Autism and Early Intervention

As a teacher, I've been noticing in more recent years a rise in Autism in children.  With the "umbrella" spanning so many different forms of Autism, it's hard to really pinpoint.   Here are some early signs and interventions from Miami Children's Hospital that can be taken if you feel your child may have signs of Autism. 

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Autism and Early Intervention

Approximately 1 in every 88 children in the U.S. is diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder.

As families learn of a child’s diagnosis, they can gain hope from the knowledge that early

identification of affected children can help lessen the impact of this developmental disorder,

and significantly improve the child’s overall quality of life.

“Autism spectrum disorders are a heterogeneous group of complex developmental disorders

that appear within a child’s first three years of life,” explained Dr. Roberto Tuchman, Director of

Autism and Neurodevelopment Program, at the Miami Children’s Hospital Dan Marino

Outpatient Center, which provides early diagnosis and interventions for children with

neurodevelopmental disorders, including autism spectrum disorders. “For parents, knowing the

developmental milestones that take place during a baby’s first 18 months of life is crucial, as this

can help with identifying signs of autism or other developmental conditions,” said Dr. Tuchman.

The Early Signs

Parents of autistic children are almost always the first ones to suspect something is “different”

about their child. Frequently they have concerns by the time the baby is 2 years old. Treatment

for autism spectrum disorders can be helpful at any age, however, scientific studies have

demonstrated that early intervention can ensure optimal outcomes for children with

developmental disorders.

“There is no medical test to diagnose autism,” said Dr. Tuchman, “that’s why identifying early

symptoms is so helpful in getting children the proper medical attention.” He noted, “Children

with autism often miss major milestones or are delayed in some skills, such as the ability to

follow and react to faces, responding to name, pointing, and sharing their excitement with

others.” Additionally, children with autism often have difficulties with verbal and nonverbal

communication, social interactions and pretend play.

“In certain cases, a child may develop normally before age 1 or 2, then have a slowing or

stagnation in development or even lose his or her language and social skills,” said Dr.

Tuchman. The important point is to seek advice from your pediatrician early if there is any

concern about a child’s development.

Seeking Treatment

Studies show that interventions starting as early as 18 months of age can help improve a child’s

ability to interact appropriately within the environment, and support development of language

and social skills. Parents are encouraged to identify a facility specializing in early recognition and

intervention of autism spectrum disorders. An early comprehensive team approach to autism

spectrum disorders and other neurodevelopmental conditions can have a positive impact on the

child’s developmental trajectory.

For more information on autism, visit www.mch.com

If you feel that your child is showing signs of Autism Spectrum Disorder, please seek help from your pediatrician.  You are not alone.

Alexis