7 signs of autism in babies

Symptoms of the autism spectrum in babies are usually noticed after 12 months of birth, and it can be seen that the baby has difficulty communicating and playing with other children, although no physical changes appear, does not make sounds and does not respond when asked. called.

In the presence of these signs, it is recommended that a pediatrician be consulted so that the signs can be better assessed and ways to stimulate the baby can be suggested.

Autism is a disorder in which there are problems in communication, socialization and behavior, and the diagnosis can only be confirmed when the child is able to communicate and demonstrate the signs, which usually happens between 12 months of age. Find out more about childhood autism.

Signs of Autism in Babies

The main symptoms of autism in babies, which can be noticed between 12 and 24 months, are:

1. Not reacting to sounds

The baby is able to hear and react to this stimulus since pregnancy and when it is born it is normal to be scared when it hears a very loud noise, such as when an object falls near it. It is also normal for the child to turn their face towards the side where the sound of music or a toy is coming from and in this case, the baby with autism does not show any interest and does not react to any type of sound, which can leave their worried parents, thinking about the possibility of deafness.

The ear test can be performed and demonstrates that there is no hearing impairment, increasing the suspicion that the baby has some alteration.

2. Make no sound

It is normal that when babies are awake, they try to interact, attracting the attention of their parents or caregivers with small screams and moans. In the case of autism, the baby does not make any sound because despite not having any speech impairment, he prefers to remain silent, without interacting with others around him, so the autistic baby does not make sounds like “baba”, “ada” or “ohh.”

Children over 2 years of age should already form small sentences, but in the case of autism it is common for them to not use more than 2 words, forming a sentence, and simply point to what they want using an adult’s finger or else they repeat the words that are said to them several times in a row.

3. Lack of facial expressions

Babies can start to smile at around 2 months, and even though they don’t know exactly what a smile means, they ‘train’ these facial movements, especially when they are around adults and other children. In autistic babies, the smile may not be present and the child may always appear to have the same facial expression, as if they are never happy or satisfied.

4. Refusing hugs and kisses

Babies usually like kisses and hugs because it makes them feel safer and more loved. In the case of autism, there is a certain repulsion towards closeness and that is why the baby does not like to be held, does not look into the eyes and may refuse very close contact, even with people he or she interacts with on a daily basis.

5. Lack of response when called

At 1 year of age, the child is already able to respond when called, so when the father or mother calls for them, they can make a sound or go to meet them. In the case of autistic people, the baby does not respond, does not make any sound and does not turn towards the caller, completely ignoring them, as if they had not heard anything.

6. Not playing with other children

In addition to not trying to be close to other children, babies on the autistic spectrum prefer to stay away from them, avoiding all types of approaches, running away from them.

7. Having repetitive movements

One of the characteristics of autism is stereotypical movements, which consist of movements that are repeated constantly, such as moving your hands, hitting your head, banging your head against the wall, rocking or having other more complex movements. These movements can begin to be noticed after 1 year of life and tend to remain and intensify if treatment is not started.

What to do if you suspect autism

If the baby or child presents any of these signs, it is recommended to consult the pediatrician so that it is possible to better evaluate the signs presented and, if the autism spectrum is confirmed, it is possible to begin treatment and follow-up, which may involve psychomotor sessions. , speech therapy and use of medication, in some cases.

Generally, when autism is identified early, it is possible to undergo therapy with the child, in order to improve their communication and relationship skills, making it possible to reduce the degree of autism and allowing them to have a life similar to that of other children their age. Check details of treatment for autism.