Why Early Screening for Autism is Important

With an increasing rate of autism being diagnosed in children, it's becoming even more imperative for parents to have early screening done on even their toddlers and babies. In fact, in an Associated News Report earlier this week, the American Academy of Pediatrics urged parents to have all children screened for autism not once, but twice, by their second birthdays.

About one in 166 children is diagnosed with autism, with the numbers climbing each year. A development disorder, autism is a condition where a person's communication and social skills are lacking. What's more, autistic children also exhibit unusual behavior and have bizarre interests, such as repetitive actions as rocking, shaking their hands, and head banging. They usually fail to make eye contact, as well as not respond when someone speaks to them.

Autism is usually not detected until age four or five. However, now professionals are urging parents to get their babies screened as early intervention grants parents more opportunities for their autistic children to receive needed therapies. Children who receive beginning treatments and programs as babies and toddlers will do better, in general, when they're older and attend school.

If you suspect your baby has autism, it's important to have him (or her) diagnosed as soon as possible. Babies usually make certain accomplishments in their development as they grow. Here are a few of the red flags suggesting there may be problems.

By 4 months old---Most babies have responded to their parents' voices by age 4 months. If your 4-month-old baby doesn't respond to your voice, then you can suspect something is wrong.

By 6 months old---At half a year old your baby should be flashing wide smiles and other happy expressions, showing that he's sociable. If you still haven't witnessed a big smile from him, that's a sign that he could have autism.

By 12 months old----Your baby should be making a few babbling sounds at this age. If he (or she) reaches that milestone first birthday and still hasn't babbled, then there may be something wrong. What's more, your 12-month-old should be pointing to toys and familiar faces such as those of Mom and Dad. In other words, he should also be communicating with his hands. If you don't see him pointing, reaching or waving by this time, then that's another red flag of possible autism.

By 16 months---Has your baby still not uttered that first word? By 16 months, most babies have mastered a few words. If your baby still hasn't said a single word, then that's a red flag.

By 24 months----By the time your baby reaches his second birthday, he should be making a few two-word phrases such as, "Come doggie, Gimme cookie", etc." This is another indication of lack of interaction with others, living in his own little world.

How do you get your baby screened for autism? First, start with your pediatrician. Also, check out all the websites on autism by doing a Google search. Parents living in states such as Massachusetts can have early intervention specialists come to their homes for testing their children.

Is there a cure for autism? Unfortunately, there is not a cure at this time. However, by getting an early detection, you can start your baby receiving the particular therapies he needs to make it less severe, as he learns to cope with his disability.