Next Steps: What to Do if You Suspect Your Child Has Autism
Something about your child feels different, and you can't quite put your finger on it. Maybe they aren’t interacting with their siblings or get overwhelmed when they’re playing. Wondering if your child has autism or any developmental difference can feel scary. Experiencing uncertainty isn’t a bad thing – it’s human nature.
But here's what parents who've been in your shoes can tell you: getting answers, even hard ones, brings relief. It opens the door to support and that changes everything.
"Those delays can start progressing and improving with therapy," said Wood Country Hospital Pediatric Supervisor and Occupational Therapist Kelly Nowak. "Most parents are so happy to have started therapy because they can see immediate changes in their child and their home life."
Autism Awareness Month is the perfect time to take the first step in helping your child reach their potential so they can enjoy being a kid. This guide will walk you through what to look for and exactly what to do if you suspect your child has autism.
Understanding Early Signs of Autism in Children
This condition presents differently in every child, but if your child exhibits any of the following, it may be time to consider assessment.
Signs that may appear in toddlers (12 months and older):
- Limited or no eye contact
- Not responding to their name
- Fixating on a specific toy or object for extended periods
- Repetitive movements, such as rocking, hand-flapping or spinning
- Not engaging with caregivers or showing interest in others
- Delayed speech or language development
Signs that may appear in older children:
- Difficulty understanding social cues or expressing empathy
- Strong preference for routines and distress when they change
- Sensory sensitivities to sound, texture, light, etc.
- Challenges with back-and-forth conversation
- Repetitive phrases or language patterns
"Autism is frequently diagnosed at 3 to 4, but the signs were often there in toddlerhood," Kelly said.
Trust your instincts. If something feels off, a conversation with your child's doctor can put you at ease.
Taking Action: Steps to Support Your Child
Schedule a Pediatrician Appointment
Your first call should be to your child's primary care provider. Share what you've observed, including specific behaviors, how often they occur and when you first noticed them. It’s okay if you feel like you don’t have all the answers before the appointment. Any insight you can provide is helpful. They'll ask questions and determine what you should do next, which may include a referral for an evaluation with a specialist.
Request a Developmental Screening
A developmental screening allows your child’s doctor to assess how your child is growing, communicating and interacting with the world. It typically includes questionnaires for parents, observations of your child and simple activities or exercises that provide a clearer picture of how your child’s development is progressing. It should be a stress-free process for you and your son or daughter. Think of it more like a structured conversation and a chance to play.
Meet with a Specialist
Depending on the results of the screening, your child may be referred to a specialist like a developmental pediatrician, child psychologist or neurologist. While that may feel intimidating, it’s important to remember that those professionals work with families like yours every day. They'll spend time observing your child, reviewing developmental history and asking questions to learn about their strengths and challenges. You are your child's best advocate, so questions are encouraged. A good specialist will welcome them.
Supporting Your Child Before the Evaluation
If you face a waiting period before your child's evaluation, there are ways you can support your child in the meantime. Keep a journal of their behaviors or delays. Talk to your child's teachers or caregivers as well, since they may see symptoms in group settings that provide additional insight. You can also explore outpatient therapy while you wait.
Kelly Nowak explains, "If a delay is present, you can get help through outpatient therapy, your local school district or Help Me Grow if your child's under 3."
Developmental Therapy Services at Wood County Hospital
Wood County Hospital has skilled therapists and specialized programs to help your child reach developmental milestones at home and school.
For children ages 3 to 5 with an autism diagnosis, the Ready Program is an intensive preschool program designed to prepare your child for kindergarten. It features small class-to-teacher ratios, evidence-based practices, speech and occupational therapy, aquatics, family education and home programming. Wood County Hospital is an Autism Scholarship Provider through the Ohio Department of Education, with ODE and self-pay options available. Call 419-354-3099 for more information.
For children ages 2 to 8, the Applied Behavior Analysis program provides individualized learning to help your child reach developmental milestones, build communication and play skills and prepare for group learning. The program is year-round with part- and full-day options and parent education opportunities. Call 419-354-8945 for more information.