Signs of Autism

If you suspect your child may be showing signs of autism, recognizing the early indicators can make all the difference in ensuring they receive the appropriate support. Here are some common signs to watch for:

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects how a child thinks, interacts, and experiences the world around them. While the symptoms and severity of autism can vary greatly from child to child, early identification is key to providing the support needed for the child’s development. At Aucoin & Associates, we understand the importance of early intervention and offer comprehensive assessments and therapeutic services to support children and families affected by autism.

• Limited eye contact: A child with autism may avoid making eye contact during conversations or playtime, which can make interactions feel distant or disconnected.
• Difficulty understanding social cues: They may struggle with nonverbal cues such as facial expressions, body language, or tone of voice. This may lead to misunderstandings in social situations.
• Challenges with reciprocal conversation: Children may not engage in back-and-forth exchanges in conversation. Instead, they may talk about a subject they are interested in without acknowledging or responding to others’ contributions.
• Difficulty forming relationships: While some children with autism may seem uninterested in socializing, others may desire friendships but struggle to connect appropriately with peers.
• Repetitive movements or speech: Children may engage in repetitive actions such as hand-flapping, rocking, or repeating certain phrases or sounds. This is often a way for them to self-regulate or cope with sensory overload.
• Strict routines and resistance to change: Many children with autism thrive on predictability and routines. A minor change in their environment or schedule can lead to significant distress or frustration.
• Intense focus on specific interests: Children with autism may develop an intense, narrow interest in a particular topic or activity (e.g., trains, dinosaurs, or a specific TV show). They may spend a disproportionate amount of time focused on this interest, often to the exclusion of other activities or social interactions.
• Hypersensitivity (over-sensitivity): A child may be overly sensitive to lights, sounds, textures, or smells. For example, they may cover their ears to block out noises or avoid certain clothing textures because they feel uncomfortable.
• Hyposensitivity (under-sensitivity): Alternatively, a child may seem unaware of sensory stimuli. They may not react to loud sounds, temperature changes, or pain, which can sometimes be concerning to parents or caregivers.
• Delayed speech and language development: Children with autism may begin speaking later than their peers or may have difficulty using language for communication. Some children may be nonverbal or have limited vocabulary, while others may develop language skills but struggle with using it appropriately in social contexts.
• Lack of pretend play: Children typically engage in imaginative play by mimicking everyday activities or creating fantasy scenarios. In children with autism, there may be a noticeable absence of pretend play or a preference for repetitive activities rather than imaginative ones.

While the signs of autism can be subtle or vary in intensity, it’s important to remember that early identification and intervention can make a significant difference in a child’s development. If you notice any of the above signs in your child, we recommend seeking a professional evaluation. At Aucoin & Associates, we offer comprehensive diagnostic services and tailored treatment plans to support children and families affected by autism. Our team of experts works closely with families to develop strategies that enhance the child’s strengths and address challenges.

Remember, every child with autism is unique. With the right support, children with autism can thrive and lead fulfilling lives. If you have concerns or need guidance, please contact us to schedule a consultation or learn more about the services we offer.

Written by Dr. Donna Aucoin, Ph.D., MP