Our Smart Baby

Early Signs of Autism

Most children diagnosed within the autism spectrum of disorders are
diagnosed around the age of three. Autism is often difficult to
detect,
especially in higher-functioning cases like Asperger’s Syndrome. Early
intervention is crucial for successful treatment of autism and some
researchers have discovered that early signs of autism appear during
infancy. Following are early signs of autism in the first year:

First Six Months
No eye contact
Does not respond to his name
Does not seem to notice others
Has a sibling with autism
Larger than average head circumference
Inactive
Passivity followed by irritability

Six to Twelve Months
Symptoms as listed above
Fixates on objects
Difficulty processing language
Difficulty using language and gestures
Lack of facial expression
Does not block a fall with his hands

Parents may use a “tilt test” developed by researchers from the
University
of Florida. Tilt your baby to one side or the other. A baby with
Asperger’s
Syndrome will keep his head straight.
Only a physician can diagnose autism, but early detection is very
important. Keeping pediatricians informed of possible signs of autism
will
improve the odds of early detection of autism in infants.

By Tammi Reynolds