Early Signs of Autism

by Valerie Dejean

The majority of the children seen at the Spectrum Center are under the age of five, with many of these under the age of three. A typical history is a failure to develop, or a regression in the development of language. The majority of families report normal development during the first year. In retrospect they may recall certain sensitivities to touch, movement, light, and sound, which became more severe later. They may also recall some delay in gestural communication, such as "waving bye-bye", or playing peek-a-boo, however these symptoms were not sufficient to cause alarm for most families. Some parents feel, however that they always had an uneasy feeling, yet were reassured by doctor's and other family members. In some history's there are reports of severe colic, severe sensitivities, and poor eye contact since infancy.

When symptoms are absent or minimal in the first year, families report significant changes in behavior during the second year. Language that was developing, suddenly or gradually stops. Parents report they will hear a word, never to hear it again. Words and phrases that were well established fade away. There is often a change in eye contact and level of engagement. Play becomes aimless or repetitive in nature. Often sensory sensitivities emerge or become more severe. Behavior often becomes more rigid or inflexible. The children may become very upset if there is a change in routine. Temper tantrums often become more frequent and severe in nature as the child has no language to communicate their needs. There is often a change in eating habits as the children become increasingly picky and limited in what they will eat.

Another significant history is of frequent ear infections...

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