April is Autism Awareness Month and we’re continuing our chats about autism awareness.

What are the signs and symptoms?

• They may not point at objects top show interest (for example, not point at an airplane flying)

• They will not look at objects when another person points at them.

• They have trouble relating to others or now have an interest in other people at all.

• They will avoid eye contact and want to be alone

• They have trouble understanding other people’s feelings or talking about their own feelings.

• They prefer not to be held or cuddled, or might cuddle only when then want to.

• They appear to be unaware when people talk to them, but respond to other sounds.

Symptoms also include:

• They repeat or echo words or phrases said to them.

• They have trouble expressing their needs using typical words or motions.

• They repeat actions over and over again.

• They have trouble adapting when a routine changes.

• They may have sensitivity reactions to the way that:⁠ -things smell, taste, look, feel or sound.

• They lose skills they once had.

Is there a treatment?

• There is currently no cure for ASD. However, research shows that early intervention treatment services can improve a child’s development

• It can help children from birth to 3 years old learn important life skills.

For some, it may be their first chance to really understand what it means to have autism and see the beauty that comes with it.

We hope by creating awareness of ASD, we can help to promote inclusivity and acceptance.

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