Grand Lake Autism Support Network

Autism is currently the fastest growing developmental disability in the United States.  This year more children will be diagnosed with autism than Downs Syndrome, diabetes and cancer combined.  Currently autism affects 1 out of 150 children.  In Oklahoma alone, more than 1,100 children between the ages of 3 and 21, diagnosed with autism, are enrolled in Special Education services.  This does not include those children under age 3, those enrolled in private schools and preschools, and those being homeschooled. 

WHAT ARE THE SIGNS OF AUTISM?

Communication    

* Is not speaking by age 18 months.

* Does not respond when his/her name is called.

* Appears as though he/she is deaf.

* Seems to "lose" vocabulary the he/she has learned.  

Social Skills

* Lack of eye contact.

* Will often seem to be in his/her own world.

* Wants others to be interested in exactly what he/she is interested in and cannot understand when they aren't. 

Behavior

* Has unusual interests or attachments.

* Has repetitive motor movements such as spinning objects or self, hand flapping, rocking, walking on tip toes, talking to self or repetitive talk.

* Has difficulty coping with change.

* Becomes upset for reasons not apparent to others.

* Has trouble falling asleep or staying asleep.

*  Lack of patience.

Sensory

* Is sensitive to certain sounds, textures, smells and/or tastes.

* Uses peripheral vision to look at people or objects.

* Eats a limited range of foods.

* May have gastrointestinal problems.

Play

* Prefers to play alone or with younger children.

* Plays with objects in unusual ways, such as repetitively spinning toys or lining them up.

These are just a few of the possible signs that you may see in a child with an autism spectrum disorder.  All children are affected differently and may exhibit only some of the symptoms.  For more information, talk to a child developmental specialist.  If you suspect your child may have an ASD, see your doctor immediately.  Ask questions and get answers!  Early intervention is so vital.