"Speaking slowly, not making eye contact, not responding to the one who called them, and repetitive behaviors are often symptoms that may be sign of autism. Nowadays, the detection of autism has been on the rise and is more commonly found in boys than in girls. Additionally, the risk increases if there is a sibling with autism."
What is Autism?
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a group of conditions resulting from abnormalities in brain development, leading to impairments in language and communication, social interaction, and certain atypical behaviors. Most symptoms become noticeably apparent around the age of 2, with the severity and range of symptoms varying from person to person.
Suspicious signs or symptoms of “Autism” that parents can observe
Language and Communication Developmental Disorders:
1. Rarely makes eye contact.
2. Often does not respond to being called by name.
3. Does not gesture or point to indicate needs.
4. Does not point to show interest in things or follow when others point to something.
5. Does not imitate facial expressions or understand others' emotions.
6. Uses their own language that others cannot understand (gibberish).
7. Repeats words or phrases without understanding the meaning
8. Speaks later than expected for their age.
9. Regression, especially in language and communication development.
Behavioral Disorders:
1. Prefers repetitive activities, such as eating the same food, using the same objects, and has difficulty accepting changes.
2. Repeats specific behaviors, such as tiptoeing, jumping and flapping hands when excited, or looking at and moving fingers close to the face.
3. Obsess on particular object intensely
4. Plays with toys in a repetitive way, focusing on specific parts, such as watching wheels spin.
5. Does not engage in pretend play based on age.
6. Overreacts or underreacts to certain stimuli, such as being extremely afraid of the sound of a hairdryer or not responding to pain.
7. Shows little interest in the environment and people around them, prefers to be alone, and does not know how to play with others.
Why Early Detection and Treatment of Autism Matters?
Earlier developmental stimulation, occupational therapy, behavioral therapy, and speech therapy can help children achieve developmental milestones that are close to their typical age. This is especially true when treatment begins before the age of 3, leading to better outcomes in all areas of development and reducing the symptoms of autism.

Therefore, if parents suspect that their child may be at risk for or exhibit signs of autism, it is important to consult with a pediatrician specializing in child development or behavior for further evaluation and appropriate treatment.
Dr.Panchalee Jongpaiboonpatana
Pediatrician specializing in development and behavior at Phyathai 2 Hospital