Autism, or Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), is a complex developmental condition that involves persistent challenges in social interaction, speech and nonverbal communication, and restricted/repetitive behaviors. The effects of autism and the degree of the symptoms vary widely from one individual to the other, but usually, it is diagnosed in early childhood and affects daily functioning. It is referred to as a spectrum disorder because people who have autism may manifest various skills, abilities, and characteristics. The specific reason behind Autism remains unclear. Nonetheless, there are several factors that participate in its development, including genetic mutations, and environmental elements such as exposure to toxins during pregnancy or childbirth complications.
In young children, Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) might manifest in several ways. Recognizing the early signs of autism spectrum disorders in babies and toddlers is crucial for timely screening and intervention. This article will cover the signs of autism in 2 year old children and discuss the significance of early detection and intervention.
Understanding Autism Spectrum Disorder
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a complex neurodevelopmental disorder that significantly impacts communication, social interaction, and behavior. Individuals with ASD often face challenges in both verbal and nonverbal communication, making social interactions more difficult. Additionally, repetitive behaviors and a strong preference for routines are common characteristics.
ASD is referred to as a spectrum disorder because it affects individuals in varying degrees and manifests in different ways. Some people with ASD may require substantial support in their daily lives, while others might need minimal assistance and may not exhibit obvious signs of the disorder. This variability underscores the importance of understanding each individual’s unique needs and strengths within the autism spectrum.
Early Diagnosis of Autism
Early diagnosis of ASD in Children Under 2 Years is essential as it enables early treatment. If any concerns arise, it is crucial to seek an autism diagnosis. Timely activities can enhance a child’s development and allow them to make substantial progress in his or her physical, cognitive, behavioral, social, and language abilities. The younger these children receive intervention, the more progress they make in many developmental areas.
Diagnosis of autism is not done by medical tests but by observation of behaviors which is guided by experts who know the Symptoms of Autism. In the diagnosis of the disorder, the DSM-5, a manual by the American Psychiatric Association, is helpful. Signs are attained in early childhood thus interventions are possible from 18 months (1.5 years) of age. The major signs are slow speech, lack of social communication or eye contact, and repetitive behaviors. A child’s doctor plays a crucial role in early evaluation, testing for hearing issues, and screening for autism. These signs should be recognized for early detection and assistance.
Developmental Milestones and Autism
Developmental milestones are key indicators of a child’s growth and progress, encompassing significant events such as sitting, walking, and talking. For children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), there may be noticeable delays or differences in achieving these milestones. Recognizing these early signs of autism is crucial for timely intervention and support.
Understanding and monitoring developmental milestones can help parents and caregivers identify potential signs of autism early on. For instance, if a child shows delays in speech, limited eye contact, or a lack of interest in social interactions, these could be early signs of autism. By keeping a close watch on a child’s development, parents can seek professional advice and support if they notice any developmental differences, ensuring that their child receives the necessary interventions to thrive.
Autism Red Flags in Infants & Toddlers Under 2
The early warning signs of autism in infants and toddlers are crucial for parents and caregivers to recognize. The early signs of autism in toddlers age 2 can often be detected at 18 months or younger. When the child has reached 2 years, a diagnosis made by an experienced professional is mostly reliable. Yet not all autistic children exhibit all of these signs, and many other children may exhibit a few of these symptoms without being autistic. Here is a list of autism red flags in infants and children under 2 years old, categorized by developmental areas;
Social Differences
➡️ Limited Eye Contact:
Poor eye contact is frequently the first symptom parents tend to observe. In the realm of child psychology, understanding developmental milestones and psychological markers is crucial, as this complexity can imply problems in social communications, one of the most affected by autistics.
➡️ Reduced Interest in Social Interactions:
Younger children who may have Developmental Signs of autism, however, unlike their peers, do not demonstrate interest in social games, like peek-a-boo or other interactive plays that fascinate toddlers. It looks as if they are indifferent to efforts to include them in their social circle.
➡️ Lack of Response to Name:
At one year old, a toddler then will turn their head on hearing their name called. Non-response is a red flag of autism including problems with basic social awareness and responsiveness.
Communication Challenges
➡️ Delayed Babbling:
Although most children begin babbling at around 6 months, infants showing signs of autism may experience delays or even a total lack of babbling by the age of 12 months. This lag is an early sign of Communication Issues.
➡️ Limited Use of Gestures:
Symbolic movements such as pointing to show interest or waving goodbye are also important hallmarks. Recognizing early signs of various developmental disorders, such as limited use of gestures, is crucial for timely diagnosis and intervention. Gestures in toddlers who have Developmental Delays at 14 months can be significantly reduced or even not present at all.
➡️ Poor Response to Verbal Cues:
Failure to understand and respond to verbal instructions or not participating in vocal mimicry games could be a sign of early communication problems of autism.
Behavioral Signs
➡️ Repetitive Behaviors:
Typical examples of repetitive movements among children with autism include hand-flapping, rocking, and spinning objects. These behaviors are generally self-soothing processes.
➡️Routine Dependence:
Infants or toddlers manifesting the early symptoms of autism may become greatly distressed at any alteration in their routine or surroundings. This desire for certainty might be simply a result of the overwhelming uncertainty that change is for them.
➡️ Focused Interests:
An intense concentration on particular toys, objects, or themes is a symptom. This can involve preoccupation with parts of objects, such as the wheels of a toy car, rather than engaging with the object in the appropriate way.
Sensory Sensitivities
➡️ Over- or Under-Sensitivity:
The sensory responses of autism in infants may be unusual. This may vary from a dislike for certain sounds and textures to an inability to react to pain or intense cold.
➡️ Unusual Viewing of Objects:
Obsessive looking at objects from unusual angles such as the side of the eye, or watching objects spin or move can also be a sign of autism. This characteristic is a manifestation of discrepancies in Sensory Processing and Integration.
If you notice any of these symptoms, it is necessary to write them down and make sure that the child’s pediatrician knows your observations. Keep track of the behaviors you observe, their time, and frequency. A pediatrician can help decide if these signs are normal or if they should be checked.
Children with ASD benefit greatly from early intervention. When your child is diagnosed with autism, Early Intervention Services including speech and occupational therapy are useful in developing their skills and abilities.
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Recognizing ASD in Early Childhood
Early diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) leads to the child’s improved quality of life. The key figures in this process are parents and caregivers who are frequently the first ones to detect the early symptoms. The following are some tools and approaches for identifying ASD in early childhood;
Regular Observations
Parents or caregivers should monitor the child’s general behavior, social interactions, and communication skills. Be observant of indications such as repetitive actions, limited eye contact, late language development, and challenges in social interactions.
Developmental Screening Tools
There are a number of standardized screening tools that can assist in identifying children who are at risk of ASD. These are the Modified Checklist for Autism in Toddlers (M-CHAT), the Screening Tool for Autism in Toddlers and Young Children (STAT), and the Autism Spectrum Rating Scales (ASRS). These tools are often used by pediatricians during regular check-ups.
Follow-Up Appointments and Developmental Assessments
Periodical pediatric check-ups are essential to monitor the progress of your child. Developmental Screening by the American Academy of Pediatrics includes screening at 9, 18, and 24 or 30 months and autism-specific screening at 18 and 24 months.
Trust Your Instincts
A parent usually has a vivid understanding of his/her child’s development. Do not hesitate to discuss any concerns regarding your child’s behavior, social skills, or communication abilities with your healthcare provider.
While parents and caregivers play a critical role in early detection, it’s essential to remember that a diagnosis of ASD is a complex process involving several steps and professionals. If your child is showing signs of ASD, a comprehensive evaluation by a team of specialists, including a psychologist, neurologist, psychiatrist, speech therapist, and occupational therapist, may be necessary.
What If the Child Shows Some Early Signs of Autism?
When autism symptoms appear in a child the best thing to do is ask the pediatrician or the specialist in child development for their advice on the matter. Early intervention in development gives a great chance to the child and often involves services such as ABA, Speech Therapy, and Occupational Therapy. Recognition and action to the main signals by the time a child may change the path of his or her development dramatically. Parents and caregivers play the more important role in this process because they are the ones who know early autism signs, demand an environment suitable for the child, and stay by the child all the way.
ABA Therapy being used in Early Intervention for ASD (Autism Spectrum Disorder) is undoubtedly one of the most effective treatments for the condition. ABA is a behavioral therapy that works on boosting natural behaviors such as social skills, communication, reading comprehension, and academic skills as well as improved adaptive skills like fine motor skills, hygiene, grooming, clothing, home living skills, punctuality, and proficiency.
Read Next –Unit 1: ABA-Based Guide to Early Intervention Services for Children with Autism: A Parent’s Handbook
Frequently Asked Questions & Answer
Can Autism Be Diagnosed Under 2?
Yes, autism can often be diagnosed by age 2. However, many children may not receive a final diagnosis until they are much older. This delay means that children with autism might not get the early help they need.
What are the Problematic Behaviors of a 2-Year-Old with Autism?
Problematic behaviors can manifest as repeated outbursts (such as screaming and kicking), physical attacks, self-harm, and extreme difficulty with changes or transitions.
How do I Know If My Toddler has Mild Autism?
For instance, in mild autism, symptoms include limited social communication, minor problems adjusting to changes, and narrow but passionate interests. Please, seek the expertise of a healthcare professional to determine the actual cause and treatment plan.
Do 2-Year-Olds with Autism Cry a Lot?
Some babies cry more frequently due to their being sensitive or the feeling of not expressing themselves well enough to upset others around them, but sometimes others may have very little reaction to the circumstances of their lives.
Can a Child Show Symptoms of Autism and Not Be Autistic?
Yes, other factors like delay of language skills, sensory processing problems and even age-related developmental fluctuations can be very similar to autism symptoms. An accurate diagnosis can only be established based on conducting a detailed evaluation.
Conclusion
Early detection of the beginning symptoms of autism in children under two years old is of great importance to parents and those who take care of them. The early diagnosis and treatment will contribute greatly to the patient’s skill be the coping mechanism in the face of those challenges. Children with autism who receive adequate support and treatment have the potential to live good lives. Thus, empowering them with knowledge and vigilance is necessary in caring for children with ASD and their families. If you notice anything that concerns you, don’t hesitate to seek professional advice. Programs like AutismCOE’s Early Intervention Program are designed to help children with ASD reach their full potential. Remember, early detection and intervention can make a significant difference.
Bhavika Bhasin (Author)
Bhavika Bhasin is the Research and Marketing officer at AutismCOE. She works with children and adults with ASD. Her clinical research includes evaluating various available autism screening and diagnosis methods and their efficacy. She is currently developing a novel screening exam that is indicated to be more accurate than the existing available exams. She is also writes articles papers for various publications.
