Autism is a developmental disorder that impacts the way a child interacts with others and his world. First warning signs for autism can appear as early in infancy, although a diagnosis usually does not come until later around the age of three. Symptoms of autism occur in various combinations and can range from mild to severe.
Sensory Reactions
During infancy, children later diagnosed with autism may over or under-react to external stimuli involving the five senses. Those that overreact may cry inconsolably when exposed to bright lights, loud noises or strong smells, according to HealthCommunities.com. They may cry when touched and appear to be in pain. Those that under-react may fail to acknowledge or appear indifferent to a deafening noise like a motorcycle passing by or an airplane overhead, similar to the way a deaf child might react.
Social Relatedness and Communication
Early warning signs of autism in young children often become evident in social situations, according to the Autism and PDD Support Network. An autistic child may prefer to play alone, and lack interest in the responses of others. When it comes to toys, he may ignore traditional toys in favor of what the sight terms "sustained odd play" or attachment to objects. Autistic children often resist cuddling or affection and may even appear aloof.
Language & Communication
It is common for toddlers with autism to have language delays. This makes two-way communication regarding their needs challenging. The language delays can vary from mild to severe, according to HealthCommunities.com. While some may laugh or cry for unknown reasons, others take on abnormal speech patterns that have no intonation or repeat phrases.
The Autism Speaks website instructs parents to have their child evaluated if the child cannot give you a big smile or a warm happy expression by the age of six months, and does not banter back and forth with facial expressions or sounds by nine months.
Children who cannot babble, wave or point by their first birthday, have no words by 16 months, and cannot put two words together independently by the age of two, should be seen by a doctor. In addition, seek a doctor's opinion if your child regresses in terms of speech or social skills.
Need for Structure
The Autism and PDD Support Network sight notes that autistic children will often insist on strict daily routines. The slightest change in a routine may lead to temper tantrums.
