early signs

Early Signs of Autism (12 to 24 Months) - child may demonstrate only a few of these symptoms

Often begins to develop language then loses it, or doesn't acquire language at all

May appear deaf, respond unevenly or not at all to sounds

Difficulty consoling during transitions (tantrums)

Difficulty sleeping / wakes at night

Does not "point and look"

Failure to bond (e.g. child is indifferent to parents' presence)

Reaction to vaccines

Self restricted/selected diet

Limited imaginative play

Not interested in playing with other children

Chronic gastrointestinal problems

Repeated infections

Unfortunately many pediatricians and other physicians are not experienced in diagnosing Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Many physicians fear making the diagnosis because they were trained to believe that ASD is incurable. Don't accept your doctor's advice if he/she proposes a "wait and see" approach or promises that your child will "catch up". If your child has normal development and then regresses you should seek help immediately. A developing child's brain is pliable and there is a window of opportunity for recovery at a young age that diminishes as the child gets older.