Obtaining an autism diagnosis can be difficult. You may suspect your child has autism before their pediatrician expresses concern. Being your young child’s advocate can be a challenge, especially if you are repeatedly told by experts to ignore your concerns.
Although it can be difficult to diagnose some children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) at a very early age (under two years) it is possible. You know your child best, and your concerns deserve to be heard and considered. At Stride Autism Centers, our goal is to partner with you on your child’s journey from diagnosis to therapy and beyond.
Together, we’ll talk about the early signs of ASD. We’ll also explore why early diagnosis of autism is important and can significantly improve outcomes for your child. Having a foundational understanding of what autism is is essential for helping you better understand its potential impact on your child.
What Is Autism
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurological and developmental disorder that affects how an individual behaves, communicates, and learns. Autism presents challenges in social skills, independent living, and understanding new concepts.
The term “spectrum” is included with this disorder because there is a wide variance in the presentation of autism-related symptoms. One person with ASD may be able to communicate verbally, for instance, while some people with autism may remain non-verbal throughout their lives.
Common Characteristics of Autism
There are numerous characteristics associated with ASD. Some of the most noteworthy include:
- Problems communicating and interacting with other people.
- Repetitive behaviors and speech.
- Limited interests.
- Inability to maintain a desirable level of independence at home, work, and school.
These difficulties may begin at a very early age, with many parents noticing symptoms in their toddlers. Early detection is important, and a parent’s concerns should never be dismissed without a thorough analysis of their child’s behaviors and development.
When Can Autism Be Diagnosed?
Research suggests that children may show symptoms of autism as early as 12-18 months of age. As their parent, you know your child’s behaviors best. If you notice patterns or changes in behavior sooner, it’s worth bringing it to your child’s pediatrician. However, it is important to note that developmental milestones can vary dramatically in the first two years of life. It can be difficult to receive a proper diagnosis for a very young child unless they exhibit extremely prominent symptoms.
Formal diagnosis can occur between 18-24 months of age. Some children may be diagnosed earlier if a particular developmental delay is noted, or if certain milestones are not reached.
Developmental Milestones To Note
Although missing a developmental milestone does not guarantee an ASD diagnosis, there are some milestones that may lead to a future diagnosis. Keep in mind that milestones vary. If your child doesn’t hit a milestone at exactly the expected age, it does not necessarily mean they will be diagnosed with ASD.
- Nine month milestones. By nine months of age, children should be able to express emotions like happiness and sadness with smiles and pouts. They should also be able to respond to their names.
- 12 months of age. By one year of age, children should be able to engage in games like peek-a-boo and patticake. Most children will also be able to use simple words to express themselves or ask for things they need, like water or snacks.
- 18 months of age. At 18 months of age children should respond by looking at an object or a person when it is pointed to.
- 24 months of age. At two years old a child begins to develop empathy, and will notice if another person is happy, hurt, or sad.
If your child has not yet reached these milestones and has exceeded the age for them, it’s a good idea to mention it to their pediatrician. You can also begin to look for early signs your child may have ASD.
Early Signs of Autism
Many parents are concerned that their child will miss a developmental milestone. While missing a milestone can be a sign of autism, there are usually more prominent autism-related symptoms that lead to diagnosing autism in a young child.
Looking For Signs
In babies and toddlers it can be challenging to look for signs of autism. There are, however, some key signs that may indicate a child has autism.
- Lack of eye contact. Most babies will begin to make eye contact with loved ones or care providers at around three months of age.
- Delayed speech. Speech delays do not always indicate autism, but if your child has trouble communicating with words and/or hand gestures by age two, there could be cause for concern.
- Repetitive actions. Rocking, headbanging, flapping hands, spinning, snapping fingers or repeating words can all be signs of autism.
These delays and behaviors can occur in children who do not have autism, but if you notice them, it is a good idea to mention it to your child’s pediatrician.
How Autism is Diagnosed in Young Children
Getting an early diagnosis can be extremely beneficial for your child. Typically, a diagnosis of autism starts at your child’s pediatrician. Your child’s pediatrician will screen them for autism at 18-24 months of age. If your child meets certain criteria, their pediatrician may refer you to a developmental pediatrician or to a specialist for a thorough diagnostic evaluation.
Autism Diagnostic Process
At Stride Autism Centers, we make the diagnostic process easy and comfortable. First, we ask that incoming parents and children fill out a short online screening form. From there, you can expect the diagnostic process at Stride to involve three separate appointments.
- Psychologist and Caregiver interview. At your first appointment, you’ll meet with our psychologist to discuss your child’s developmental milestones, medical history, and voice your concerns.
- Formal Assessment. At your next visit, your child will undergo a formal assessment that includes observation and use of the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule, Second Edition (ADOS®-2).
- Feedback and Recommendations. After our team of developmental psychologists has reviewed the findings of your child’s screening, we’ll meet with you to discuss the results and determine next steps. We will also recommend a treatment plan for helping your child thrive.
Our team of Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs) help implement treatment plans to lay a foundation of success for your child. Getting an early diagnosis gives our BCBAs more time to work with your child and help establish positive behaviors that will last for a lifetime.
Why Early Diagnosis Matters
The early detection of ASD is foundational to an individual’s success. The sooner that resources and techniques like ABA therapy are introduced, the more time your child has to work on new skills, learn effective communication skills, and establish their independence.
Studies that follow individuals with autism from preschool age through adulthood have shown that early intervention with therapies like ABA help reduce autism symptoms and broadens intellectual ability years after the therapy has been completed.
What Should Parents Do if They Suspect Autism
If you suspect your child may be showing signs of autism, act now. Bring up your concerns to your child’s pediatrician. It may be helpful to keep a log of developmental milestones that are missed or behaviors and signs you notice.
If you do not feel you are being heard, consider contacting another professional. Resources are available to help support you and your child, and ensuring early detection is important if your child does indeed have autism. It’s also vital to your ability to help your child thrive to locate and utilize support networks of other families who have children with autism. This can help you avoid feelings of isolation and can help you build a network of support that will benefit both you and your child as they grow.
Early Detection: Important for Long Term Care
Autism may not always be diagnosable in very young children, but it often can be. The earlier you are able to get a child with autism diagnosed, the better chance they have of reducing autism symptoms and enjoying better communication and more independence. Stride Autism Centers is here to support families every step of the way. We can help you get the diagnosis your child needs and offer the ABA therapy and support that will help them thrive.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation. We can help whether or not your child has been formally diagnosed. We aim to help you understand all that your child is capable of doing and becoming, and it all starts with a visit to one of our conveniently located centers. Let us help you and your child understand their amazing abilities and learn the skills they need to lead a full and enjoyable life.
Sources:
Autism Spectrum Disorder – National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH)
When do children usually show symptoms of autism? | NICHD
Lack of Eye Contact in Autism|Very Well Health
Psychiatry.org – Understanding Stimming: Repetitive Behaviors with a Purpose
Early intervention improves long-term outcomes for children with autism | UW News
