When Did You Realize Your Child Showed Signs of Autism?

Living with autism can be a unique and sometimes challenging journey for both children and their parents. Many parents recognize early signs of autism but often do not have the diagnosis until later. In sharing my personal experience, you might gain insight into the early clues your children might be showing.

The Early Signs in My Daughters

I knew my daughter was different even before she was born. Despite feeling that she was distinct from my other two children, it wasn't until after her birth that the reality of her autism became apparent. My eldest two children were completely neurotypical, but she was different. Her journey with autism began in early infancy.

The Younger Son

My younger son first showed signs around the age of two. Watching

his movements and behaviors reminded me of a particular boy in a movie called 'Son Rise.' I didn't realize at the time that several of his actions were symptoms of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). For example, he did not play with toys in a normal way but carried around objects like straws or wooden spoons, moved paper under a throw rug, and flipped toy cars to spin their wheels. He also experienced seizures for the first couple of years of his life, starting around four months old.

Other Early Indicators and Diagnosis

As my son entered kindergarten, I became increasingly concerned because he did not talk at all. This worry grew as he reached the age of 11 and still did not speak. When he finally started to speak at around 4 years of age, a diagnosis was confirmed the same year, aligning closely with when he first started to communicate verbally.

Looking back, the signs were subtle and perhaps overlooked. One of the earliest indicators was the way he interacted socially. At a very young age, he showed unusual vocabulary, sensory seeking behavior, and a heavy preference for adult company over that of his peers. He also had a fixation on academic topics that bordered on obsession. A more concerning sign came when he began to exhibit aggressive behavior around the age of 6, particularly in relation to what he perceived as seeking justice, and his sensory preferences became increasingly noticeable. He would insist on wearing clothes that were several sizes too small, insist on having heavy stones in his pockets, and choose to wear these items despite the weather. His diet also became severely restricted based on his personal rules and preferences.

The path to diagnosis was a long and winding one. My son first received eligibility for special education services in third grade but did not receive a formal medical diagnosis until he was 14 years old. It was a journey filled with uncertainty, and it was only through persistent observation and conversations with professionals that we gained a clearer understanding of his needs and challenges.

The Personal Experience: My Autistic Family

I have three children, and all of them are autistic. As my son approaches his 16th birthday, and after my daughter was diagnosed at four months old, and my third child at eight months, I have keenly observed the development milestones of all my children. I watch their eyes for tracking delays, and I monitor when they start to mimic noises and faces. With my oldest, the signs were present early on, but the term 'autism' was a taboo subject for a long time. While my husband and I didn't initially disclose it, we discussed it and eventually embarked on a journey of support and understanding.

As a parent, recognizing the signs of autism can feel overwhelming, but knowing that you're not alone can be a tremendous comfort. Sharing experiences with others can help provide a sense of community and support. Remember, early intervention and support can make a profound difference in the lives of children with autism. If you suspect your child might be showing signs of autism, consider speaking with a healthcare professional or a specialist. Every child's journey is unique, and the sooner you can get the support your child needs, the better.