Does Your Child Have Autism?
If you're a parent with more than one child, then you know how different each of your children can be. Sometimes the joy of seeing your son or daughter display certain traits can also be a cause of concern. There is nothing wrong with having an introverted or extraverted personality. Still, at times, other behaviors might make you wonder if what you see is something more than the neurotypical spectrum.
Autism can be hard to spot at a young age, and the spectrum and doctors' understanding of it have grown over the last decade. It's important to spot and diagnose signs of autism in your children so you can help them navigate and function throughout life. Children with autism may struggle in certain areas, but with the right tools and help, your child can be anything they dream of. Autism isn't something to be fearful of, but you must take the time to diagnose and understand your child's needs if they find themselves on the spectrum.
Here are some tips to help you get started.
- Look at Behavior
There are a few key things to look out for when spotting early signs of autism in your child. One of the most common is not making eye contact with you or other people. This can be a sign that they're not processing social cues in the same way as neurotypical children.
Other autistic children may have repetitive behaviors, such as flapping their hands or repeating specific phrases. They may also be sensitive to sensory input, such as sound or touch. Symptoms can vary, and not all signs of autism are easy to spot. If your child struggles with overwhelm and sounds, they could be displaying symptoms of Aspergers.
If you notice any of these red flags, you should bring these concerns up with your pediatrician. With autism spectrum disorder (ASD) being a complex neurological condition that that's difficult to diagnose, it's important to schedule an appointment with a specialist. A professional evaluation is the best way to determine whether your loved one has ASD. They can help you determine if your child has autism and give them the necessary resources to thrive.
- Keep Learning & Be Understanding
Educating yourself about ASD will help you better understand your loved one's condition and how to best support them. There are many great resources available online and from organizations like Autism Speaks.
People with ASD often communicate and interact differently than neurotypical people. It's important to be patient and try to see the world from their perspective. Not only can you find joy in understanding how your child or loved one sees the world, but you'll be showing the support that your family member with ASD needs.
- Create a Support Network
Many resources are available online and in books that can help you learn more about autism and how to manage it. Reading about other people's experiences can be very helpful and let you know you're not alone.
Whatever method you choose, getting support from others who understand what you and your child are going through can be a valuable way to help you cope with autism.
- Seek Professional Advice
Don't shy away from seeing a therapist or counselor who specializes in autism. This can be a great way to talk about your challenges and get guidance on coping and lend support to your loved one with ASD. A therapist or counselor can provide the advice and support you need to deal with this new reality.
Don't wait to take action if you think your loved one may be showing signs of autism. These steps will help you get the information and support you need to help your loved
