Early detection of autism is critical for ensuring children get the support and services they need. The earlier autism is diagnosed, the earlier interventions can begin which can improve outcomes. Some signs of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) can be detected as early as infancy while others may emerge as a child develops. While the average age of diagnosis is around 4 years old, some children may show symptoms by 12 to 18 months of age. With increased awareness and screening, more children are being diagnosed before age 2.
What is autism spectrum disorder?
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a developmental disability caused by differences in the brain. It affects how a person communicates with and relates to other people, and how they experience the world around them. ASD is called a “spectrum” disorder because it affects each person differently and with varying degrees of severity.
Some key characteristics of ASD include:
– Difficulties with social communication and interaction
– Restricted interests, repetitive behaviors
– Sensitivity to sensory input
– Differences in cognition, learning, and attention
The main areas impacted are social skills, communication, behavior, and sensory processing. The way ASD presents can range from mild challenges to more significant disability. However, with early intervention and support, all people with ASD can lead fulfilling lives.
When can you detect early signs of autism?
Here is an overview of when early signs of autism may emerge:
6 months
Some early signs can be noticed as young as 6 months of age. At this age, a baby typically:
– Smiles when interacting with others
– Makes eye contact
– Begins to babble and copy sounds
– Shows interest in faces and voices
Early signs of autism may include reduced eye contact, lack of interest or joy in interacting with others, reduced babbling, and preference for solitude.
12 months
By 12 months, typical infants:
– Say a few single words like “dada” or “mama”
– Point to show interest in something
– Notice and imitate gestures of others
– Engage in back-and-forth social games like peekaboo
Early signs of autism can include:
– Lack of babbling
– Not pointing to share interest
– Poor eye contact
– Lack of response to name
– Not copying gestures
18 months
At 18 months, warning signs can include:
– Very few or no spoken words
– Not engaging in pretend play
– Not imitating actions or expressions
– Limited interest in other children or social interaction
– Poor eye contact
– Lack of response to their name
– Repetitive motions like rocking, spinning, or hand flapping
2 years
Clearer signs emerge around age 2 years when speech and social skills are expected to develop. Red flags include:
– Very limited or no speech
– Repetitive use of language and odd intonation
– Minimal interest in pretend play or imitating others
– Not pointing things out to show interest
– Poor eye contact and limited facial expressions
– Difficulty adjusting behavior to different situations
– Adverse or overly intense responses to sensory input like loud noises or textures
– Intense focus or attachment to unusual objects or topics
Screening and diagnosis
Professional screening is recommended if any developmental delays or warning signs are noticed. Here are some steps in the screening and diagnosis process:
Developmental screening
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends developmental screening for autism and general development at 9, 18, and 24 or 30 months old. The Modified Checklist for Autism in Toddlers (M-CHAT) is a common autism screening tool used at these ages. It involves filling out a questionnaire about the child’s behavior.
Comprehensive evaluation
If the screening indicates risk for ASD, the next step is a comprehensive evaluation involving:
– Developmental assessment – Evaluates skills like speech, motor, cognitive, and social functioning
– Hearing and vision tests – To rule out sensory issues causing symptoms
– Neurological testing – To assess brain structure and electrical activity
– Psychiatric assessment – To diagnose conditions like anxiety, ADHD which often occur with ASD
– Medical exam – To rule out medical causes of symptoms
Multidisciplinary diagnosis
ASD is diagnosed by experienced professionals including psychologists, psychiatrists, developmental pediatricians, and speech-language pathologists. The team considers:
– The child’s developmental history across multiple settings
– Results of evaluations
– Observations of the child’s communication, social interactions, and behaviors
They may make the diagnosis based on the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) criteria for autism spectrum disorder.
Early intervention
If ASD is diagnosed, enrolling in an early intervention program as soon as possible is crucial. Research shows starting services before age 3 leads to significantly improved outcomes. Programs like speech therapy, occupational therapy, and applied behavior analysis can help develop skills in:
– Communication
– Social interaction
– Adaptive behaviors like dressing and feeding
– Reducing challenging behaviors
With early individualized therapy, some children are able to transition into mainstream classrooms and gain independence in adulthood.
Takeaways
– Some signs of autism can be detected as early as 6 months old, with more identifiable signs emerging around 12 to 24 months old.
– Clear indicators are usually noticeable by age 2 when speech and social milestones are expected.
– Screening at regular well-child visits can help identify risks for ASD.
– If screening is positive, a comprehensive evaluation is needed to make a definitive diagnosis.
– Starting specialized intervention as early as possible once diagnosed leads to the best outcomes.
Detecting autism early and beginning treatment provides the best chance for children to gain critical skills. While some signs can be apparent in infancy, anytime parents have concerns about their child’s development, they should seek evaluation right away as early intervention is key. With the right support, people with autism have immense potential to lead meaningful, engaged lives.