Tuesday, May 11, 2010

Autism in Toddlers - Signs That Should Cause Concern

Toddler years are when children develop their communication, social and physical skills. Because autism is a developmental disorder, it is important for parents or guardians to know the milestones in normal development. With autism in toddlers, signs may range from mild to severe. When you notice abnormalities or delayed in certain areas, you should right away consult these concerns with a professional. Keep in mind that autism can be treatable especially when proper therapy is given the earliest time possible. Early detection and cure makes all the difference in shaping the child's future in the battle with autism. To guide you with autism in toddlers, signs and symptoms are as follows:

At 12 months

At this age, a normal child is expected to imitate people involved in his play. An autistic child instead, doesn't interact with other children. He/she prefers to do things alone and even gets irritated when his/her things are touched or if he is bothered. This is why 'having their own world' is the best description of autism in toddlers. Signs that 1-year-olds choose their mother or usual caregiver especially when feeding is clear. An autistic toddler doesn't have that kind of attachment even to these supposed to be 'trusted' individuals. Hugs are very seldom given by them, causing much frustration to the mother or parents. Normal children can also identify pictures when image is being named. For autistic children, they do not identify or even respond to such activity. Eye contact is very minimal for them. The usual speech patterns are also delayed. Single words that are hallmarks of this age may not be evident to autistic children.

At 24 months

Children are likely to be more sociable at this age, eagerness in the company of other children their age are expected. However, with autism, these children may demonstrate otherwise. Recognition of names with familiar objects and persons are evident in normal development-this may not be present with autistic tots. Simple instructions are not followed. The child cannot use simple phrases even so complete very easy sentences. Typical 2-year-olds can walk alone, begins to run, and can go and down the stairs with support and can kick a ball. With autism, these tasks are rather clumsy. An autistic child may stumble several times when attempting to walk. Body shaking and hand flapping are observed.

At 36 months

Autistic children still have very limited social interaction. By autism in toddlers, signs of disinterest in the environment would mean more frequent tantrums than what usual kids throw. They do not understand the concept of 'mine', 'his/hers'. Instead, they are contained in the concept of 'mine' alone. Games may still be solitary when at this age, group play is anticipated. Play may mean constant lining up of toys. They have a tendency to be engrossed on staring at certain objects, steady or spinning, for a long period of time. Affection is not openly given. They stay aloof to their environment. In communication, they are stuck at only speaking one to three words when at this age; more complex sentences should be learned. When being called at, they don't seem to react even when called by their name.

If you suspect your child is autistic, seek help immediately. Early intervention programs can significantly improve the development and behavior of your child. There are a lot of resources about autism. Visit AUTISM IN TODDLERS - SIGNS and learn more about its causes, symptoms, and how to handle it. Reviews on the top 3 books online about autism are also available.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Anthony_Ezail_Travis

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