Autism Symptoms in Kids | Cadabam’s Child Development Center

1. Overview: Why Early Detection of Autism in Children Matters

How Early Signs Appear

Most signs emerge between 12 and 24 months, but subtle differences can be spotted even earlier:

• Limited eye contact by 3–4 months
• No response to name by 9 months
• Few or no gestures (pointing, waving) by 12 months

Impact of Early Intervention

Research shows children who begin therapy before age four gain:

• Higher IQ gains (average 17-point increase)
• Stronger language skills
• Better long-term social relationships Early help rewires neural pathways when the brain is most adaptable.

2. Common Autism Signs in Young Children (Ages 1–5)

Social Communication Red Flags

• Doesn’t share enjoyment—rarely shows you toys or smiles back
• Delayed speech or no two-word phrases by 24 months
• Prefers to play alone even when other kids are present

Repetitive Behaviors & Restricted Interests

• Lines up toys in strict order and gets upset if moved
• Intense fixation on a single topic (e.g., wheels, logos)
• Hand-flapping or rocking when excited or stressed

Sensory Sensitivities Checklist

• Covers ears for everyday sounds (vacuum, mixer)
• Avoids certain textures in food or clothing
• Seeks deep pressure—crashing into furniture, tight hugs

3. Autism Symptoms in Older Children (Ages 6–12)

Academic & Peer-Interaction Challenges

• Difficulty understanding figurative language or jokes
• Struggles to maintain back-and-forth conversations
• May be labeled “lazy” because of executive-function hurdles (planning, organizing)

Advanced Repetitive Routines and Special Interests

• Collects exhaustive facts on narrow topics (e.g., metro schedules)
• Eats identical breakfast daily; meltdown if routine changes
• Creates elaborate rules for board games and insists others follow them

Masking in Girls vs Visible Signs in Boys

Girls often camouflage symptoms by mimicking peers, leading to missed diagnoses. Watch for:

• Excessive people-pleasing or scripting conversations
• Emotional exhaustion after school (“after-school crash”)
• Boys’ signs are usually more overt, such as clear repetitive movements or blunt speech

4. Quick Self-Screening Checklist for Parents

Answer Yes or No to each question: Social & Communication

• Does your child avoid eye contact or use it fleetingly?
• Does your child rarely point or show objects to share interest? Behavior
• Does your child repeat words or phrases over and over?
• Does your child line up toys or objects in specific ways? Sensory
• Does your child react unusually to sounds, textures, or lights? Scoring Guidance:
• 0–2 “Yes”: Possible typical development; monitor.
• 3–4 “Yes”: Consider a consultation.
• 5+ “Yes”: Schedule a comprehensive assessment at Cadabams CDC. Next Steps: Whatsapp us your score for free guidance.

5. Diagnostic Process: How We Assess Autism at Cadabam’s CDC

Step 1: Initial Developmental History Intake

A senior child psychologist gathers milestones, family history, and current concerns via parent interview.

Step 2: ADOS-2 & Other Standardized Tools

• Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule, 2nd Edition (ADOS-2)
• CARS-2 rating scale
• Cognitive and language testing as needed

Step 3: Multi-Disciplinary Team Review

Results are discussed by a panel of clinical psychologists, speech-language pathologists, and occupational therapists to ensure accuracy.

Step 4: Personalized Intervention Roadmap

We map priority goals (communication, daily living skills, social play) and schedule therapy sessions around school hours.

6. Evidence-Based Therapies We Offer After Diagnosis

• Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA): 1:1 sessions targeting language, social, and self-help skills with measurable goals.
• Speech & Language Therapy: Addresses articulation, pragmatic language, and conversational turn-taking.
• Occupational Therapy for Sensory Issues: Sensory diets, fine-motor training, and environmental modifications.
• Social Skills Groups: Small peer groups practicing greetings, sharing, and conflict resolution under expert guidance.

7. Real Outcomes: Success Stories from Our Center

Case Snapshot: 3-Year-Old With Limited Speech

Arjun used only 5 words. After six months of ABA and speech therapy, he reached 200+ words and started two-word phrases. Today he attends regular preschool with support.

Case Snapshot: 8-Year-Old With Peer-Interaction Challenges

Meera struggled to make friends. Through social-skills groups and occupational therapy, she learned to read body language and joined her school’s chess club—now she teaches younger kids.