Does my Child have Autism?
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a complex developmental condition that affects social interactions, speech and nonverbal communication, and restricted/repetitive behaviors. Autism is known as a “spectrum” disorder because there is a wide variation in the type and severity of symptoms. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, one in 59 children is estimated to have autism.
Children with Autism might show some of the following symptoms:
- Avoids eye contact
- Does not respond to name
- Prefers not to be held or cuddled
- Does not point to objects to show interest or does not look at objects when another person points to them
- Repeats words or phrases said to them
- Has trouble expressing their needs
- Does not pretend play
- Repeats actions over and over again
- Having unusual and sometimes intense reactions to the way things smell, taste, feel and/or look
There is no one test that can detect Autism, rather several screening instruments are used to help with the diagnosis. One such screening tool is known as the MCHAT: Modified Checklist for Autism in Toddlers, Revised, which is designed to identify children 16 to 30 months of age who should receive a more thorough assessment. You can take this screening tool here.
If there is a concern that your Child is showing possible signs of Autism, then a diagnostic evaluation should be performed. A diagnostic evaluation should involve an interview and play-based testing performed by a psychologist, development-behavioral pediatrician or child psychiatrist.