Autism manifests itself in different ways and to varying degrees.While some autistic children may struggle with communication and social interaction, others may have exceptional abilities in areas such as math, music, or art.
It’s important to recognize that every child is unique, and that understanding and supporting their individual needs and strengths is key to helping them thrive.
But how do you know if your child even has autism?
It is possible to detect autism signs in young children as early as 18 months. Here are some common indications that your child or a child you love is on the autism spectrum:
- Communication
Individuals with autism often have differences in communication, particularly with pragmatic language, which can result in delays in speech development and nonverbal communication.
- Rituals
Autistic children may exhibit ritualistic behaviors, such as repeatedly eating the same foods, watching the same videos, engaging in self stimulatory behavior and relying on consistency and predictability with day to day events.
- Body Language
Individuals with autism are successful with direct and clear communication. They may struggle to understand nonverbal communication and tend to avoid eye contact. This can create challenges interpreting facial expressions, physical gestures, and body language.
- Repetition
Autistic children may display repetitive behaviors as a means to self regulate and cope with the demands of life in a neurotypical dominant world. Repetitive behaviors can include various body movements like spinning, hand flapping, body rocking etc. Repetition can also show up verbally through repeating words, phrases or scripts. Autistic kids may also interact with toys in highly structured and methodical ways.
- Tone
It is not uncommon for autistic children to have difficulties in modulating their tone of voice, resulting in speaking too loudly or too quietly, or even with a monotone voice.
If you suspect that your child has autism, it’s advisable to consult your healthcare provider ASAP, as early interventions can have a significant impact on your child’s overall wellbeing and growth.
The most effective early intervention for autistic children is ABA therapy. Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy is a type of evidence-based therapy that focuses on using positive reinforcement to teach and reinforce effective behaviors and skills in children with autism.
Delivered by Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBA), ABA therapy plans are custom-tailored to suit every child’s unique needs and goals, making ABA a crucial component in the child’s support system.
Get To Know Advanced Behavior Analysis Team
At Advanced Behavior Analysis, we are proud to offer ABA therapy services in Salt Lake, Wasatch, and Summit Counties. With a team of compassionate, highly-skilled, and experienced BCBAs in our corner, we are equipped with the knowledge and tools needed to design, implement, and oversee effective ABA programs. Contact us today to chat with our behavior analysts and learn more about ABA therapy interventions for your child!
