Autism is usually diagnosed by the time a child is 3 years old, and may be diagnosed as early as age 18 months. A diagnosis of autism, or an Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), is based on observation of behavior, not on the results of a medical test. It is therefore important that parents and caregivers be aware of the developmental milestones a normally developing child should reach at all stages of development and be able to identify the early signs, or “red flags” that may indicate a developmental delay or signs of an ASD.
Of course, all children should be watched to determine if they are reaching developmental milestones at the appropriate times, but children who have a sibling or parent with an autism spectrum disorder should be watched more closely.
Autism is treatable, and, like other disorders, early detection is key to obtaining timely and effective treatment. Since normally developing children aged 2 to 3 are experiencing a marked increase in language use and becoming more adroit in their motor skills, signs such as a delay in or lack of spoken language or repetitive mannerisms such as twirling objects or hand-flapping are “red flags” of autism symptoms at this age.
Normal development at ages 2 to 3 also includes an interest in playing “make believe” games and playing “pretend.” A lack of this type of play may be a symptom of autism, as may be detachment, such as not maintaining eye contact or appearing not to be aware of being spoken to.
Other possible symptoms of autism at this age include a fixation on objects, a lack of interest in peer relationships, or an inability to adapt to change of routine. Unwillingness for physical contact is also a possible symptom of autism.
It is important for parents to remember that not all children meet developmental milestones (such as talking) at the prescribed guidelines and that not all signs of autism are necessary to suggest evidence of this disorder need to be present in order to warrant further testing.
What if I Suspect Autism?
The first step in obtaining treatment for autism is to obtain a diagnosis, and you should start with your pediatrician. He or she may then refer you to a specialist, and you should also educate yourself of the signs and treatment of this disorder.
The American Autism Society’s website, at http://www.autism-society.org, is a great place for starting your research, as is the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s autism overview page, located at www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/autism/.