a handbook for parents of children with autism spectrum disorders

ANSWERS TO YOUR QUESTIONSI think my infant or toddler may have developmental delays. How do Iknow?The following red flags may indicate that your child is at risk fordevelopmental problems and is in need of a developmental evaluation. A childexhibiting any of these “red flags” should be screened to ensure that he orshe is on the right developmental path.Social and Communication Red FlagsIf your baby or toddler is showing any of the following signs, ask yourpediatrician or family practitioner for an immediate evaluation:As early asinfancy, a babycan begin to showthe three hallmarkfeatures of Autism:communicationchallenges,impaired socialinteractions, andrepetitive behavior.No big smiles or other warm, joyful expressions by six months orthereafter.No back-and-forth sharing of sounds, smiles, or other facial expressionsby nine months or thereafter.No babbling by 12 months.No back-and-forth gestures, such as pointing, showing, reaching, orwaving by 12 months.No words by 16 months.No two-word meaningful phrases (without imitating or repeating) by24 months.Any loss of speech, babbling, or social skills at any age.The primary care physician or pediatrician can provide a developmentalscreening in order to determine whether the child has a developmental delay.See Appendices A-C for the full diagnostic criteria for Autism and relateddisorders.The Academy of Pediatrics recommends a developmental screening duringeach visit. There is a specific screen designed to detect the early signs ofAutism.- Page 2 -