Autism rates have been on an upward trend in recent years, as evidenced by the periodic reports issued by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). However, this doesn’t necessarily mean that more children are developing autism, but rather that parents, teachers, and caregivers are getting better at recognizing the symptoms of autism. This is a good thing because it means more children are getting the early intervention they need to reach their full potential.
Take a moment to remind yourself of the potential signs of autism, which include developmental issues like speech delays and learning challenges. Avoidance of eye contact, atypical play behaviors, repetition of words and phrases, and an insistence on following a predictable routine are other possible signs. Some children with autism may resist physical contact (like hugs), prefer to play alone, and demonstrate an apparent lack of awareness about safety issues.
If you’re concerned about your child’s development, contact The Behavior Exchange today at (888) 716-8084. Our board-certified behavior analysts look forward to meeting you and your child.