Autism, also known as autism spectrum disorder, is a complex neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by significant difficulties in social interaction, communication (both verbal and non-verbal), and behavioral patterns. The symptoms of autism vary among children, but some core features are commonly present. Understanding these symptoms and intervening in a timely manner is crucial for the future development of the child.
Common Symptoms of Autism in Children
Social Interaction Difficulties: Children with autism often struggle to establish emotional connections with others, lack nonverbal communication methods such as eye contact, smiles, and gestures. They may have delayed responses to others’ emotions and feelings, making it hard for them to maintain friendships and social relationships.
Communication Challenges: In terms of language, children with autism may experience significant difficulties, including delayed speech, poor language expression, repetitive speech or behaviors. They may have trouble understanding or using language, and even lack nonverbal communication methods such as gestures or facial expressions.
Restricted Interests and Repetitive Behaviors: Children with autism typically show intense interest in specific objects or activities while showing little interest in others. They may engage in repetitive behavior patterns, such as arranging objects or body movements, and may be overly sensitive to changes in their environment.
Sensory Abnormalities: These children may have strong reactions to certain sounds, colors, foods, or light, while having weak responses to stimuli like pain. They may be fascinated by sensory stimuli like touching or spinning objects.
Developmental Delay: Approximately 70% of children with autism experience delayed intellectual development, resulting in lower intelligence levels or uneven development.
Emotional and Behavioral Issues: Due to communication difficulties and poor adaptability, children with autism are prone to emotional problems such as anxiety, depression, irritability, as well as self-harming or aggressive behaviors.
How Parents Can Detect and Intervene Early
Observe Child’s Behavior: Parents should carefully observe their child’s daily behavior, noting signs such as lack of eye contact, repetitive behaviors, narrow interests, etc. Additionally, monitor the child’s language development and social skills for any delays compared to peers.
Regular Health Checks: Through professional assessments by pediatric or psychological experts, parents can understand the child’s developmental status. Doctors use various tools and methods, such as questionnaires, observations, interviews, to comprehensively evaluate the child’s behavior and development.
Seek Professional Help Promptly: If a child shows signs of autism, parents should seek immediate medical advice from a professional. Early intervention is crucial for the recovery of children with autism; behavior intervention, speech therapy, and parental training can significantly improve the child’s symptoms.
Create a Supportive Environment: The family plays a crucial role in a child’s upbringing. Parents should create a warm, quiet, and stable environment to reduce stimuli for the child. Additionally, provide sufficient love and support to enhance the child’s sense of security.
Participate Actively in Intervention Training: Parents should actively participate in their child’s intervention training, learn relevant knowledge and skills, and work with trainers to develop suitable training plans for the child. Through consistent intervention and training, help the child gradually acquire social skills and language expression abilities.
