Autism is a complex disorder of the brain, according to Helpguide.org, and its causes are not fully understood by the medical community. This disorder affects a child's ability to play, interact and speak with others. The sooner the symptoms of this disorder is recognized, the sooner treatment can begin.
Social Signs
Every parent looks forward to baby's first smile. The website Autism Speaks explains that if you do not receive that smile by the time your infant is 6 months old, or anytime after that, she may be at risk for autism. Children with autism have a difficult time understanding what others are feeling, according to Helpguide.org. If you attempt to hold or cuddle your child and she stiffens her body and pulls away from you, you may want to have her tested, especially if she is a toddler.
Another social sign is a blatant desire to play alone, even when other children are around. Most children, especially toddlers, are intrigued by others their age. Those with autism prefer to be alone--almost as if he is in his own world. You also may notice that your child does not make eye contact with you, even when you attempt to play games with her, such as patty-cake, or does not respond to her own name. These are all cause for concern and should not be ignored.
Communication Signs
Autism Speaks says most children are babbling by 12 months and imitating or repeating sounds by 24 months. If your child is not doing these things, he is at greater risk for autism. Speech is a large part of this disorder; many children with autism begin speaking later than other kids or do not speak at all. If your child does speak, you may notice that you cannot keep a conversation going with him or that, should he repeat certain words and phrases, he does not use them in the correct context.
Non-verbal communication is affected by autism as well. As Autism Speaks points out, if your toddler is not pointing at items he desires, such as his bottle or cup, or waving goodbye by the age of 9 months, he is most likely delayed and should be examined by his pediatrician.
Behavioral Signs
Many children show signs of anxiety when taken from people with whom they feel secure, such as Mommy or Daddy. This generally occurs when taken to a day care center or being left with an unfamiliar babysitter. If you notice your child has a dismissive attitude in these situations, she may be autistic, especially if this behavior is combined with other signs.
An autistic child prefers a set routine everyday, such as having her meals at a specific time, taking the same route to the park or going to bed at the time every evening. While routines are normal, the tantrums that follow should any of these routines be broken are not. She may begin rocking in place for long periods of time, screaming or hurting herself in various ways, as she appears impervious to physical pain.
She also may become fascinated with one particular toy during playtime, such as a doll or even the shoe of her doll. You usually wil lnotice that she can play for hours with this one item rather than jumping from toy to toy as most children do at her age.
