Autism Spectrum Disorder
Autism Spectrum Disorders refers to a disability that is usually linked to a wide range of communication challenges. Autism can affect speech, language and social communication in many ways. Speech and language intervention for children with Autism typically focuses on articulation, verbal and non-verbal communication, comprehension of others intentions in a variety of social situations, initiating social communication, conversational turn-taking, developing relationships through communication, minimizing repetitive behaviors and playing with peers, as well as other areas of need.
Research has indicated early identification and intervention is a key factor in maximizing communication skills for a child with Autism. Intervention will involve a team of caregivers including parents, teachers, Speech-Language Pathologist, Pediatrician and possibly other professionals.
Possible Indicators
Your child may exhibit the following:
- Does not babble, point, or make meaningful gestures by 1 year of age
- Does not speak one word by 16 months
- Does not combine two words by 2 years
- Does not respond to name
- Loses language or social skills
Other indicators may include:
- Poor eye contact
- Doesn’t seem to know how to play with toys
- Excessively lines up toys or other objects
- Is attached to one particular toy or object
- Doesn’t smile
- At times seems to be hearing impaired
