What is Autism?
Autism is a neurological development disorder that affects three main areas of the brain:
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Social Interaction
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Communication
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Sensory
Cognitive and intellectual abilities can vary from mentally disabled to above average intelligence and savant. Those with autism are neither all gifted nor all mentally impaired.
Autism - Social/Communication Red Flags
If your baby shows any of these signs, please ask your pediatrician or family practitioner for an immediate evaluation:
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No big smiles or other warm, joyful expressions by six months or thereafter
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No back-and-forth sharing of sounds, smiles, or other facial expressions by nine months or thereafter
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No babbling by 12 months
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No back-and-forth gestures, such as pointing,reaching, or waving by 12 months
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No words by 16 monthsNo two-word meaningful phrases (without imitating or repeating) by 24 months
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Any loss of speech or babbling or social skills at any age
Signs of Asperger Syndrome:
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Difficulty making friends
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Difficulty with non-verbal social cues, such as facial expressions
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No understanding that others may have thoughts or feelings different from his or her own
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Obsessive focus on a narrow subject
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Awkward motor skills
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Inflexibility about routines
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Unusual patterns of speech
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Stereotyped or repetitive patterns of behaviors, interests, or activities
Can also have low muscle tone, gastrointestinal problems and anxiety.
If you have any concerns about your child’s development, consult a physician as soon as possible.
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