Recognizing the Early Signs of Autism: When to Seek Additional Support

As parents, we eagerly watch our children grow and reach new milestones. But what happens when certain milestones seem delayed, or behaviours emerge that raise questions? Early identification of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) can open the door to crucial support and services that make a real difference in your child’s development. Knowing what to look for and when to seek help can be life-changing — and The Nest Family Behaviour Support Services is here to guide families through this journey.

Early Signs of Autism to Look For

Every child is unique, but there are some common signs of autism that may appear in early childhood. If you notice any of the following behaviours, it could be beneficial to seek further assessment:

1. Social Differences:

   • Limited eye contact or lack of response to their name.

   • Difficulty engaging in social play or preferring to play alone.

   • Limited interest in others, such as not pointing to show objects or share enjoyment.

2. Communication Challenges:

   • Delays in speech development or absence of speech.

   • Unusual speech patterns, such as echolalia (repeating words or phrases) or using scripts from TV shows.

   • Difficulty understanding or using gestures, like waving or nodding.

3. Repetitive Behaviours and Routines:

   • Engaging in repetitive movements (e.g., hand-flapping, rocking, spinning objects).

   • Intense interest in specific topics or objects.

   • Resistance to changes in routine and extreme distress when routines are disrupted.

4. Sensory Sensitivities:

   • Over- or under-reacting to sensory stimuli, like loud noises, bright lights, or certain textures.

   • Unusual reactions to pain or temperature.

When to Seek Additional Support

If you notice any of these signs, especially if they persist over time, it may be worth discussing your concerns with a healthcare professional. In Ontario, you can start by consulting your child’s doctor or paediatrician, who can provide guidance and refer you for further assessment if needed.

How The Nest Family Behaviour Support Services Can Help

At The Nest, we understand that recognizing these signs can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to navigate this process alone. Our experienced team offers:

• Guidance in Identifying Signs: We help parents understand behaviours that might indicate autism and provide tools to track developmental milestones.

• Support with Referrals: We assist families in accessing assessments through public or private pathways.

• Personalized Behaviour Support Plans: Once a diagnosis is received, we create individualized support plans to help your child develop skills and thrive.

• Ongoing Family Support: From understanding assessment results to navigating funding options like the Ontario Autism Program, we’re with you every step of the way.

Early intervention can make a significant difference in a child’s life, helping them build communication, social, and daily living skills. If you have any concerns about your child’s development, don’t wait. Reach out to The Nest Family Behaviour Support Services today, and let us support your family on this journey toward understanding, growth, and empowerment.

Your child’s future is bright, and we’re here to help every step of the way.