Did you know that 1 in 36 children are diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder? In fact, this number is growing each year. There are many types of autism that range across a large spectrum. Individuals who fall on the Autism Spectrum each face a number of challenges and possess strengths that make them unique. Learn more interesting facts about Autism Spectrum Disorder below.
What is Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)?
Autism Spectrum Disorder is a developmental disability that can cause significant social, communication and behavioral challenges. Individuals who have this disorder often experience delayed language development and difficulty with common social skills. They may not be able to easily make eye contact or hold a conversation, especially when they’re overwhelmed.
Some individuals also experience difficulty with sensory or motor skills. The reason that autism falls on a spectrum is that not everyone’s behaviors or challenges are the same.
How Early Can Medical Professionals Diagnose ASD?
While most children who receive an ASD diagnosis do so between the ages of two and three, medical professionals can diagnose this disorder as early as 18 months. How early they’re able to detect it depends on a few variables.
However, if you’re noticing that your child isn’t hitting milestones or seems to have a developmental delay, you should bring it up to your doctor. He or she will be able to start the evaluation process ASAP. The earlier you get a diagnosis, the sooner you can start working with a Board Certified Behavioral Analyst (BCBA) to begin making developmental progress.
Who is Most Likely to be Diagnosed with ASD?
Though any child can receive an Autism Spectrum Disorder diagnosis, boys are four times as likely to receive this diagnosis as girls. This number breaks down to about 1 in 34 boys and 1 in 144 girls.
What are Some Common Early Signs of ASD?
Early signs of ASD vary from child to child, but there are a few common tip offs. These include:
- Lack of eye contact
- Being unresponsive to their name
- Withdrawing from social situations
- Lack of common gesturing or pointing
- Rarely imitating others’ expressions
- Experiencing a delay in motor and sensory development
A child may present with all of these signs or just a few. Noticing any of them over a period of time can be a red flag. An early diagnosis can mean early intervention and quicker skills development. If you think your child is displaying these signs, learn more about how a diagnostic evaluation can help your child.
Get More Interesting Facts About Autism Spectrum Disorder or Help for Your Child From Verbal Beginnings
Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder can thrive as well as other children. Sometimes, they just need some extra assistance. At Verbal Beginnings, we believe that any child can learn. We work with children who have developmental disabilities, including Autism Spectrum Disorder, to help them develop social skills, functional living skills, communication skills, and positive behavior skills. To get assistance for your child or to learn more interesting facts about Autism Spectrum Disorder, call us at 855.866.9893.