Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) may often cause a person to have challenges with social, behavioral, and communication skills. They may be non-verbal, have repetitive behaviors, and/or rigid routines. An autism diagnosis may cause a person to have difficultly reading body language and understanding social cues. Autistics may learn different and may need accommodations in a school setting. Signs of ASD begin during early childhood and typically last throughout a person’s lifetime. According to the Center for Disease Control, ASD can sometimes be detected at 18 months or younger. By age 2, a diagnosis by an experienced professional can be considered very reliable. However, many children do not receive a final diagnosis until much older. This delay means that children with ASD might not get the early help they need. This is why early diagnosis and intervention is key.

There is no known cure for autism. However, many families look to alternative treatments, bio medical medicine, and dietary restrictions to help with some of the symptoms associated with autism. If you suspect that your child may be on the spectrum or is experiencing delayed development in areas such as speech, reach out to a developmental pediatrician, child neurologist, or a child psychologist. If your child is under three they may qualify for Georgia’s Babies Can’t Wait program.