Autism is a complex developmental condition that involves challenges with social interaction, speech and nonverbal communication, and restricted or repetitive behaviors. It is often referred to as Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) because it encompasses a wide range of symptoms and levels of disability. Individuals with autism may exhibit unique strengths and differences, which can vary significantly from person to person. Early diagnosis and intervention can greatly improve outcomes for individuals with autism.
What Is Autism Spectrum Disorder?
Neurodevelopmental condition affecting how the brain processes information
Impacts communication, social interaction, behavior, and sensory experiences
Called a "spectrum" because symptoms and severity vary widely from child to child
Every child with autism has unique strengths, challenges, and needs
How Common Is Autism?
1 in 31 children are diagnosed with ASD (CDC)
4 times more common in boys than girls
Diagnosis rates have increased due to better awareness and improved screening methods
Affects children of all races, ethnicities, and socioeconomic backgrounds
Signs and Symptoms to Watch For
Social and Communication Challenges
Avoids or makes limited eye contact
Difficulty understanding or using facial expressions and gestures
May resist physical affection like hugs or cuddling
Prefers to play alone rather than with other children
Struggles to start or keep conversations going
May not respond to their name by 12 months
Difficulty understanding others' feelings or sharing their own emotions
Repetitive Behaviors and Routines
Repetitive body movements such as rocking, spinning, or hand flapping
Lining up toys or objects in specific patterns
Becomes upset with small changes to routines or environment
Intense, focused interest in specific topics or objects
Repeating words or phrases (echolalia)
Insists on sameness and predictability in daily activities
Sensory Sensitivities
Hypersensitive (over-responsive): May cover ears at loud noises, avoid certain textures in food or clothing, find bright lights overwhelming
Hyposensitive (under-responsive): May not notice pain or temperature, seeks intense sensory experiences like spinning or crashing
Unusual reactions to sounds, lights, textures, tastes, or smells
May seek out or avoid certain sensory inputs
Developmental Milestones
Speech and language delays (not speaking by 16 months or no two-word phrases by 24 months)
Loss of previously acquired speech or social skills at any age
Delayed motor skills or unusual movement patterns
When Do Symptoms Appear?
Some signs can be observed as early as 12 months or younger
Symptoms may become more noticeable between 18-24 months
Some children may not show obvious signs until preschool or school age
Diagnosis is possible from 18 months, though average age of diagnosis is around 4 years
Risk Factors
Genetic and Biological Factors
Having a sibling with autism increases likelihood
Certain genetic conditions (Fragile X syndrome, Rett syndrome, tuberous sclerosis)
Boys are diagnosed four times more often than girls
Other Factors
Children born to older parents may have slightly higher risk
Premature birth or very low birth weight
Family history of autism or related conditions
Understanding Support Levels
Level 1 - Requiring Support
Can speak in complete sentences and interact with others
Struggles with back-and-forth conversation and making friends
Difficulty switching between activities
Needs help organizing and planning to maintain independence
Level 2 - Requiring Substantial Support
More noticeable challenges in verbal and nonverbal communication
Limited social interactions, even with support
Difficulty coping with changes in routine
Repetitive behaviors that interfere with daily functioning
Level 3 - Requiring Very Substantial Support
Severe difficulties with verbal and nonverbal communication
Very limited social engagement and response to others
Extreme difficulty handling changes
Repetitive behaviors significantly limit functioning across settings
Requires intensive, ongoing support throughout the day.
When to Seek an Evaluation
Contact your pediatrician or a specialist if your child:
Doesn't respond to their name by 12 months
Doesn't point at objects to show interest by 14 months
Doesn't engage in pretend play by 18 months
Avoids eye contact or prefers to be alone
Has delayed speech or language skills
Repeats words or phrases without meaningful use
Gets unusually upset by minor changes
Has unusual reactions to sensory experiences
Shows any loss of previously learned skills
Important Facts for Parents
Autism is not caused by parenting: It's a neurological condition present from birth
No two children with autism are alike: Each child has their own profile of strengths and challenges
Early intervention makes a difference: The earlier support begins, the better the outcomes
Children with autism can thrive: With appropriate support, therapy, and understanding, children with ASD can lead fulfilling lives
You are not alone: Support groups, resources, and communities of parents are available to help
Next Steps
If you have concerns about your child's development, trust your instincts and reach out for a professional evaluation. Early diagnosis opens the door to interventions, therapies, and support services that can significantly improve your child's quality of life and developmental trajectory.