Autism spectrum disorder (ASD), generally referred to as autism, is a developmental disability that can cause a range of social, behavioral, and communication challenges. According to the CDC, autism affects 1 in every 68 children. While there are many types of autism, it’s important for parents to recognize the most common signs. Early screening and intervention can help improve the quality of life for a child with autism.
Know the Signs of ASD
The most common signs of autism tend to appear when a child is between 2 and 3 years old. Children may not display every symptom, but there are two main behaviors to look for: restricted and repetitive actions and social communication challenges. These behaviors can manifest in the following ways:
- Repeating certain actions over and over
- Performing repetitive behaviors like spinning, rocking, or flapping
- Getting upset with a small change in routine
- Avoiding eye contact
- Having trouble communicating verbally or relating to others
- Preferring not to be held or cuddled
- Having unusual or intense reactions to sounds, smells, textures, tastes, and colors