Autism Symptoms Meaning | Cadabam’s Child Development Center

Why Early Recognition Matters

• Earlier support = stronger lifelong skills.
• Brain plasticity peaks between 0–5 years, making intervention most effective.
• Reduces stress for both child and family through clear guidance.

How Symptoms Vary by Age and Severity

• Severity ranges from needing daily support to requiring minimal assistance.
• Age influences expression: toddlers may avoid eye contact, while school-age children may struggle with back-and-forth conversation.

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2. Core Autism Symptoms Explained

Social Communication Signs

• Limited eye contact or inconsistent gaze
• Delayed or absent spoken language, or repeating words out of context (echolalia)
• Difficulty sharing interests or emotions, such as not pointing at objects to show parents

Restricted or Repetitive Behaviors

• Lining up toys in exact order or extreme distress at small changes
• Hand-flapping, rocking, or spinning objects for long periods
• Intense interest in narrow topics (e.g., vacuum cleaner models)

Sensory Sensitivities and Interests

• Over- or under-reaction to sounds, textures, lights, or smells
• Seeking deep pressure hugs or covering ears in noisy supermarkets
• Fascination with visual patterns such as spinning fans

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3. Autism Symptoms by Age Group

Toddlers (12–36 months)

• No response to name by 12 months
• Limited babbling or gestures like waving “bye-bye”
• Lack of pretend play (e.g., not feeding a doll)

Preschoolers (3–5 years)

• Difficulty making friends or joining group play
• Repeating phrases from cartoons instead of original speech
• Strong preference for sameness—same route to preschool every day

School-age Children

• Trouble reading facial expressions or tone of voice
• Monologues about favorite topics without noticing listener interest
• Sensitivity to school bell sounds leading to meltdowns

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4. What Causes These Symptoms?

Genetic and Neurobiological Factors

• Certain gene combinations increase likelihood of ASD.
• Differences in brain connectivity affect social and sensory processing.

Environmental Influences

• Advanced parental age at conception shows small but consistent correlation.
• Prenatal exposure to certain medications or infections may elevate risk.

Risk Factors vs. Myths

• Fact: Vaccines do not cause autism—extensive global studies confirm this.
• Fact: Parenting style does not create ASD; it is biologically based.

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5. Step-by-Step Process: Getting an Autism Evaluation

Screening Questionnaires

• M-CHAT-R for toddlers (simple yes/no checklist at 18- and 24-month visits).
• SCQ or SRS for older children, completed by parents and teachers.

Comprehensive Diagnostic Assessment

• Multi-disciplinary team at Cadabams CDC reviews medical history, observes play, and conducts standardized tests (ADOS-2, CARS-2).
• Speech–language and occupational therapists assess communication and sensory profiles.

Next Steps After Diagnosis

• Receive a detailed report with personalized goals.
• Begin evidence-based interventions within weeks, not months.
• Join parent support groups to share strategies and reduce isolation.

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6. Effective Treatments That Address Autism Symptoms

Behavioral Interventions

• Early Intensive Behavioral Intervention (EIBI): 20–40 hours per week of play-based learning to build language, social, and daily-living skills.
• Pivotal Response Treatment (PRT): Focuses on motivation and self-initiation, improving communication in natural settings.

Speech and Occupational Therapy

• Speech therapy targets articulation, conversation turn-taking, and alternative communication devices if needed.
• Occupational therapy addresses sensory regulation, fine-motor skills for handwriting, and self-care routines like dressing.

Family-Centered Support Programs

• Parent training sessions teach how to reinforce skills at home.
• Sibling workshops foster understanding and strengthen family bonds.
• Respite care options give parents essential rest.

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