Do you have an autistic child?
Autism, or autistic disorder, is a neurodevelopment disorder that affects social interaction and communication. Some researches estimate that three to six children out of every one thousand will have autism. Boys are estimated to be four times more likely to have autism than girls.
Autism generally appears within the first three years of a child’s life. Parents or caretakers will typically notice abnormalities in the child’s social interactions at a fairly young age. Autistic babies may not focus on faces and may not smile. Young autistic children may not participate in normal babbling associated with that age. Additionally, young children may not point to get someone’s attention and may not follow other’s gaze or social cues.
Autistic children may exhibit other symptoms such as:
- Difficulties with imaginative play
- Difficulties with social interaction
- Difficulties with change in routine or schedule
- Intense attention to limited subjects or activities
- Lack of eye contact
- Does not smile
- Repetitive behaviors or body movements
- Does not respond to their name
- Late in language development
- Excessive tantrums.
- Has trouble referring to themselves correctly
- Prefers to play independently rather than with others
- Repeat phrases from books, movies or commercials.
Symptoms in autistic children with vary from mild to severe. Although there is no known cure for autism, symptoms often improve with age and treatment. Early diagnosis and treatment is preferable for autistic children. Treatment options include education and behavior therapies, occupational therapy, speech and language therapy and medications to treat some mental health conditions (such as depression, anxiety and obsessive-compulsive disorder). Some autistic children appear to respond well to a gluten-free diet or casein-free diet. Not all medical professionals agree on the effectiveness of dietary changes.
Scientists and medical professionals continue to study autism, its causes and treatment results. Although autistic children will likely continue to have some symptoms through out their lifetime, many people with autism can live independently or with family.
It may be helpful for parents of autistic children to connect to other parents and families with the same medical condition. FacetoFace Health offers secure support groups where members may anonymously ask others questions about their experiences including symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment results.
FacetoFace Health Autistic Children Support Group
Cited References and Additional Resources:
National Mental Health Information Center
National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke
Google Health
Mayo Clinic