The characteristic behaviors of autism spectrum disorders may not be apparent in infancy (between 18 and 24 months), but usually become obvious during early childhood (24 months to 6 years of age). As part of a well-baby/well-child visit, a child's doctor should do a developmental screening, asking specific questions about a baby's progress.

The National Institute of Child Health and Human Development lists these five behaviors that signal further evaluation is warranted: Does not babble or coo by 12 months; does not gesture (point, wave, grasp) by 12 months; does not say single words by 16 months; does not say two-word phrases by 24 months; has loss of any language or social skill at any age.

Having any of these five "red flags" does not mean a child has autism, but because the characteristics of the disorder vary, a child should have further evaluations by a multidisciplinary team that may include a neurologist, psychologist, pediatrician, speech/language therapist, early childhood specialist or other professionals knowledgeable about the disorder.

Several screening instruments have been developed that are now used in diagnosing autism. The Childhood Autism Rating Scale professionals evaluate a child's relationship to people, body use, adaptation to change, listening response and verbal communication. The Checklist for Autism in Toddlers is used to screen for autism at 18 months of age. The Autism Screening Questionnaire has a screening scale that has been used with kids four and older to help evaluate communication skills and social functioning. The Screening Test for Autism in Two-Year-Olds uses direct observations to study behavioral features that indicate autism.
 

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Discovering that a child has autism can be an overwhelming experience. For some, the diagnosis may come as a complete surprise; others may have suspected autism and tried for months to get an accurate diagnosis. A generation ago, professionals were less educated about the disorder, and specific services and supports were largely nonexistent.

Today, the picture is brighter. With appropriate services, training and information, children with autism can grow and learn.

While there is no cure for autism, there are treatment and education approaches that may reduce some of the challenges associated with the disability. Intervention may lessen disruptive behaviors, and education can teach self-help skills that allow for greater independence. Just as there is no one symptom or behavior that identifies autistic children, there is no single treatment. Treatment must be tailored to the child's individual behaviors and needs.

It is important to gather information before making decisions concerning the child's treatment. There are numerous accounts from parents about successes and failures mentioning treatment approaches. You will also discover that professionals differ in their theories of what they feel is the most successful treatment for autism.

To learn more about autism and treatments, New Frontiers: A Parent's Guide to Treatments for Autism Spectrum Disorders Including ADD/ADHD is an upcoming autism conference scheduled for May 10 at the Mansfield Education Center. For more information, call 256-0558 or e-mail lindaloff@msn.com.