Signs & Symptoms of Autism in Children

The current rate for diagnosis of autism spectrum disorders (ASD) in children is one in 150. Of those, three out of four are boys. This includes children with pervasive development disorder (PDD), autism and Asperger's syndrome. An increasing number of students with ASD are being mainstreamed, and it's becoming more likely that you will encounter a child with autism somewhere sometime.

Schedules

• Children with ASD often follow rigid schedules, unable to handle the slightest change in their predictable routines.

Speech

• Some children with autism will be completely non-verbal, while others may speak in a stilted or formal way. Others still may show no difference, but may be fixated on a particular topic and fight any attempts to turn the conversation to another subject.

Social Functioning

• It is difficult for children on the autism spectrum disorder to read social cues. They may not understand why you smile or frown.

Running

• Because they may not understand the risks involved, children may run away, sometimes into traffic, or throw themselves to the floor when they become upset.

Repetitive Behaviors

• Self stimulating behaviors (stimming) common in autistic children can include rocking, flapping or even rubbing a piece of fabric over and over for comfort.

Tantrums

• Tantrums and self-injury are also possible signs of autism in children.

Famous Ties

• Some famous people who are suspected of having Asperger's syndrome include Albert Einstein and Amelia Earhart.