Generally, the cases of autism are diagnosed during the toddler years. This doesn’t imply that the disorder is common during this stage of life, but most of the symptoms and signs of autism can be seen during this period. Or in other words, children start to show the symptoms of autism during this period. So, during this period parents should be paying special attention in observing the signs of autism. Toddlers are children between the ages of 12 and 18 months and are between infancy and childhood.
Autism is characterized by impairment in social interaction and communication and by repetitive behavior. Some of the most common autism symptoms include:
Communication: Children with autism say fewer words make fewer sounds and gestures, as compared to children of same age with normal development. They are also shyer and have a different gaze.
Repetitive behavior: Children with autism show stereotypes or repetitive behaviors. This is one of the most evident signs of autism. Autistic children display head-banging, flapping even when in the bed. They eat only particular food and do things in same manner. They are also attached to one particular object or toy. This behavior shows their difficulty in adopting changes.
Lack of interest: Children with autism like to live in their own world. Autism damages the social development of person. Autistic children seem disinterested in other people and the environment. They hardly smile or respond to their own name.
Fortunately there are organizations and communities like ASEA (Autism Society of Edmonton Area). Societies and organizations like embrace and support people on the autism spectrum throughout their lives. Organizations like this provide information, programs and support through its Resource Centre, including discussion and activity groups, and new online resources. This and many more such organizations are working to increase the awareness about the autism in the society and help make lives of people with autism and their families easier and less complicated.
To increase the awareness world autism awareness day is also celebrated on 2 April.
Autism Spectrum Disorder - Autism Awareness 