April is the month during which autism is recognized annually. Many parents do not know or recognize if their child may be on the spectrum. How does one know really and what is autism?
Parents may observe some slightly behaviours from the norm which they cannot explain or are not even sure if something is wrong with their child. Let us look at an overview of autism.
What is Autism
Autism, or autism spectrum disorder, refers to a range of conditions characterized by challenges with social skills, repetitive behaviors, speech and nonverbal communication, as well as by unique strengths and differences. We now know that there is not one autism but many types, caused by different combinations of genetic and environmental influences.
The term “spectrum” reflects the wide variation in challenges and strengths possessed by each person with autism.
Individuals with autism do not necessarily look obviously different from others, but may be impaired in their speech, behavior, learning, and the way they perceive the world around them.
According to the U.S. CDC (July 2016), the prevalence of the autism spectrum disorder is about 1 in 68 children, is about 4.5 times more common among boys, and occurs in all racial, ethnic, and socioeconomic groups.
Symptoms appear before age 3 years, though children may be diagnosed after the age of three years in many cases. Almost all parents notice symptoms within the first two years of their child's life.
You should suspect Autism if:
- Your child does not respond to their name by 12 months of age.
- Your child does not point at objects to show interest (like an airplane by 14 months).
- Your child does not play "pretend" games by 18 months.
- Your child avoids eye contact and wants to be alone.
- Your child has trouble understanding other people's feelings.
- Your child has delayed speech and language skills
- Your child repeats words or phrases over and over (Echolalia).
- Your child gets upset by minor changes.
- Your child has obsessive interests.
- Your child flaps their hands, rock their body, or spin in circles.
- Your child has unusual reactions to the way things sound, smell, taste, look, or feel.
What treatments are available for people with autism?
There is no known cure for autism. In some cases, medications and dietary restrictions may help control symptoms. Intervention should begin when the child is young. Early intervention and preschool programs are very important. An evaluation by an SLP should be completed to determine social skill, communication, language, and behavior needs. An appropriate treatment plan that meets the needs of the child and family can then be established. Treatment may include any combination of traditional speech and language approaches, augmentative and alternative communication, and behavioral interventions. It is also important to have the child's hearing evaluated to rule out hearing loss.
It is good to be aware and informed. Parents should take note of their children’s behaviour and if there are any concerns then make an appointment with your paediatrician to be informed.
References:
http://www.asha.org/public/speech/disorders/Autism/
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