Every April, we commemorate Autism Awareness Month. Why is it important to recognize autism with its own month? Early identification of autism in children helps parents and caregivers develop customized learning plans, so it's vital that you understand this evolving diagnosis. The last decade has witnessed significant changes in how autism is diagnosed, with a number of types folded up under a single diagnosis in 2013.
Autism has always existed on a spectrum; the symptoms of two children with the same diagnosis are rarely the same. Still, it is good to learn how to identify and label the different types of autism. Here are three of the main terms you need to know.
ASD
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is the most common, and broadest, type of autism diagnosis. Forms of autism like Asperger's used to have their own designation; however, in 2013, the American Psychiatric Association redefined autism in such as way that Asperger's is now included under the wide umbrella of ASD. Children diagnosed as ASD typically exhibit the classic symptoms of autism, including language delays and social interaction challenges.
Understanding Common Signs of Autism in Children
Every child is different, and autism can look different from one child to another. Some signs may be easy to spot early on, while others might become more noticeable as a child grows. Here are some common traits parents often observe:
Social & Communication Differences
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Limited eye contact or doesn’t always respond to their name
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Prefers solo play and may not show interest in playing with others
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Has trouble understanding tone of voice, facial expressions, or jokes
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May struggle to express thoughts or emotions clearly
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Conversations can be one-sided or repetitive
Repetitive Behaviors & Strong Interests
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Repeats certain actions, words, or phrases over and over
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Becomes very focused on specific topics or objects (like trains, animals, or maps)
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Prefers routines and may get upset when things change unexpectedly
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May flap hands, rock, spin, or engage in other repetitive movements
Sensory Sensitivities
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Reacts strongly to certain noises, textures, or lights
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Avoids wearing certain clothes or eating certain foods because of how they feel
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May seek out sensory experiences, like jumping, spinning, or touching everything
Other Common Signs
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Speech delays or limited use of language
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Difficulty with motor coordination (may seem clumsy or awkward)
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Big emotional reactions or difficulty calming down
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Unique learning styles and problem-solving approaches
PDD-NOS
Pervasive Development Disorder - Not Otherwise Specified refers to individuals who meet some of the criteria for autism. Your child may, for instance, have mild problems with social interaction but nearly full communication function. Historically, children who had symptoms more severe than Asperger's but not as severe as ASD were placed into this category. Even though ASD has become more broad, PDD-NOS is still in its own category.
SPD
Sensory Processing Disorder, or SPD, is often associated with autism. If your child shows problems with motor functions, SPD may be the source. This condition exists when the nervous system is unable to interpret sensory information and translate it to motor functions or behaviors. About 3/4 of children with autism also have symptoms of SPD. That being said, SPD can also exist independently of autism.
Support for Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)
Autism is an evolving diagnosis, and the spectrum of disorders and issues is often misunderstood. Through enhanced awareness and the spread of information, early diagnosis and greater acceptance of people on the autism spectrum is possible.
Seeing these signs doesn’t mean something is “wrong.” It may simply mean your child’s brain processes the world differently. The earlier you notice and support those differences, the better equipped your child will be to thrive. Autism is not a one-size-fits-all diagnosis—and neither is the path forward.
At Brain Balance, we empower children with Autism differently. We will give you answers as to why your child is acting this way and create a custom plan to help your child overcome his or her struggles. Brain Balance is a personalized, holistic program that engages the brain and body to address aspects of daily functioning, including emotional, social and behavioral issues. The program uses an integrated approach that combines cognitive brain training with sensorimotor exercises and nutritional guidance. This program does not prescribe medication and does not require a diagnosis.
Through our comprehensive assessment, we will identify areas of the brain that need strengthening. We will then create personalized services for children with Autism to strengthen the weaker areas and restore balance.
Brain Balance's evidence-based program combines all the tools necessary for your child to thrive into one integrated program. Click the link below to contact us and set up your child's personalized assessment.
