Autism is a complex brain disorder that typically appears during a child’s first three years and lasts throughout a person's lifetime. It is also referred to as spectrum disorder because of the wide range of symptoms and severity.

It is lifelong and has biological bases, but the causes of Autism are not know as yet. However, genetics and environment play a role

There is no known cure, however it is treatable.

Disorder is neurological because it is connected to Central and peripheral  nervous system; for example, brain and spinal cord disorder is developmental because it occurs at some stage in child’s development, hence delaying it.

Autism affects three area of functioning:

• Communication Forming
• Social Relationships
• Maladaptive and stereotypical behaviors

What are symptoms of Autism ?

Impairments in communication :

• Delay or lack of spoken language
• No attempts to use other modes of alternative communication; such as gestures and pointing.
• Inability to initiate or sustain conversation in individuals with adequate speech
• Repetitive or stereotype use of language; for instance, echolalia (repeating heard words)
• Delay or lack of spoken language
• No attempts to use other modes of alternative communication; such as gestures

Impairments in social interaction:

• Failure to develop peer relationship
• Lacking social or emotional reciprocity
• Failure to engage in non verbal behaviours, for example, facial expression, body postures, eye to eye gaze etc.
• Repetitive and stereotypical patterns of behaviour :
• nflexible adherence to specific nonfunctional routines and objects
• Repetitive motor actions; for instance, finger or hand flapping, or any other body movements

Diagnosis of Autism?

Parents and family members are usually the first to notice delays in a child meeting the usual developmental milestones. However, Autism is not diagnosed on only one factor or symptom but based on combination of specific behavior, communication delays and developmental disability. So when you suspect any differences in the ability to speak or unable to make social interactions in your child, parents or caregivers are advised to speak to their General Physician or contact Hope Autism for further help.  Our team of Psychologist and Psychotherapist can provide necessary diagnoses for Autism and other developmental delay disorders.

Please visit the Autism Ontario's red flag list for Autism, and if you notice these behavior please contact your Physical for possible Autism symptom. LINK

You can also visit Ministry of Child and Youth website LINK