If you have a child that you suspect may be on the autism spectrum, you could be right. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 1 in 54 children are diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder. This is a much higher number than a decade ago. If you aren’t sure about whether your child is autistic, then you probably want to know the symptoms of autism. By becoming aware of the symptoms, you can enroll your child in early intervention autism treatment programs to ensure they get the best care for the future.
What is Autism?
Autism is characterized by a set of symptoms that can range from mild to severe. It is also called autism spectrum disorder. Web MD defines autism as a “complicated condition that includes problems with communication and behavior. It can involve a wide range of symptoms and skills. ASD can be a minor problem or a disability that needs full-time care in a special facility.” The autism symptoms vary from person to person too. Everyone responds differently, and if a child participates in autism therapy programs, then they may cope better than others.
What Are the Symptoms of Autism?
The symptoms of autism range as stated above, but they do tend to fall into one of the main categories listed below:
Social interaction symptoms
These symptoms involve your child not knowing how to relate to other people. They may have a hard time with group play, imaginative play, and knowing appropriate responses to someone who is upset or hurt.
Communication
Children struggle to communicate with their peers and may talk obsessively about one thing or speak in a flat, monotone voice. They also may repeat the same word or phrase over and over (echolalia)
Unusual interests or behavior
Autistic children often have one main obsession. They may learn everything there is to know about that one thing and want to talk about it all the time.
Kids on the spectrum also have other autism symptoms, such as ADHD, anxiety, impulsiveness, lack of emotional regulation, sensory processing disorder, and unusual responses to things.
Find Help For Your Child
Discover help for your child by contacting an autism spectrum disorder treatment center. You’ll see how treatment programs make a big difference for your child.
Professional therapists will use evidence-based therapies to make sure your child is progressing in the program. Compassionate therapists give help with how to deal with the disorder. In addition, parents will go through training to gain a deeper understanding about what to expect from their child. They’ll also learn various strategies that work in aiding their child at home. This parent autism training program will make the home more livable.
Your child will also benefit from an autism education program, which provides your child with the tools they need to cope and be successful.
As parents, children, and therapists work together, you will witness growth. Your child will have more self-confidence as they have more positive experiences with others. You’ll both witness many results, such as:
- Less symptoms
- Improvements with cognitive functioning
- Enhanced living skills
- Strengthened social skills and interactions
- Improved ability to function and participate in the community
Therapy programs will also provide much-needed assistance to parents dealing with their children. At a reputable autism treatment center, you can expect to find resources to assist in the learning process.
Don’t let your child’s autism spectrum disorder diagnosis get in the way of a peaceful life. Now that you know more about the symptoms of autism, you can reach out to a qualified autism spectrum disorder treatment, and get the help you need today.