Autism, which is more formally referred to as autism spectrum disorder or autistic disorder, is a brain development disorder that can occur in children. An estimate provided by the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke indicates that at least three in every 1,000 children throughout the United States have an autism spectrum disorder.
Social Impairment
The primary sign of autism in a child is poor social interaction. Children with autism frequently withdrawal from group situations or activities and prefer to play alone. If your child has autism, he can have difficulty relating to other children his own age or may not understand another child's emotional response, such as laughing or crying. Your child can appear to lack empathy and can experience difficulty expressing his own feelings or emotions. You may find that your child does not like to be held and may consistently push you away whenever you attempt to hug her or show her affection, explains the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Communication Difficulties
If your child has autism, he may begin exhibiting communication difficulties before he turns 3 years old. He may not respond when you call his name or may avoid eye contact when you are speaking to him. An autistic child can experience severe language delays and may not speak at the same level as another child that is her own age. She may have difficulty expressing herself verbally or be unable to explain what she needs or wants. Your autistic child can have difficulty following instructions and may not acknowledge you when you enter his room or begin speaking to him. Children with this condition are frequently uncooperative and may throw violent temper tantrums, warn professionals at the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development.
Patterned Behavior
A child with autism may frequently engage in repetitive or patterned behaviors because of this condition. You may notice that your child abnormally repeats certain words or actions throughout the day. He may pace back and forth in his bedroom or echo particular phrases that you say to him. Your child may exhibit abnormal or unusual reactions to sensory stimulants, such as smells or tastes. An autistic child can often have a particular way of organizing her belongings that---if interfered with or moved---can elicit an intense tantrum. Your child may also respond poorly to changes in routine, such as getting up earlier or eating a meal at a different location.
