Look for whether they misinterpret simple social cues such as turn-taking during conversation, as this can be a sign of autism. [3] X Research source If they have trouble joining or staying in social interactions, it may be a sign of Asperger’s/autism. For example, the child may leave the room in the middle of playing with another child or otherwise be disruptive. [4] X Research source Autistic children tend to prefer playing by themselves and may even get upset if another child approaches them. They may only interact with others when they want to talk about an interest or if they need something. Possible signs of ASD include awkward social interactions such as consistently avoiding eye contact, and unusual body posture, gestures, and/or facial expressions. [5] X Trustworthy Source Mayo Clinic Educational website from one of the world’s leading hospitals Go to source
For example, if your daughter organizes her stuffed animals into elaborate societies, but doesn’t role-play interactions, she may be autistic. In addition, they may seem “in their own world,” or may try to impose their choice of game on their playmates or otherwise act in a very one-sided manner. [6] X Research source Some children with Asperger’s can follow the lead of a close friend or sibling with roleplaying, but don’t do it on their own.
They may also have trouble understanding social boundaries such as need for privacy. Disregard for other’s feelings may be interpreted as being insensitive but it is really beyond the child’s control.
Although toddlers may not always have much of a choice about who they interact with, try to create opportunities such as play dates, so you can try to get a sense of their interaction choices and social behavior.
Make sure you get a broad enough range of the toddler speaking to be sure that the monotonous speaking is relatively consistent across different contexts. Some autistic children will speak in a singsong or otherwise unusual tone.
You may notice a child with Asperger’s is highly skilled at language and very verbal. For example, they may list off every item in a room. However, speech may seem overly formal or scripted as a child with Asperger’s/ASD tends to use language to relay facts, not convey thoughts or feelings.
Your toddler may need more support and prompting than their peers, or become anxious without guidance from an adult. If you are not with the toddler during the day, you could ask the teacher or daycare worker to keep an eye out for certain behaviors (such as getting upset when asked to deviate from routine) and report back to you.
If you tend to be in the same routines when interacting with your toddler, try changing things up and gauging their reaction to get a sense of whether they are on the autism spectrum.
Your child’s interest in a particular area may be a sign of ASD if it is unusually intense or focused, especially when compared to others their age.
An autistic child will become distressed if you get in their way (e. g. passing in front of them while they are trying to walk in circles around a table). Try this once and see how your child reacts. While stimming in general is harmless and does not need to change, some individual stims (e. g. head-banging or ripping the wallpaper) cause harm. These can be redirected to better stims. A child with Asperger’s may also demonstrate difficulty in some motor skills such as catching and throwing a ball, for example. In general, they may appear clumsy or awkward in their movements. [13] X Research source
Although sensory sensitivities vary, most frequently children with Asperger’s will experience intense reactions to an ordinary sensation. Some autistic children are not sensitive to pain, or do not know how to communicate it. [15] X Trustworthy Source Mayo Clinic Educational website from one of the world’s leading hospitals Go to source
Your doctor may choose to recommend tests to more thoroughly examine relevant potentially telling aspects of your toddler’s cognitive development.
Doesn’t respond to social interaction with a smile of happy emotional expression by 6 months of age. Doesn’t mimic facial expressions or facial movements (such as sticking out your tongue and your toddler doing the same), or sounds, by 9 months of age. Is not babbling or making cooing sounds by 12 months of age. Isn’t making gestures such as pointing, by 14 months of age. Has not uttered single words by 16 months of age or pairs of words by 24 months of age. Doesn’t engage in imaginary play by 18 months of age. Seems to be regressing in their social or verbal skills.
Keep in mind there is no single medical test to diagnose ASD, so try to remain patient as you and your doctor work through the diagnosis process.
Behavior and communication therapy in which the aim is either to reduce problematic behaviors and communication styles, or to improve these areas by teaching new skills. Family therapies in which the emphasis is on teaching the toddler’s family different ways to interact with the toddler to promote their social and emotional development. Sensory integration therapies and a sensory diet, to improve your child’s tolerance to sensory input and manage hyperactivity. Educational therapies that are highly structured individually tailored programs executed by a team of specialists who have expertise in communicating with and teaching individuals with ASD. Medications such as antidepressants or antipsychotics can be somewhat effective in controlling symptoms such as anxiety and severe behavioral problems, respectively.
