Autism is a complex developmental disorder that affects how a child perceives and interacts with the world around them. As a parent or caregiver, you may have questions about what autism is and how it impacts your child's behavior and development. Understanding autism spectrum types and their characteristics can help you provide the support and care your child needs to thrive.
Understanding Autism Spectrum Disorder
View or print out our essential must-know facts: What is Autism? (For Children)
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a condition that involves persistent challenges with social communication, restricted interests, and repetitive behaviors. The spectrum nature of autism means that its expression in type and severity can vary widely between individuals.
Levels of Autism
Autism is categorized into three levels based on the support needed.
- Level 1: Children require some support in social situations and may have difficulty initiating interactions or responding to others.
- Level 2: Children need substantial support and have noticeable verbal and non-verbal communication challenges.
- Level 3: Children require very substantial support, with severe difficulties in social communication and flexibility.
Developmental Challenges Children with Autism
Children with autism face unique developmental challenges that impact their daily lives. These challenges often manifest in various areas, including communication, social skills, self-care, transitions, and play.
Communication
You may notice that your child with autism struggles with both verbal and nonverbal communication. They might have difficulty initiating conversations, understanding figurative language, or using appropriate intonation. Some children may have delayed language development or limited vocabulary, making expressing their thoughts and needs challenging.
Examples: One child may be unable to communicate their needs without crying or grabbing others. Another child may communicate their needs in a way that comes off rude.
Social Skills
Social interaction can be particularly challenging for children with autism. You might observe that your child has trouble making friends, understanding social cues, or engaging in reciprocal conversations. They may struggle with using and interpreting facial expressions, body language, and gestures, impacting their ability to build relationships and understand others' emotions.
Examples: One child may not have an interest in interacting with other people and prefer to be alone. Another child may have such an intense interest in interacting that they get too close to those around them. Another child may recite lines from movies during conversations.
Self-Care Skills
Many children with autism have difficulty developing independent self-care skills. You may find that your child struggles with tasks such as dressing, grooming, or using the bathroom independently.
Examples: One child may find certain fabrics uncomfortable and cry each time she has to get dressed. Another child may struggle to eat with a fork or spoon and choose to use their hands.
Transitions and Change
Children with autism often thrive on routine and predictability, making unexpected changes to their environment or daily schedule distressing.
Examples: One child may begin having behavioral issues after their class moves to a new room. Another child may refuse to go to school after their caregiver needs to stop at the gas station and take a different route to school.
Play and Leisure
Children with autism often face unique challenges when it comes to play and leisure activities. These difficulties stem from their social communication challenges, sensory sensitivities, and preference for routine. Children may struggle with imaginative play, taking turns, and play cues. This can lead to isolation and missed opportunities for social skill development.
Examples: One child may play alone on the swings while their peers play tag together. Another child may take toys away from others without asking when they want to play with them.
Autism Signs in Toddlers and Children
Recognizing the signs of autism in children is crucial for early intervention and support. While every person with autism has a unique experience, there are common indicators for toddlers and older children.
Signs of Autism in Toddlers
Autism in toddlers can manifest through various developmental differences. Here are some common signs to be aware of:
- Delayed language skills or unusual communication patterns
- Lack of response to their name by 9 months of age
- Limited or absent eye contact
- Repetitive behaviors or stimming (e.g., hand flapping, rocking)
- Compulsive behaviors, such as lining up toys or closing doors repetitively
- Sensory sensitivities, including unusual reactions to sounds, textures and tastes
Signs of Autism in Children
As children grow, signs of autism may become more apparent. Some of the most common signs of autism in preschool and elementary-aged children include:
- Delayed speech or language skills
- Repetitive behaviors or movements
- Difficulty understanding or using nonverbal communication
- Intense focus on specific interests and objects
- Challenges with social interactions and making friends
- Sensory sensitivities (to sounds, lights, textures, etc.)
- Resistance to changes in routine
- Difficulty understanding others' emotions or perspectives
- Difficulty following multi-step directions
Diagnosing Autism in Children
Diagnosing autism in children involves a comprehensive evaluation process. There's no single medical test to detect autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Instead, experienced professionals assess a child's developmental history and behavior. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends screening all children for autism at 18 and 24 months during regular well-child visits.
The diagnostic process typically includes:
- Developmental Screening: Your pediatrician will observe your child and ask about their behavior and development.
- Comprehensive Diagnostic Evaluation: If screening suggests potential ASD, a team of specialists will conduct a more thorough assessment. This may include a child psychologist and/or developmental pediatrician.
- Standardized Tools: Professionals use various screening tools, such as the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule (ADOS-2) and the Autism Diagnostic Interview-Revised (ADI-R).
- Behavioral Observation: Specialists directly interact with the child to assess communication, social interaction, and repetitive behaviors.
Autism Services and Treatment
When it comes to autism services and treatment for children, there's no one-size-fits-all approach. Your child’s unique strengths and needs will require different strategies, goals, and procedures.
Treatment options may include behavior and communication therapies, physical and occupational therapy, and parenting support. Some focus on reducing problem behaviors and teaching new skills, while others emphasize teaching children how to act in social situations or communicate better with others.
ABA Therapy for Autism
Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is a widely recognized therapy for autism in children. It's based on the science of learning and behavior, aiming to increase helpful behaviors and decrease those that affect development. ABA therapy programs can help improve communication skills, attention, focus, social interaction, memory, and academics.
ABA therapy is flexible and can be adapted to meet each child's unique needs. It can be provided in various locations, including home, school, and community settings. The therapy uses positive reinforcement as one of its main strategies, encouraging positive behavior change over time.
Early Intervention ABA Therapy
At Behavioral Framework, we understand the importance of early intervention for children with autism. Our autism services are designed to help your child develop essential skills and manage life's challenges. We focus on improving learning, social, and communication skills, empowering families to better navigate the complexities of an autism diagnosis.
Our approach is tailored to your child's unique needs, starting with a comprehensive ABA therapy assessment. This leads to an individualized treatment plan that targets your child's strengths and areas for growth. We offer in-home therapy options, allowing flexibility to suit your family's preferences and your child's specific requirements. Additionally, many of our services are covered by insurance. Contact us today to learn more by filling out our intake form.