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 appropriate 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 are 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 affected, including, language, social communication, intellectual abilities, social skills, and adaptive behaviors. Some children who are diagnosed with autism also exhibit repetitive behaviors and fixated interests. 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 evaluation:
- Repetitive behaviors
- Parroting speech(echolalia)
- Delayed or no speech
- Insistence of specific routines, objects, interests
- Difficulty with activities of daily living and following directions
- Difficulty with eye contact
- Lack of shared 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 includes the following steps with evidenced-based measures:
- Parent interview and administration of a structured parent interview
- Child autism testing with a psychologist specialized toys and games (ADOS)
- Cognitive testing with child
- Parent questionnaire
- Teacher questionnaires
- Consultation (or data gathering) with schools, pediatrician, and related health personnel
- 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
Does it seem as though you are hearing more and more about Autism?
It may be because the rates are rising. Recent information released from the CDC cites that the rate of child autism in the US rose to 1 in 44 from 1 in 56 the previous two years. Furthermore, developmental disabilities in general are on the rise as 1 in 6 children were diagnosed with one between 2009 and 2017. Although we do not know for sure the cause of these disabilities, we do know that we are learning more every day on how to detect and treat developmental disabilities at a very rapid rate. There is also growing research on how the early detection of Autism in children under 12 months old may lead to interventions that improve social skills and reduce maladaptive behavior.
Fortunately for families in the US, we have one of the most comprehensive service systems for children with disabilities. Unfortunately, however, it is not without flaws. For instance, many children are denied Early Intervention (EI) because the child’s symptoms are not severe enough. The services are reserved for children with the most need. This means that many children in need go without detection or help. What can you do if you suspect your child may have a developmental disability and you are told they are either too young for an evaluation or denied services?
You may wish to seek the services of a child psychologist, but even then, you may be turned away because many psychologists work with children 3 years and older. There is a significant paucity of specialists in the field of developmental psychology who specialize in children ages 0-3. Manhattan Psychology Group, PC is proud to offer the services.
Yes, it is true that according to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Psychological Disorders (DSM-5) the diagnosis is not normally made before age 2, but many signs can be present and the sooner you get treatment for your child, the better their chances of success. Even if you do not suspect autism and see slight delays in milestones, your child could benefit from a developmental evaluation.
