INTRODUCTION
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurological disorder that can affect a person’s social and functional communication skills, sensory skills, learning styles, feeding, and behaviors. Around 1 in 36 children in the United States are identified to have ASD. Typically, communication and language difficulties are the first indicators of a child being on the Autism Spectrum. Children with ASD often struggle with language expression and language comprehension, including nonverbal cues such as body language and facial expressions. They also present with sensory issues, behavioral challenges, and feeding difficulties. Early identification and intervention is crucial for your child’s potential.
SIGNS OF AUTISM
Signs of ASD can be identified as early as a year old. The following characteristics can be indicators that your child might be on the Autism Spectrum:
- Limited eye contact
- Not responding to their name when they are being called
- Limited participation in pretend and reciprocal play
- Engaging in repetitive play
- Making repetitive noises
- Echolalia
- Losing language after reaching a milestone of saying their first word/multiple words
- Limited communication
- Toe walking
- Difficulty with transitioning between activities
- Difficulty with managing emotions
- Sensory seeking behaviors including tactile, oral, and auditory stimulation
- Behavioral challenges
DIAGNOSING AND TREATING AUTISM
A team of specialists including speech-language pathologists (SLPs), occupational therapists (OTs), physical therapists (PTs), ABA therapists, feeding specialists, and developmental neurologists will test your child for Autism. While there is no diagnostic imaging or bloodwork that will indicate autism, your child’s team will look for red flags through developmental and behavioral screenings as well as caregiver input and observation. Your child can receive services including speech and language therapy, occupational therapy, physical therapy, ABA therapy, and feeding therapy depending on their needs. Allcare Therapy Services is comprised of SLPs, OTs, PTs, ABA therapists, and feeding specialists who are equipped to address and treat any difficulties that your child is having as a result of their Autism diagnosis. This is including, but not limited to, communication struggles, sensory seeking behaviors, limited play skills, transition difficulties, and texture aversions. Allcare Therapy Services offers both individual therapy and group therapy to target a child’s specific goals. Sensory play groups and social communication groups led by SLPs, OTs, and ABA therapists are offered for children who are struggling with these skills as a way to improve socialization among peers. We emphasize collaboration among therapists so that children who are receiving multiple therapies are supported in a comprehensive and holistic way. Our specialists provide extensive caregiver training in order to assist caregivers in implementing and generalizing strategies from therapy to at home and in the community.
CONCLUSION
Autism spectrum disorder is a neurological disorder that can affect a person’s social and functional communication skills, sensory skills, learning styles, feeding, and behaviors. It affects approximately 1 in every 36 children. If you suspect your child might be on the Autism Spectrum, consult a specialist at Allcare Therapy Services. It is imperative that a child receive support as soon as possible in order to reach their potential.