Many autistic children are highly attuned or even painfully sensitive to certain sounds, textures, tastes or smells. Sensory Difficulties - In children with autism, the brain seems unable to balance the senses appropriately.A minor change in routine may be tremendously upsetting. Often, people with autism demand consistency in their environment. Odd repetitive motions, either extreme or subtle, such as arm-flapping, freezing, rocking back and forth or walking on their toes may also occur. Intense preoccupation with certain topics, such as obsessively studying maps, may also be seen. For example, a child may spend long periods of time arranging specific toys in a particular manner, rather than playing with the toys. Repetitive Behaviors - Patterns of behavior, interests and activities may be restricted, repetitive or stereotyped.They may also appear deaf, not responding to their names or attempts at conversation. They have difficulty expressing what they want or need. Facial expressions, tone of voice and gestures often do not match verbal content and emotions. Body language is also often hard to read in children with autism. Others may experience delays or regression in language development still others remain mute or may use language in unusual ways, such as repeating a phrase, or parroting what they hear (echolalia). Some children may have good basic language skills, but exhibit difficulty initiating or sustaining conversations, such as not giving others the opportunity to respond. Communication Difficulties - Communication skills are affected in children with autism, but difficulties vary.Head-banging, hair-pulling and arm-biting may occur. They may also have difficulty controlling emotion, may be disruptive or aggressive at times, or may lose control, especially when frustrated or presented with a new situation or environment. Thus, they are unable to predict or understand other peoples’ behavior. They are often unable to read social cues or exhibit emotional reciprocity. They may avoid eye contact and interactions with people and resist or passively accept attention. Social Deficits - Children with autism have difficulty in social interactions.Atypical development may be observed from birth, or more commonly, become noticeable during the 12- to 36-month period. Symptoms/behaviors of ASDs can range from mild to severe, and may seem to appear gradually or suddenly.
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |