Many parents may have suspicions their child is autistic, but might not be certain of what exactly to look out for, so one expert has shared five key signs he thinks caregivers should be aware of. Conor McDonagh, an expert in autism assessments and support, specified that children between 12 and 36 months can exhibit signs of autism, including sensory processing difficulties, repetitive behaviors like hand flapping or rocking, delayed speech, lack of interest in other children, and difficulties communicating through gestures. NHS and the National Autistic Society also list signs such as not responding to name, avoiding eye contact, not smiling, getting upset over certain stimuli, repetitive movements, delayed speech, lack of pretend play, and difficulties with social interaction and communication.
Conor explained that signs of autism can manifest in children as young as two years old, but not everyone is diagnosed early on. Some common indicators he mentioned include sensory processing difficulties, repetitive behaviors, delayed speech, lack of interest in playing with other children, and difficulties in expressing themselves. He emphasized the importance of parents observing their children’s behaviors and seeking professional assessment if necessary. The National Autistic Society notes that children with autism may exhibit behaviors such as resistance to change, repetitive activities, and challenging behaviors like biting or self-injury.
The expert highlighted the importance of understanding the signs of autism in young children and how they may present differently from child to child. The emphasis was placed on early diagnosis and intervention to provide appropriate support and strategies to help the child navigate their world. NHS and National Autistic Society also provided additional signs of autism, which include resistance to change, repetitive behaviors, emerging social interaction difficulties, and challenging behaviors. It is noted that not all children with autism will exhibit the same signs, and some may not be diagnosed until later in life.
Conor’s advice on recognizing signs of autism in toddlers aims to help parents and caregivers identify potential indicators that their child may be autistic. By observing behaviors related to sensory processing difficulties, repetitive movements, delayed speech, lack of interest in playing with other children, and difficulties in communicating through gestures, parents can seek early intervention and support for their child. The information provided by Conor, alongside guidance from NHS and National Autistic Society, can help caregivers navigate the process of identifying autism and accessing appropriate resources and therapies for their child.
The importance of early recognition and assessment of autism in toddlers is crucial in providing tailored support and interventions for children with the condition. By being aware of the signs and symptoms, parents and caregivers can work with healthcare professionals to develop strategies and therapies that can help the child thrive in their environment. The collaboration between experts like Conor McDonagh, healthcare organizations like NHS, and advocacy groups such as the National Autistic Society can contribute to improved outcomes for children with autism and their families by promoting early diagnosis and intervention. Parents are encouraged to seek guidance and support if they have concerns about their child’s development or behavior.
