There have been numerous hypotheses of autism signs developing among children who have had some exposure to dangerous environments, like heavy metals in the atmosphere, dangerous pesticides being sprayed around, as well as certain vaccines. However, as autism signs are developed quite early on, there is the rare suggestion of it being more a birth defect.
Autism signs develop gradually, and need a keen sense of observation to be able to make a sound assessment. In numerous cases, early intervention and support has helped give autistic individuals the necessary skills to undertake self-care and improve their communication abilities; there is no known cure for autism.
With almost 2 percent of children suffering from autism around the world, it is a good idea to make yourself aware of the autism signs to be aware of, especially if you are a parent or expecting to be in the near future. The earlier one can diagnose and begin treatment, the better the chances of improvement for the individual suffering from the disorder.
Some of the autism signs to look for are:
• Child at the age of 1 not able to talk or babble, or point or make gestures that are evident of some meaning
• By the age of 16 months, the child is unable to speak one word, or offer any form of speech
• Child does not respond to his/her own name when called out by anyone
• There is poor eye contact, such that the child seems to constantly shy away from looking at an individual when either saying something or doing something
• A lack of smile, even when something sweet or funny is said
• Child showing a lack of knowledge of how to play with toys as per their identified usage
• An excessive nature in lining up his/her items, toys or other stuff
• Child shows particular affinity to one object or item, causing great commotion without it
You cannot take the above as concrete autism signs, as there are likely to be other explanations for some or most of the things stated. However, these are the most common autism signs witnessed by parents, and due to their usual nature, can get sidelined as something not needing further attention.
Parents should be careful at all times, including prior to birth. Once the child is born, they should keep an eye out for these autism signs so that an early diagnosis can be made. After all, knowing what to look for and what to make of it is half the job done!