently appear in early childhood.

6. Engaging in Little or No Pretend Play

Another early sign of autism can be a reduced interest or engagement in pretend play. Children with autism may have difficulty using their imagination to create and engage in pretend scenarios or role-playing activities. They often prefer more repetitive play behaviors instead.