Down syndrome in their kids, is one sensitive topic that parents do not want to discuss openly. This problem is on rise and unfortunately there are not many practitioners who can identify early signs of the disorder and suggest an engaging view forward.
Among Autistic cases the normal development of a child’s mental growth takes a deviation in early stages of life. Sometimes children are born with some disabilities, or their development is delayed due to many genetic and emotional factors. Autism is one of the major diseases that rise from the lack of normal developments. However, being a mental illness, an autistic childmany a time is kept aloof, out of public by parents or family as they think the child may bring embarrassment to them.
What is Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)?
While talking about Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Dr Himani Narula Khanna Developmental Behavioral Pediatrician Director and Co-Founder Continua Kids says, “It is a developmental disability where you may find the child having difficulty in expressing their emotions, difficulty in communicating in words as well as by signs language with inappropriate social behavior. A child with autism spectrum disorder will have repetitive actions and behaviors, while their learning, thinking and problem-solving abilities can range from gifted to severely challenge.”
Look for these concerns
Autism can be identified at an early stage, thus making it easy for their treatment. If you see any of the following signs in your child, then don’t hesitate in taking him to your nearest pediatricians:
1. Your child does not point at objects to show interest, such as not pointing at an airplane flying over.
2. He/she does not look at objects when other person points at them.
3. Has troubles relating to others or has no interest in other people at all.
4. Does not look into your eyes while interacting with you.
5. Prefers living in his own world.
6. Finds it difficult to understand other people’s feelings or taking about their own feelings.
7. Hates being cuddled or held, and will cuddle only when they want to.
8. Remains unaware when people talk to them, but responds to other sounds.
9. Repeats or echo words or phrases said to them, or repeat words or phrases in place of normal language.
Early diagnosis to the rescue
Autism may be seen as a devastating disease for some of the parents and the child, but the early diagnosis can do wonders. Dr Himani tells us, “There is a lack of awareness among people about their child’s development. An early diagnosis of a child’s behavior can effectively help a child who is suffering from development issues.”
About 1 in 68 children has been identified with autism spectrum disorder (ASD).
This article was first published in the Print version of SUBURB March 2019 issue.
