Autism, a developmental disorder, impacts a person's communication, behavior and social skills. Autism generally appears before the age of 3, and early intervention is recommended to ameliorate the symptoms. Autism disorder falls within a range of autistic disorders referred to as autism spectrum disorders (ASD). In addition to autism disorder, ASD includes Asperger syndrome, considered a milder form of autism, and pervasive developmental disorder--not otherwise specified (ppd-nos), a diagnosis given to someone with only a few autism symptoms.
Developmental Delays
Autistic children may develop normally for the first few years, then display delays later, or they may exhibit delays early on. Developmental delays for children with autism tend to relate to language, learning and social skills. Their ability to sit, roll over and walk is generally equal to other children not diagnosed with autism. Occasionally, autistic children exhibit out-of-order learning, for example, reading complicated words before being able to identify letter sounds.
Social Delays
Children with autism generally interact poorly with other people, both children and adults. They may act disinterested in other people, be incapable of playing with other children or seem unable to understand what others are saying or doing. An autistic child may seem to withdraw into her own world.
Communication Delays
Children diagnosed with autism may struggle with verbal and non-verbal issues. Verbal communication may be delayed or absent, or conversation may be very stilted and disconnected. Nonverbal communication, such as eye contact or understanding tone of voice, may be compromised. Unusual speech patterns, gestures and facial expressions may also effect some autistic children.
Repetitive Symptoms
Autistic children may display repetitive movements such as rocking, spinning or hand flapping. They may play with the same toy over and over. They may be very resistant to change or develop an unusual attachment to certain objects or toys.
