Autism has a wide variety of symptoms that can range from mild to severe. Autism or Autistic Spectrum Disorder (ASD) can be misdiagnosed. Classic autism has a core of symptoms that include:
-Impaired ability to engage socially
-Impaired ability to initiate or maintain a conversation
-Inability to play appropriately or use imagination
-Stereotyped, unusual, repetitive use of language or behavior (flapping, spinning)
-Abnormal or intense focus on certain subjects or objects
-Inflexible adherence to certain routines and rituals
Continue Reading June 25th, 2007
For children with autism, communicating with others can be quite a challenge. Verbal and nonverbal communication skills can be impaired, making everyday interaction a difficult task for the child, his peers, and family. Facial expressions, tone of voice, gestures, and eye contact can all be affected by autism.
Autism can present itself early on in a child’s life. Around 18 months, parents may notice that their child doesn’t make eye contact, or enjoy interactive social games (peek-a-boo, pat-a-cake). A young child with autism may not babble or point to objects, which are milestones that most children reach by their first birthday. The child may not smile or try to imitate sounds, leading to a delay in his speech development.
Continue Reading June 3rd, 2007