Autism can present in varying ways from person to person, which can make it difficult to identify for someone who does not have training to make a diagnosis. To make it further complicated, children with autism may demonstrate similar behaviours of young children without autism. This is why it is important to gain a professional review if you have any concerns so that suitable assessment, support, and treatment can be provided.
If you are noticing developmental factors that your child is having difficulties with, speech therapy may go a long way in assisting and supporting their development. Our experienced speech therapists at Chatterbox Speech Pathology can provide assessment and interventions that are tailored to your child and their specific needs.
To help you understand some indicators that could show a child may benefit from a professional assessment, we will detail here the common signs of autism.
What is Autism?
Autism, also known as autism spectrum disorder, can affect a child’s social and communication abilities. People who have this neurodevelopmental disorder may also carry out certain behaviours, such as repeating specific actions. The extent to which autism affects a child and how it presents differs greatly, which is why it is crucial that any therapy that is undertaken is personalised to their needs and preferences.
Signs of Autism
Signs of autism may be identifiable as early as when a child is a few months old, but it often becomes more noticeable as they get older. Some children may display a couple of signs, others may show many. If you are concerned, it may be beneficial to seek help as soon as possible because early intervention may be advantageous.
There are various signs of autism that may present throughout childhood. These may include the following:
- Reduced ability to cope with minor alterations to environment or routine.
- Difficulty recognising or interpreting the emotions of others.
- Preference for being alone.
- Delayed development of speech and language.
- Decreasing ability to speak or socialise.
- Refraining from making eye contact.
- Obsessive-like interests and/or repetitive behaviours.
- Sensitivities to sensory input, such as sounds or textures.
Age-Specific Signs of Autism
To further discuss the potential signs of autism, it can be useful to break them down into age ranges that they commonly present. Your child may display these signs at a different age, so please keep in mind that this is a guide.
Babies
It can be difficult to notice signs in a baby, but there are a few you may become aware of. For example:
- No or limited eye contact and gestures.
- No response to or focus on new faces, objects, or sounds.
- No smiling, laughing, or babbling.
- Resists signs of affection, such as hugging.
- Inability to crawl or stand with support.
Toddlers
- Reduced ability or inability to walk.
- Little or no speech.
- Does not attempt to copy actions.
- Falls regularly.
- Does not follow simple directions.
- Is not keen to interact with other children.
- Difficulty with fine motor skills.
Preschoolers
- Avoids social situations and interactions.
- Prefers to be with familiar people.
- Little or no interest in creative and imagination-based play.
- Little or no language development.
- Unusual speech patterns, such as repetition.
- Frequent crying, or no crying when expected.
- Difficulties with toilet training, eating, and/pr sleeping.
Primary School-Age
- Reduced ability to understand non-verbal cues and communication.
- Trouble maintaining conversations.
- Monotone speech.
- Difficulties understanding social cues and expectations.
- Finds beginning or maintaining friendships difficult.
- May become aggressive or anxious in certain situations.
How Can Speech Therapy Help?
A diagnosis of autism may feel overwhelming, however, there are various options for support, intervention, and management. Speech therapy is one facet of care that may be significantly beneficial to many children with autism because of their difficulties with language development, communication, self-expression, and social interaction. Tailored speech therapy has the potential to enhance a child’s ability to express themselves, engage and interact with others, and perform academically, which can lead to increased independence, self-confidence, and overall quality of life.
Speech therapy for children with autism involves a range of strategies and techniques that are personalised to the needs and preferences of each child. These may include options such as:
- Exercises and activities aimed at improving speech sound production, vocabulary, and sentence structure.
- Positive reinforcement for certain behaviours.
- Storytelling and roleplaying that involves themes such as social norms and promotes communication.
- Picture cards to help them express themselves and understand others.
- Augmentative and alternative communication devices (AAC) to support or enable communication.
- Parent education regarding communication support and speech therapy at home.
Read related article: Types of Therapies for Autism
Gain Trusted Support at Chatterbox Speech Pathology
Our speech therapists are highly qualified and experienced in supporting children with autism and their families. It is important to us to deliver high-quality care that is personalised and comprehensive to help your child reach their full potential.
If you are interested in speech therapy for your child with autism, or are wondering if your child may have autism, please contact our friendly team to organise an initial consultation.
