About Parents understandably worry about their child’s development. It may be that the child is the parents’ first and they don’t know what to expect or what constitutes normal development. They may be experienced parents who know that no two children develop alike, but who know that something is just not quite right about their child’s development.
Whatever the case, it is easy to pass off this worry as simply a normal part of parenting. It is easy to rationalize worry (“It’s just a stage.” “She’ll grow out of it.). However, trusting oneself to know one’s child is key here: if you have a concern, discuss it with your pediatrician. Parents must trust themselves with their concerns, listen to that voice of worry, get information, and take action.
Pediatricians are not with a child daily as parents are. Parents, then, are the first line of defense in determining whether a child may have developmental delays. Pediatricians rely on parents to relate information about the child’s development, through routine questionnaires and in answers to questions at an office visit.
If you have concerns about your child’s development, arrange an appointment for a routine developmental screening. Find and read credible research on autism signs and symptoms. Take note of your child’s behavior at home since those behaviors may not be repeated in an office setting.
Parents should remember that, while no one cause of autism has been discovered, it is not caused by parenting techniques. Just as a parent would not hesitate to bring to the pediatrician’s attention a skin rash that may or may not be something more serious, so should the parent be willing to discuss developmental concerns.
Above all, if you are concerned, act quickly. There are no medical tests to rule out autism, but any concerns you have may be cause for further testing and diagnosis. Early intervention is so important in a positive outcome for autistic children that the earlier a diagnosis can be made, the better.
As with any other concern you may have about your child, knowledge is power. Rather than worrying, take action, and discuss your concerns with your pediatrician right away.