What are the signs and symptoms of autism?

In our last entry we explored what autism is, and basic diagnostic criteria for the developmental disorder.

Since conversing with a few friends and fellow students, requests were made to provide more in-depth information on signs, symptoms, and diagnostic criteria.

Please keep in mind that, though these signs and symptoms should not be ignored, they should be taken with a grain of salt. All children develop at different rates, have different personalities, and, even if there are concerns that your child may have autism, many resources are now available to properly diagnose and treat the disorder, as well as facilitate a healthy lifestyle.

The following list of normal, expected developmental behavior, taken directly from a CDC handout, cannot be improved upon in my humble opinion; thus, the literal transcription of such information:

By the end of 7 months, many children are able to:

• turn head when name is called
• smile back at another person
• respond to sound with sounds
• enjoy social play (such as “peek-a-boo”)

By the end of 1 year (12 months), many children are able to:

• use simple gestures (waving “bye-bye”)
• make sounds such as “ma” and “da”
• imitate actions in their play (clap when you clap)
• respond when told “no”

By the end of 1½ years (18 months), many children are able to:

• do simple pretend play (“talk” on a toy phone)
• point to interesting objects
• look at object when you point at it and tell them to “Look!”
• use several single words unprompted

By the end of 2 years (24 months), many children are able to:

• use 2- to 4-word phrases
• follow simple instructions
• become more interested in other children
• point to object or picture when named

By the end of 3 years (36 months), many children are able to:

• show affection for playmates
• use 4- to 5-word sentences
• imitate adults and playmates (run when other children run)
• play make-believe with dolls, animals, and people (“feed” a teddy bear)

By the end of 4 years (48 months), many children are able to:

• use 5- to 6-word sentences
• follow 3-step commands (“Get dressed. Comb your hair, and wash your face.”)
• cooperate with other children

Questions to ask your child's doctor or nurse:

• What can I do to keep track of my child's development?
• What should I do if I'm worried about my child's progress?
• Where can I go to get more information?
• Can you refer me to a specialist for more information?

www.cdc.gov/actearly

Learn the Signs. Act Early.

Along with the above developmental milestone information, I have also included two very informative videos... from YouTube! Lately I've found it to be quite the educational video resource, believe it or not.

The first video is quite sterile and straightforward, direct from a physician's mouth, Dr. David Hill. 

The second is a little more animated and personal, featuring the video personality's (absolutely adorable) autistic nephew.

*** See you all next week! Please be sure to take surveys and leave comments/ask questions in the meantime!!!***

What are the signs and symptoms of autism?