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.

Order our early warning brochure "Is this your child?" for your childcare centre, doctor's office or friend. E-mail your mailing address and quantity request to info@autismcanada.org or download IsThisYourChild.pdf (153 k).