Autism spectrum disorders vary in symptoms and severity, but all affect a child’s ability to communicate and interact with others. The number of children diagnosed with autism is rising, with the latest reports indicating 1 in 110, including 1 in 70 boys. This represents a 600% increase in the past 20 years. Autism is the fastest growing developmental disorder in the United States.
Children with autism generally have difficulties with three areas of development – social interaction, language, and behavior.
Social Interaction:
- Fails to respond to his/her name
- Has poor eye contact
- Resists cuddling and holding
- Does not use "pretend" play
- Doesn't point to objects to show interest
- Appears unaware of others’ feelings
- Prefers to play alone and/or appears to be in his/her “own” world
Language:
- Starts talking later than the age of 2 and has other delays in development
- Loses previously acquired ability to say words or sentences
- Doesn’t make eye contact when making requests
- Speaks with an abnormal tone or rhythm; speech may be robotic or sing-song
- Can’t start a conversation or keep one going
- May repeat words or phrases verbatim but doesn’t use them appropriately
Behavior:
- Performs repetitive movements
- Develops specific routines or rituals
- Becomes upset with changes in routine or rituals
- May be fascinated by parts of objects
- May have restrictive interests