Autism Awareness
Symptoms of Autism
Fails to make eye contact- Will not smile when being smiled at
- Lack of response to the child's name or to a familiar voice
- Does not reach to be picked up
- Does not visually follow objects
- Does not ask for help with basic tasks
Older Children - The symptoms are varied and there are many warning signs
Does not wish to be touched or cuddled- Difficulties expressing feelings
- Does not share interests in toys or activities
- Ignores, or appears to not hear, when talked to
- Disinterested in others
Starts talking later than expected- Repeats certain words and phrases often
- Questions are answered by repeating the question
- Does not understand simple commands or questions.
- Takes things, such as jokes and exaggerations, too literally
Avoids eye contact- Unusual facial expressions
- Does not pick up on other peoples non-verbal communication
- Unusual reactions to sights, sounds, and smells.
- Lack of body language
- Likes a specific routine
- Is caused great stress when things change: schedule changes, household
re-arrangements, etc.
- Unexpected and unusual attachments to toys or other unexpected objects: keys, rubber bands, etc.
- Repetitive movements or actions, called "stimming."
