What Are The Early Warning Signs Of Autism?

Every child develops at their own pace. However, some parents may notice differences in their child’s social communication skills or behavior. If you’re concerned about the possibility of autism, familiarizing yourself with the early warning signs can be a valuable first step.

In today’s blog, you’ll explore common early warning signs of autism, including social communication challenges, repetitive behaviors, sensory sensitivities, and how early intervention with qualified autism treatment in Round Rock can significantly improve a child’s development and future outcomes. Understanding these signs can empower parents to seek professional evaluation and early intervention services, ensuring that children receive the necessary support tailored to their unique requirements.

Understanding The Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)

This is a complex developmental condition affecting social interaction, communication, and repetitive behaviors. It’s important to remember that autism manifests differently in each child. There is a wide spectrum of presentations, and some children may exhibit more pronounced signs than others.

Early Warning Signs To Look For

Here’s a breakdown of some common early signs of autism, categorized by age group:

Before 12 Months:

• Makes little or no eye contact
• Doesn’t respond to their name by 9 months
• Doesn’t babble or coo
• Doesn’t reach out for comfort or play peek-a-boo
• Doesn’t show facial expressions like smiling or frowning

Between 12-24 Months:

• Doesn’t babble or use single words by 18 months
• Doesn’t use two-word phrases by 2 years
• Loses previously acquired language skills
• Doesn’t pretend to play
• Doesn’t point to objects or pictures to share interest

After 2 Years:

• Has difficulty following simple instructions
• Struggles to engage in back-and-forth conversation
• Prefers to be alone
• Has intense interest in specific topics
• Lines up toys or objects in a specific order
• Reacts unusually to certain sounds, textures, or smells

Remember:

• The presence of a few signs doesn’t necessarily indicate autism. However, if you notice several of these behaviors or if you have any concerns about your child’s development, it’s crucial to seek professional evaluation.

Reach For Help & Early Autism Treatment

Timely intervention is crucial for children on the autism spectrum. If you suspect your child might be autistic, schedule an appointment with your pediatrician. They can perform a developmental screening and recommend you to a specialist for a thorough evaluation.

A team of professionals, including pediatricians, developmental psychologists, and speech-language pathologists, can conduct a thorough assessment to determine if your child meets the criteria for an autism diagnosis.

Autism Treatment With MeRT: Introducing Magnetic e-resonance Therapy

What is MeRT?

MeRT (Magnetic e-resonance Therapy) is a relatively new approach to autism treatment in Round Rock that utilizes repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS). While more research is needed to solidify its effectiveness, MeRT has shown promise in improving some core symptoms of autism.

Potential Benefits of MeRT for Autism

Here’s a glimpse into some potential benefits of MeRT for children on the spectrum:

• Enhanced communication skills: Therapy can help children develop their abilities in both verbal and nonverbal communication, enabling them to express themselves effectively and build stronger social connections.
• Improved social interaction: Through play therapy and social skills training, children can learn how to interact with others appropriately, manage their emotions, and build meaningful relationships.
• Reduced challenging behaviors: Many autism treatment programs address repetitive behaviors and help children develop coping mechanisms for sensory sensitivities.
• Increased independence: With targeted interventions, children on the spectrum can learn daily living skills and develop greater independence, fostering self-confidence and a sense of accomplishment.

Final Thoughts

If you have concerns about your child’s development, don’t hesitate to seek professional guidance. Early diagnosis and intervention with qualified autism treatment in Round Rock can make a better world for your child’s future. Remember, you’re not alone in this journey. There are a wealth of resources and support groups available to help your child thrive on the autism spectrum.