What is autism?
Autism is a developmental disability that often begins showing symptoms in early childhood. It’s considered a “spectrum” condition because there are so many variations and levels of severity.
Some people with autism are able to earn college degrees, achieve success in the workplace, and have families of their own. Others need extensive help in their day-to-day lives and are unable to live independently. Many experience trouble with communication, social, and emotional skills.
What are some signs my child might have autism?
Autism does not create the same symptoms in every child, so there is not a clear list of signs to watch for. That said, most parents of autistic kids are aware that something is unusual even in the earliest years.
Some signs that a child might fall on the autism spectrum include:
- Not making eye contact
- Inability to play pretend or make-believe games
- Failure to point at objects of interest or track objects pointed to by others
- Need to repeat sounds or actions again and again
- Delayed verbal skills
- Difficulty interpreting body language or emotions of others
- Lack of interest in being held or cuddled
- Challenges adapting to changes in their normal environment or routines
These are just a few of the signs that a child may have autism. Parents who notice unusual or troubling behaviors should schedule a diagnostic exam to find answers.
How can I help my autistic child thrive?
All parents want the best for their kids. For kids with autism, the path to success may look a bit different, but there are ways to support kids within the framework of their strengths and challenges.
Dr. Ahmed uses a range of tools and techniques to help autistic kids and their parents learn how to live full and rich lives. Play therapy is one approach and helps children explore their emotions and act out various scenarios in a low stress, fun environment. Through these sessions, you’ll learn ways to expand on play therapy at home, building a stronger bond with your child.
Cognitive behavioral therapy is another great option. This form of talk therapy helps kids learn how to evaluate their own thoughts and ideas and make conscious decisions about how to respond. This process can go a long way toward helping kids succeed in social settings where making connections with others may not come naturally.
Medication can help address some of the challenges of autism, but is never the first choice in treatment options. Dr. Ahmed understands that autism is a lifelong condition and strives to find nonpharmaceutical tools that your child can expand upon and bring into adulthood.
Learn more about autism care during a face-to-face consultation at The PsyClinic.We see patients in the following locations: River Oaks, Webster, Baytown, and Houston, Texas. Call the office today to book your initial evaluation, or spend a few moments on the online scheduling page.
