April is Autism Awareness Month. Here is some information about this disorder commonly known us "being on the spectrum."
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects communication, social interaction, and behavior. There is no single test for diagnosing ASD, and diagnosis typically involves a comprehensive evaluation by a healthcare professional, such as a pediatrician, psychologist, or psychiatrist.
However, there are some common signs and symptoms of autism that parents or caregivers can look for in children, including:
Delay in speech or lack of speech
Difficulty making eye contact
Difficulty in social interaction and making friends
Repetitive behaviors, such as flapping hands or rocking back and forth
Sensory sensitivities, such as being overly sensitive to certain textures or sounds.
If you notice any of these signs or symptoms in your child, it is important to talk to your child's healthcare provider about your concerns. The provider may recommend further evaluation by a specialist, such as a developmental pediatrician, a child psychiatrist or psychologist, or a speech-language pathologist, to determine if your child has ASD.
It is important to note that some children with ASD may not show any signs or symptoms until later in childhood or adolescence and that the severity of symptoms can vary widely among individuals. Early diagnosis and intervention can help children with ASD to reach their full potential and improve their quality of life.
At our clinic, we screen for this and can get you started on understanding more about how to help your little child.