Aptos, CA psychologist: Suspect autism? Because? Depends on age!
Why do you suspect autism? Depends on the age of the child/ person as to what to look for as possible signs of autism.
Infant to age 1+: no “social” smile that typically occurs about age 6 weeks to 12 weeks of age. Failure to follow parent’s gaze. Does not turn head when name is called. Not able to engage in joint attention tasks with parent. Seems like the child might be deaf as not responsive to parent’s voice. Repetitive behaviors that go on and on without much point. Playing very inappropriately with toys. Very limited interests.
Age 3: child does not put 2 words together. Limited one word vocabulary. Child does not seek parent for comfort. Child prefers objects to people. Ignores parent and does not come when called by parent. Failure do draw; child only scribbles. May count and knows colors and alphabet but the 3 year old is not interested in other children. Many seem “angelic” — very sweet expression and little emotion on their face.
written by Dr. Cameron Jackson, licensed psychoologist DrCameronJackson@gmail.com 831 688-6002
