Autism spectrum disorder (ASD)

Is your child experiencing social communication challenges and restricted/repetitive behaviors? If so, we are here to help your child and your family understand why they may exhibit these behaviors. If you notice any of these behaviors listed below in your child it is important to get a comprehensive evaluation from our nurse practitioner of your child’s development in order to receive a medical diagnosis. Getting a diagnosis is the first step to ensuring your child gets the help and services they need to be successful and reach their full potential as they continue to develop.

Challenges with social communication and interactions with others

  • Avoids or does not maintain eye contact

  • Does not respond to name by 9 months

  • Does not show facial expressions like happy, sad, angry, and surprised by 9 months

  • Does not play simple interactive games like pat-a-cake by 12 months

  • Uses little or no gestures by 12 months

  • Does not share interests with others by 15 months (i.e., showing you an object that they like)

  • Does not notice when others are hurt or upset by 24 months

  • Does not notice or join other children in play by 36 months

  • Does not pretend to be something else, like a teacher or superhero, during play by 48 months

  • Does not sing, dance, or act for you by 60 months

Restricted and Repetitive Behaviors

  • Lines up toys or other objects and gets upset when the order is changed

  • Is focused on parts of objects (for example, wheels)

  • Gets upset by minor changes

  • Must follow certain routines

  • Has unusual reactions to the way things sound, smell, taste, look or feel

  • Plays with toys the same way every time

  • Repeats words or phrases over and over (called echolalia)

  • Highly focused interests in certain objects/toys/activities

  • Flaps hands, rocks body, or spins self in circles

Other characteristics that May indicate a Need For an Evaluation for Autism 

  • Delayed language skills

  • Delayed movement skills

  • Delayed cognitive or learning skills

  • Hyperactive, impulsive, and/or inattentive behavior

  • Epilepsy or seizure disorder

  • Unusual eating and sleeping habits

  • Gastrointestinal issues (i.e., constipation)

  • Unusual mood or emotional reactions

  • Anxiety, stress, or excessive worry

  • Lack of fear or more fear than expected