Now that we know the statistics on Autism, and the numbers are clearly staggering. When we first started learning about the disability, we immediately searched for and autism symptoms checklist. Many of us have or will come into contact with people who know about Autism or more importantly want to know about autism. This is many times due to an awareness of some of the symptoms of Autism, and personally knowing someone who may meet the criteria. Basically someone afraid their child, or a friends child has autism symptoms. When this arrives a quick autism symptoms checklist should come in handy. I personally have had the question brought to me many many times. Mostly from friends who have co-workers or friends who are worried about it. We were all there once, looking, staring, questioning, and getting 5 different opinions.
When we first started I remember wishing there was an quick checklist of symptoms that I could compare my son to. I am one who does not shy away from this topic. Autism and its symptoms are one that many people become nervous about political correctness and are afraid to tell the truth. Afraid the people they are telling will have a hard time with what they hear and with the symptoms in their loved one. It is a tough topic but it is one that needs to be had early on. The number 1 thing you will here from any doctor or anyone with autistic children is early intervention is the key. It is true. The earlier you attack it, the more likely you will be able to cure autism.
The spectrum has a very wide range. The symptoms are almost so wide spread that you will notice some of them in every child. The diagnosis of autism is usually reached when a certain level of factors are noticed on 3 different scales. Basically a cognitive scale, social scale, and motor skills. If your child is lacking enough of these typical abilities they land in the Autism spectrum. Seems easy right? well, they are not all cut and dried. There are many symptoms that are very obvious to anyone, and then there are symptoms that the average parent doesn’t think of. That is why doctors are needed to evaluate. Here is a basic autism symptoms checklist to get you started.
Eye Contact: Most typical children want to look at the person who is speaking to them. They like to study what is going on for mimic later in life. They love the interaction. If your child has a hard time looking you in the eye or clearly refuses, this is a major sign.
Response Time: If your child doesn’t respond to his name or basically any attempt to get his attention. A typical child will definitely ignore you a couple times. Look for about 4 times in a row with no response. IF this happens regularly it should be a red flag.
Stims: This is the classic. If your child excessively jumps up and down, spins around, flaps their hands and arms a little like a bird, covers their face excessively, or basicly anything that looks over done. This will be disguised as excitement over a tv show, movie or toy. If you feel they have a behavior that is really weird, it usually is. Kids are quirky, I know, but as a parent you know your child best.
Play: The way your child plays is a very large indicator. If in a room with other kids your child does not seem too concerned with the other kids, start to pay attention. It may seem like your child simply wants to play alone, or just not interested in this particular activity. All kids by nature are curious. Also, we are born to be friendly. We learn to be not friendly as we get older. Kids want to play with other kids, no matter what is going on. If you notice your child sticking closely to him/herself speaking with a doctor is needed.
This is a basic overview that I feel a new parent or any parent with a suspicion of autism symptoms needs to know. A parent always knows their child best. If you FEEL something is off, you are generally correct. Go with your gut. Secondly, most parents are in denial and will subconsciously create excuses and justifications for behavior that just doesn’t seem right. There is absolutely NO harm in getting a second opinion. A doctor will help a lleviate any concern. And in many states you can get a free assessment form the state Department of Disabilities.
Autism is striking children at an alarming rate and we want to inform people the best we can. Remember, a Parent ALWAYS knows their child best. You will be the key in diagnosing autism. Listen to all the facts and try to get a few opinions. Knowledge and understanding are the key. I hope this helps someone out there. Please feel free to ask any questions or concerns all feedback is welcome. And good luck
A few extra resources
here are some good resources if you want to get a basic understanding of testing
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