The child’s doctor will give parents their evaluation of any concerns  he/she may see developing. Pay attention, take notes, and follow up with resources such as the CDC.

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is affecting 1 in 36 children according to reports by the CDC.   “Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a developmental disability that can cause significant social, communication and behavioral challenges. CDC is committed to continuing to provide essential data on ASD, search for factors that put children at risk for ASD and possible causes,and develop resources that help identify children with ASD as early as possible..” (www.cdc.gov)

One of the early signs of autism can be “toe walking” and inability to give “joint attention.”  A child that is delayed in walking, sitting up on their own, or talking may indicate a developmental delay that  may affect  daily life skills and should
be addressed with the child’s doctor.    A child that cannot tolerate a “no”  without a meltdown,  does not play one on one with other children, lack of imagination, repetitive behaviors, does not answer to  his/her name when called,  sleep problems, gastrointestinal problems, and/or does not follow directions, could be an indication of an ASD  diagnosis. Talk with the child’s doctor to inform them of any concerns that are not in line with a child’s  typical milestones of development and behavior.

If your child should have  ASD, early intervention/treatment is key to minimizing  negative behaviors and training the child to more positive /appropriate behaviors.  Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA)  is an important  therapy to help the child learn  daily life skills and how to  manage their behaviors, wants/needs.   The child’s doctor can  refer you to  a professional such as a Neurologist to  conduct an evaluation to determine if there are signs of ASD.  A Neurological Evaluation is the best means to  determine if an ASD diagnosis exists.   If so, the parent should contact  the Social Security Administration to  inform them of your child’s diagnosis.  There are programs and services that support children with ASD that can benefit the child.   See if you child qualifies for this program.