Autism Signs and Symptoms

The symptoms of autism in children will vary dramatically. Two children may have the same diagnosis of autism but may act differently and have different skills. If a child has autism they may develop as a normal child would for the first few months or even years of their life. Later on they may become less socially active with others and even their parents. Here are some of the signs of autism in the areas of language, behavior, and social skills:

Language Symptoms:

Will not develop verbally at the same pace other children will
Will forget words and sentences that they have already learned
Difficulties starting and maintaining conversation
Abnormal speech patterns
Not making eye contact while speaking or asking a question
May copy phrases that they've heard but will not use them properly.

Behavior Symptoms:

Constant movement and fidgeting
Performs specific routines and or rituals
A high sensitivity to light and noise
Becomes angry at small changes in routines and or rituals
Performs repetitive movements.

Social Symptoms:

Will not respond to his or her name
Ignoring or appearing not to hear when someone is talking to them
Lacks and dislikes affection
Prefers playing alone
Is unaware of others feelings
Does not make eye contact

Young children with autism may have difficulties sharing experiences and emotions with others. For example, while reading a book the child may not perform normal interactions like pointing to pictures and words in the book. This is a common and crucial skill that children develop early that is critical for later social and language development. Some children, as they get older and mature, may gain social skills and be able to maintain relationships with others. Children with cases of autism that are not severe may eventually lead normal or close to normal lives. Children with severe cases of autism, however, will continue to have severe social problems and language skills. The adolescent years can worsen the behavior problems.

Some children with autism have normal and extremely high intelligence. These children will learn very quickly but will have trouble communicating, applying what they have learned, and adjusting in certain social situations. Some children may be "autistic savants" and will have exceptional skills in a specific area, like math or art.