Autism, according to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, falls under the general term of autism spectrum disorders, a range of complex neurodevelopment disorders. It affects a child's ability to socialize and communicate, and no two children experience these disorders to the same extent. Autism is the most severe form of autism spectrum disorders. There is no cure, but treatment is available and is more effective if the warning signs are seen early.
Poor Socialization
A 4-year old child displaying signs of autism is unable to participate in play with his peers. Instead, he appears to be in his own world and is not interested in what is happening around him, according to HelpGuide. He does not know how to make a connection with others or how to make friends. An autistic child has a difficult time understanding his feelings, much less the ability to talk about them. He does not enjoy it when someone tries to hug or cuddle him and shows no creativity when playing with toys. His imagination does not expand like that of other children his age who do not display the signs of autism, and pretend play is not in his realm of comprehension. Failing to make eye contact or to respond to his name are two additional common signs.
Language and Speech
The Mayo Clinic explains that autistic children usually begin speaking after the age of 2, and when they do, it is in an abnormal tone. It is common for an autistic child to repeat the same phrase or words, and when a person asks her a question, she may respond by repeating the question rather than responding with an answer. HelpGuide adds that understanding simple directions or requests is difficult, and she often cannot communicate her own needs or desires.
Language skills in an autistic child do not develop at a rapid pace. She does not speak in compound sentences, and her vocabulary does not expand. She cannot multitask, and when someone explains something the child sees, such as the sun setting and the moon rising, she is unable to understand the explanation. Additionally, HelpGuide explains that autism affects a child's ability to begin a conversation and keep it going.
Nonverbal Communication and Movement
Four-year-olds with autism have difficulty with both nonverbal communication and body language, according to HelpGuide. When needing or wanting a certain object, they are unable to point to it as many children do. Often their facial expressions do not match their words, and they cannot understand another person's facial expression, such as one of happiness or love. Their dexterity is not up to par, and often they have an odd posture. Clumsiness is common, making it difficult for them to walk; often they do so on the tips of their toes. While children of the same age are often able to jump rope, hop and skip, autistic children are typically unable to participate in these activities.
Routines and Interests
Autism causes a child to be inflexible, depending heavily on a set routine. An autistic child likes one specific route to the park or school, and if another route is taken, he becomes inconsolable. HelpGuide explains that if a change in environment is made, such as bedroom furniture being rearranged, he may throw a tantrum, as he does not adapt well to change. He may spend hours with one specific toy or toys, lining them up in a specific way. Rocking back and forth in the corner for an incessant amount of time is also common.
