One of the responsibilities of a daycare provider is to be aware of potential developmental or behavioral disorders in young children. Autism is one such disorder that affects young children.
Autism is a genetic disorder that affects approximately one in every 150 children. It is typically noticed around the child's second birthday, with a confirmed diagnosis before age three.
Autism is a neuro-developmental disorder that affects a person’s ability to communicate, impedes social interactions, is characterized by repetitive behaviors, and impairs appropriate response to the environment. Autism is a “spectrum disorder”. This means that the symptoms and behaviors of autism present in a variety of combinations and these symptoms and behaviors range from mild to severe.
Signs and Symptoms of Autism
It is important that those educating young children notice the signs and symptoms of autism.There are early signs and symptoms that alert adults that a child needs further evaluation for autism. Dr. Diane Van Driesen, Director of Autism Services for the Wawa Eden House details these signs and symptoms:
- Not smiling by six months of age
- Not babbling, pointing or using other gestures by 12 months
- Not using single words by age 16 months
- Not using two word phrases by 24 months
- Having a regression in development, with any loss of language or social skills
Infants with autism might also avoid eye contact, and as they get older, act as if they are unaware of when people come and go around them.
Diagnosing Autism
The diagnosis is made through clinical observation of behavior, language, and social interaction. There is no blood, brain or genetic testing for autism.
Autism can be diagnosed as early as eighteen months and reliably identified by the age of 3 years. “A 2-stage process of screenings and a comprehensive evaluation conducted by a psychologist, neurologist, or psychiatrist can diagnose it. The screening involves the parents who have the ability to best answer questions regarding the child’s behavior,” says Edwin Santiago, DPT.
Since there are no medical tests for diagnosing autism, an accurate diagnosis must be based on the observation of the individual’s communication, behavior and developmental levels. A child would need to be referred to a professional who specializes in diagnosing autism spectrum disorders.
“This may be a developmental pediatrician, a psychiatrist or psychologist, and other professionals that are able to observe and test your child in specific areas. Children may be referred for a diagnostic screening and/or evaluation at 18 months of age or younger,” says Dr. Van Driesen. Early detection and intervention is critical in providing specialized early intervention services.
Children with autism process and respond to information in unique ways. Be mindful and alert of any signs and symptoms of autism including the way children behave, use language, and interact with others.
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