What are Common Early Signs of Autism Spectrum Disorder?
Identifying the early signs of autism involves observing a child’s social, communication, and behavioral patterns, typically between 6 and 18 months of age. Common indicators include:
Social and Emotional Signs
- Limited eye contact during interactions.
- Not responding to their name by 12 months.
- Lack of social smiling by 2 months or sharing excitement (joint attention).
- Not pointing to share interest or responding to social bids by 12 to 18 months.
Communication Delays
- Delayed babbling by 6 months.
- Fewer gestures, such as waving bye-bye, by 12 months.
- No first words by 12 months or limited imitation of sounds.
Behavioral and Sensory Indicators
- Repetitive behaviors, such as lining up toys or repeating specific actions.
- A strong insistence on daily routines and resistance to change.
- Sensory sensitivities, like overreacting to loud noises, bright lights, or specific textures.
- Imaginative play delays, such as a lack of pretend play with dolls or stuffed animals.
Motor Skill Delays
- Motor milestone alerts include not crawling by 9 months or not walking by 15 months.
Because these signs vary widely among children, parents are encouraged to document observations in a journal to share with healthcare professionals for early intervention.
Related FAQs
-
What is Early Aba Therapy for Toddlers?
Read More »: What is Early Aba Therapy for Toddlers?Early Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy for toddlers is a specialized, evidence-based intervention designed for children under the age of three who exhibit signs of autism, such as delayed speech or social withdrawal. Provided by agencies like Golden Touch ABA…
-
Why is Early Intervention Important in Aba Therapy?
Read More »: Why is Early Intervention Important in Aba Therapy?Early intervention in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy is critical because it takes advantage of heightened brain plasticity during a child’s most adaptable years. Clinical research indicates that starting ABA before the age of three offers the best opportunity for…
-
What should I Ask an Out-of-network Aba Therapist before Starting Services in Utah?
Read More »: What should I Ask an Out-of-network Aba Therapist before Starting Services in Utah?When evaluating an out-of-network ABA therapist in Utah, it is important to ask specific questions to clarify expectations and build a trusting partnership. Based on best practices for out-of-network care, you should ask the following: Treatment Philosophy and Goals: Ask…
-
Can I Get Financial Assistance for Out-of-network Aba Therapy for my Child in Utah?
Read More »: Can I Get Financial Assistance for Out-of-network Aba Therapy for my Child in Utah?Yes, financial assistance and reimbursement for out-of-network ABA therapy are available in Utah, primarily through the state’s autism insurance mandate (SB195). This mandate requires private insurers to cover ABA therapy for individuals up to age 21, providing at least $50,000…
-
Is Out-of-network Aba Therapy Covered under Utah’s Autism Insurance Laws?
Read More »: Is Out-of-network Aba Therapy Covered under Utah’s Autism Insurance Laws?Yes, out-of-network ABA therapy is covered under Utah’s autism insurance laws. According to the state mandate (SB195), private insurers are required to provide coverage for Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) for individuals up to age 21. This law applies to both…
