A word like autism can be a scary prospect for
parents. However, with approximately 1 in 68 children having an autism
diagnosis, it’s important for parents to educate themselves. If you see the
early signs in your child, don’t worry, a bit of planning can go a long
way.
Defining Autism
The first thing you need to know about autism
is what it is. According to the American Psychological Association, autism is
a neurodevelopmental disorder that can be recognized by social communication
impairments and repetitive and restrictive patterns concerning behavior, interests,
or activities.
This definition is broad by construction. This
is because autism isn’t a singular diagnosis. Rather, the diagnosis is autism
spectrum disorder (ASD). In other words, autism exists on a spectrum meaning
that individuals with autisms may present very differently from one another.
Autism and Other Problems
Autism can come along with other emotional and
behavioral problems that aren’t always at a diagnosable level but are a
challenge to an autistic individual all the same. For instance, the same study
on autism by the APA noted the following using parent report questionnaires;
●
59% of 5-year-olds that place on
the spectrum show signs of hyperactivity
●
70% of individuals with ASD aged 5
to 17 struggle with emotional problems
●
70% of individuals with ASD aged 5
to 17 meet criteria for one psychiatric disorder
●
40% of individuals with ASD aged 5
to 17 meet criteria for more than one psychiatric disorder
Individuals with autism are also typically
sensitive to sensory input and, as such, sensory overload anxiety is prevalent. While loud noises and
bright lights might bother any individual, they will oftentimes affect
individuals with ASD with a higher severity. Even smaller sensory inputs such
as an itchy tag on a sweater can give someone with ASD severe discomfort and
anxiety.
What Are Some of the Signs of Autism?
It’s important for parents to keep an eye out
for signs of autism in their children. These include signs of social,
cognitive, and communication impairments as well as repetitive behavior
patterns. Autism
Speaks notes the following as signs of autism;
At 6 months:
●
Not many warm and engaging
expressions (i.e. big smiles)
●
Little to no eye contact.
At 9 months:
●
No back-and-forth sounds or
responsive expressions
At 12 months:
●
Little to no babbling
●
Little to no engaging gestures
(i.e. waving, pointing, reaching, etc.)
●
Little to no response when their
name is said or called
At 16 months:
●
A lack of one-word phrases used
At 24 months:
●
A lack of original two-word
phrases (repetition may be present)
There are also a number of signs that might
present at any age, such as;
●
Lack of eye contact
●
Consistent choice of solitude
rather than interaction with peers or others
●
Trouble understanding others’
emotions
●
Delayed development of language or
social skills
●
Echolalia (repetition of phrases
or words)
●
Struggle with even minor changes
in routines, daily patterns, or surroundings
●
A restriction of interests
●
Stims (repetitive behaviors such
as rocking, spinning, flapping arms, etc.)
●
Strong or unusual reactions to sensory
input
●
Any regression of social or
language skills
What Should a Parent Do If They Notice These Signs?
If a parent sees these signs showing up in
their young child, they shouldn’t try to make a diagnosis themselves. Instead,
they should discuss their concerns with their child’s pediatrician just like
any other health issue.
While signs might appear as early as 6 months,
most doctors won’t make a diagnosis until the child is at least 18 months to 2
years old.
What Causes Autism?
Right now, there isn’t a factor that can be
isolated and pointed out as the cause of ASD. There are signs of a genetic link
in autism. It isn’t unheard of or even uncommon for there to be multiple cases
of ASD to exist in one family. In fact, if one sibling has ASD, it’s likely
that the other one might place on the spectrum as well.
There is a persistent fear in many parents that
the vaccinations that children need when they are young might lead to the
development of autism. However, this fear is unfounded and even been proved
wrong by many scientists.
How Do Parents Plan Going Forward?
After a child is diagnosed, it’s important to
come up with a plan to help them have a fulfilling life. In day-to-day life,
parents can do things such as communicating with teachers and other guardians
as well as developing a routine for their child. There is plenty of research to
be found that can help create a guideline and you can tailor these guidelines
to your child in particular.
It’s also important to note that the
day-to-day plan for your child will probably change over time. Just like any
child, they will grow and change over the years and the plan will have to
develop with that.
As a parent, there are also certain long-term
plans you have to make in the best interest of your child.
First, you will want to consider guardianship
which is crucial when your child is young as well as while they transition into
adulthood at 18. In addition, though, you will want to name a guardian that can
help your child in the case of your passing. If full guardianship isn’t what
your adult child needs, having powers of attorney for them might be more
appropriate which will allow you to make specific types of decisions for your
child such as healthcare or financial decisions.
While it may be a little morbid, it is crucial
to plan for your child in the case of your own passing. Choosing a guardian to
help your child through this time is a good first step. You may also want to
leave a letter of intent as a roadmap for this guardian as well as a will to provide
for your child.
