Autism is a developmental disorder that usually begins in early childhood and typically lasts a lifetime. With early detection and appropriate intervention, children diagnosed with autism can experience significantly better quality of life than those who are not diagnosed. Early and appropriate interventions means that your child has the best chance at learning good behaviors early and the possibility of lessening the symptoms of autism over time. This can translate into more independence, improved school performance, and better relationships over the life span. Early assessment and intervention is critical. Autism impacts a child’s ability to function at a developmentally appropriate age. According to the Diagnostic Statistical Manual 5 (DSM-5), several areas of functioning are effected, including, language, social communication, intellectual abilities, socials skills, and adaptive behaviors. Some children who are diagnosed with autism also exhibit repetitive behaviors. Not every child with repetitive behaviors or social difficulties meets criteria for autism. Also, not every child who is diagnosed with autism exhibits all the symptoms. This is why it is so important to see a trained psychologist to administer an evidence-based test to determine your child’s true diagnosis. So what does all that mean for your child? If your child is exhibiting one or more of the following symptoms, you may want to talk to a professional about an autism diagnosis: Repetitive behaviors Parroting speech Delayed or no speech Insistence of specific routines, objects, interests Difficulty with activities of daily living and following directions Difficulty with eye contact and lack of shared visual enjoyment Lack of facial gestures or emotional expression Inability to read or understand facial gestures or social cues Sensitivity to touch, smells, temperature, light, or sound Food avoidance, highly selective with feeding, texture avoidant Difficulty getting along with others and making friends Excessive independent play and restricted sharing What can I expect with an autism evaluation? Autism testing can be conducted in-person or virtually and includes the following steps with evidenced-based measures: Parent interview and administration of a structured parent interview Child autism testing with a psychologist and the parent present for assistance with regular household toys and games (ADOS) Cognitive testing with child Parent questionnaire Report writing Feedback session with results and recommendations Reasons to have my child tested for autism: Individual Education Plan (IEP) and special services in school to improve learning Initiate Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABA) therapy Determine whether an Occupational Therapy or Speech Therapy Evaluation is needed Benefits eligibility and determination Piece of mind by having a deeper understanding of my child’s challenges Access to community services, supports, and benefits
