By Katie Johnson
Overview
Autism, which is a developmental disorder of the brain, can be spotted within the first 3 years of a child's life. Concerned parents should seek pediatric evaluation if they believe their child is showing signs of autism. Treatment is available for children of every age, and early diagnosis can help to improve the quality of life for the entire family.
Earliest Indicators
Failure to smile by 6 months tends to be the first indicator of autism. Another early sign is failure to babble by 12 months.
Speech
It is normal for children to start speaking single words by 16 months, then advancing onto word phrases by age 2. Autistic children have difficulty doing either and often remain silent.
Response
Many autistic children fail to respond when their names are called and even appear to be hearing impaired at certain times.
Toys
Autistic toddlers very often feel an obsessive need to line up toys or other objects. They might also have difficulty understanding how to play with certain toys.
Social Signs
Socializing can be uncomfortable for autistic children. They might show no interest in peers and might prefer to remain on their own. Autistic children might also avoid physical contact.
Early Symptoms of Autism by autism-symptoms.net