Autism Baby

By Diane Griffith, HealthAtoZ writer



From the moment she's born, you worry. You count her fingers and toes and listen at night to make sure she's breathing. You may even worry that she isn't developing like other babies.

If you feel in your gut that your child's development is delayed, trust your instincts. Many pediatricians won't diagnose autism (also known as autism spectrum disorder or ASD) too early, since children tend to develop at different rates. Remember, though, that no one knows your baby like you do. If you're concerned, tell your doctor and request an evaluation.

Autism spectrum disorder

No two children with ASD behave the same, but some common problems are:

Social skills. Some autistic children don't want to cuddle or be held. They don't interact with others, make eye contact or notice when people are talking to them.
Learning skills. Some children with ASD learn harder skills before easier ones. They may be able to read long words, but not understand what sound a letter makes. They may learn a new skill, but then forget it.
Communication skills. Approximately 40 percent of children with ASD don't speak. Others repeat what they hear, but can't answer questions. When speaking, they may stand too close, speak too loudly or talk about the same subject constantly. They may be able to speak, but not to listen.
Repetition. Some children with ASD need to repeat certain actions. They like routine and resist change. If a child is used to brushing his teeth before putting on his pajamas, he may become upset if asked to put on his pajamas first and then brush his teeth.
Recognizing autism in your child

Ask yourself these questions about your baby:

Does she know her name? By a few months of age, does she look at you when you call her name? Children with ASD respond only about 20 percent of the time. Some parents mistake this for a hearing loss.
Does he point things out? Does your one-year-old follow your gaze, look where you point or show you his toys? When something catches his eye, does he point it out to you? Children with ASD generally don't.
Is she a mimic? Does your 8- to 10-month-old repeat sounds and hand movements, like pat-a-cake and "so big?" Babies with ASD don't imitate others.
Does he pretend? Does your one-year-old like to pretend? Does he make believe he's feeding you or pretend his bowl is a hat? A child with ASD would rather play with his hands or a piece of string than pretend, or turn a car upside down and spin the wheels rather than pretend to drive it.
Does she understand emotions? Does your child smile back when smiled at? Does she laugh and smile when playing? If you cry, will she cry, too, or try to comfort you by patting you on the arm or back? Children with ASD usually don't respond to the emotions of others.
Other signs of ASD

No big smiles by age 6 months
No babbling by age one
No words by 16 months
No two-word phrases (unless repeating a phrase) by age two
Loss of speech, babbling or social skills at any age
If you suspect ASD, ask your pediatrician for a developmental screening. There's no known cure for ASD, but early intervention can help children to talk, interact, play, learn and care for themselves. The earlier the diagnosis, the sooner treatment can begin, and the more progress your child can make.