What Are the Signs of Mild Autism?

By Stacy Taylor

Autism Spectrum Traits

The range of signs, both mild and severe, that signal an autism spectrum disorder typically fall into some or all of the three categories below.

• Problems with social interaction
• Impaired nonverbal and verbal communication and language
• Displays repetitious and obsessive behavior

If your child or loved one displays any of the following characteristic warning signs associated with autism spectrum disorder, speak with your physician about getting a referral to a developmental specialist.

Social Interaction

Impaired social skills are often the first indication that something might be wrong. While it's true that many children are independent or shy and require less social interaction than other kids, there are still certain characteristics that may be signs of mild autism. Look at the checklist below to see if your child exhibits any of these autism symptoms.

• Difficulties maintaining prolonged eye contact
• Unresponsive when called by name
• Prefers solitary play and activities
• Strongly resists hugging, cuddling, or being held
• Uninterested in sharing or making friends, and seems to lack understanding of other people's feelings

Communication and Language

 Look over the list below to see if your child displays signs of common autism-related language and communication problems.

• Has not babbled or gestured by 12 months, or spoken at all by 16 months
• Has difficulty comprehending language and engaging in conversations
• Exhibits repetitive speech characteristics or patterns
• Makes unusual or inappropriate gestures and facial expressions
• Impaired ability and desire to express emotions, desires, and needs

Repetition and Obsessive Behavior

In children with signs of mild autism instead of profound autism, it's sometimes difficult for parents to decide if their child is showing obsessive behavior patterns. Fortunately, repetitive behaviors are easier to recognize and often go hand in hand with obsessive traits. Things parents and caregivers should watch out for are listed below.

• Frequently engages in self-stimulating or repetitive movements like rocking, head-banging, hand flapping, and twirling objects
• Tendency to focus on and repeat specific phrases from books, television programs, and movies
• Displays unusual, obsessive interest in one toy or activity to the point of excluding or rejecting all other play choices

Other Warning Signs

Like most disorders, many signs of autism defy precise categorization. Pay attention to your child and take note if she develops any unusual behavior or interest patterns, or if she seems to lose any of the developmental milestones she has already surpassed. A few other mild autism signs to look for include impaired motor skills, extreme mood swings and aggression, and sudden lack of interest in what was once a cherished topic or activity.

Practice Serenity

If you believe your child may have mild autism, try to resist the urge to make drastic changes in your family's daily routines. The first step is to speak with your family physician and arrange a screening and diagnostic interview for your child. While you wait for the completion of this important process, maintain a calm and reassuring demeanor, which will help your entire family feel safe and secure.