Children with autism often have difficulty handling change and relating to others. But their behavior may improve with treatment and age.

It’s important for parents to know the symptoms of autism so that children with it can get help quickly. Kids with autism may have problems with:

• Socializing. Even as babies, autistic children may interact less with others. Later, they may not make friends. And they may behave poorly around other kids.
• Conversing. Most young children like talking with others. But children with autism often speak less. When they do talk, they tend to speak at people, not with them.
• Repeating. Autism can cause children to repeat words and actions. For instance, an autistic child might say the same sentence over and over. Or he might rock back and forth repeatedly.
• Imagining. Instead of playing creatively with toys, autistic children may focus on small details. For example, an autistic child might spin a toy car’s wheel, not race the car.

Another sign of autism is a strong ability to remember things. For instance, an autistic child might repeat a conversation word-for-word. Or he might draw a perfect picture of something he’s seen.

If you think your child may be autistic, contact his doctor right away. Or visit Autism Speaks for more information.

Copyright © Parent Institute