What Is Autism

In the first three years of your child’s life, you may notice that he or she is not responding in a way that children usually do. Perhaps the child isn’t talking at all, or does not make the sounds typical of a baby who is learning to talk. Babies between these ages typically exhibit some sort of curiosity to their surroundings. If your child does not, further testing is required.

Autistic children display all of the above tendencies, and many more. Your child may become overly aggressive, or more passive than usual. They often refuse to interact with other people, both children and adults. They prefer the quiet of their own company. They may startle easily, or not at all. An autistic child doesn’t start or maintain any kind of conversation. You may notice that they are slow to react to any stimulation, yet they will repeat certain movements over and over. In your confusion, you may mistakenly decide that your child is just being stubborn. Punishment for these tendencies is the wrong thing to do.

Autistic children are often more sensitive to certain things such as sights, sounds, and smells. They get very upset if any normal routine is changed. They may become unusually attached to certain objects. Repetitive body movement is another sign that behavior is not normal. Children who begin to exhibit these tendencies after a period of normal development should be examined by a specialist. You, as the parent, will be able to observe your child and fully explain to the doctor what it is that your child is doing that is causing you concern.

Withdrawal is another classic symptom of autism. The child simply has no interest in anything that is going on around him. It’s not that he is doing this on purpose, but just doesn’t have the abilities of a child who isn’t autistic. Something has gone wrong in the brain function. Your child may become obsessed with repeating the same phrase over and over, perhaps something that he has heard in a conversation, or from the television. Again, it not something that your child is doing on purpose. It simply can’t be helped.

If your child has been diagnosed as autistic, don’t despair, and do not blame yourself. The reasons are widely unknown, yet genetics don’t seem to play a part in someone being autistic. Your child can lead a full, productive life if treatment aimed at his or her individual needs is established at an early age. Many autistic children learn and grow up quite comfortably in whatever capacity they are capable of.

Early, intensive treatment is necessary for a child who exhibits autistic tendencies. Treatment is geared toward the particular needs of each individual, and may include physical therapy, medication, and occupational and speech therapy. A therapist will work one on one with each child. Results have been shown to be very effective in the treatment of autism and its related disabilities if started at an early age. Most autistic children can go forward and lead a full, productive life.

Brent McNutt really enjoys socializing and networking with healthcare professionals online and also likes talking about Landau Scrubs and Landau Nursing Shoes and also likes writing articles about various topics.