17 Ways to Tell If Your Child is Autistic
Every mother wants her child to be perfectly healthy and normal. But nature is not so kind always. Sometimes children do get sick; sometimes children attract certain diseases that become an inseparable part of who they are. Sometimes a child can be autistic. But as a parent, your duty is not just to hope for the best, but also to do your part in ensuring that your child gets all the care and treatment required in case he/she turns out to be autistic. Autism is a neurological disorder which appears in infancy and early childhood and should be diagnosed as early in life as possible so as to diminish its impairing effects in the long term and help the child grow up to his/her full potential and live life the best way he/she can. It is possible to detect if your child is autistic or not. Here are 17 ways to tell if your child is autistic.
1. Your child does not make eye contact
In babies and toddlers, the most obvious yet delusional symptom is that they do not make eye contact. You will find that while feeding and playing he/she is not looking at you.
2. Your child does not smile back
They do not smile back at you when you smile at them.
3. Your child does not respond
They do not follow your voice, or respond when their name is called. They also do not visually follow any object.
4. Your child does not understand gestures
Like other babies, they do not follow hand gestures. Also, they do not wave or point at objects and people.
5. Your child is quieter than normal
They do not make ordinary baby sounds or cry out when they want attention. They are usually quieter.
6. Your child does not respond to cuddling
They do not like cuddling, and do not respond to it. They also do not respond or try to mimic your facial expressions.
7. Your child displays disinterest
As they grow older, autistic children show symptoms of disinterest. They do not like being around a lot of people. Also, they do not take notice of what is going on around them.
8. Your child avoids touch
They do not like hugging, cuddling and to be held closely by anyone, even a parent. They mostly avoid being touched as well.
9. Your child keeps to himself/herself
They do not make friends and generally avoid group activities or group games. They keep to themselves and do not try to connect with others.
