As a parent, you may be attuned to every small milestone your baby reaches—their first smile, the first time they roll over, and their first words. But what happens when you notice that your child isn’t reaching these milestones as expected? Understanding the early signs of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in infants and knowing when to seek professional help can be a crucial part of supporting your child’s development. We will discuss signs to watch for, the importance of early intervention, and how to navigate through next steps if you suspect your child may have autism. We will offer support options available to you through Willow and Sage Counselling, located in Surrey and Burnaby, as well as online.

What are the Early Signs of Autism in Infants I might Notice?

ASD is a complex neurodevelopmental condition that can affect a child’s social interactions, communication skills, and behaviour. While every child develops at their own pace, there are certain signs that might indicate that your infant could be on the autism spectrum. These signs can vary, but some common indicators include:

• Limited eye contact: Infants with autism may not make eye contact as frequently as expected. Or, they may avoid it altogether.
• Lack of response to their name: By six months, most babies will start to recognize their name and respond when called. A lack of response could be a sign to investigate further.
• Delayed or absent babbling: By the age of six to nine months, most infants will start babbling or making repetitive sounds. If your baby is not babbling or makes simple sounds (ma, ba, oo), it might be worth exploring further.
• Limited gestures or expressions: Infants typically start using gestures like pointing, waving, or reaching for objects by their first birthday. A lack of these gestures could be an early sign of autism. Read more about the 16 gestures by 16 months you should look out for.
• Repetitive movements: Some infants may engage in repetitive movements. For example, rocking back and forth, flapping their hands, or spinning objects.

Early Intervention: When Should I be Concerned?

It is natural to worry about your child’s development, but it’s also important to remember that every child is unique. Some children develop certain skills earlier or later than others, and that’s perfectly normal. However, if you notice multiple signs of autism, you have family members with an autism diagnosis, or if your child seems to be falling behind on several developmental milestones, it might be time to consider seeking professional advice.

Here are a few scenarios where it might be a good idea to consult with a family doctor, pediatrician, psychologist, counsellor, or other therapist:

• Your child is not reaching key milestones: If your child is not meeting milestones, consider discussing this with a healthcare provider. For example, smiling, babbling, or responding to their name.
• You notice regression: If your child seems to be losing skills they previously had, this could be a sign of autism. For example, no longer making eye contact or babbling, or losing interest in social interactions.
• Concerns about sensory processing: Infants with autism may have unusual responses to sensory input. For example, being overly sensitive to lights, sounds, or textures, or not reacting to pain or cold in a way you’d expect.

Navigating Next Steps: What Should I do if I Suspect my Child has Autism?

If you have concerns about your child’s development, the first step is to speak with your family doctor. They can assess your child’s progress and, if necessary, provide a referral to a pediatrician for further evaluation. Early screening is essential because early intervention can make a significant difference in a child’s developmental outcomes.

Here are some steps to consider if you suspect your child may have autism:

• Ask for a referral to a pediatrician: If you are concerned about your child’s development, your family doctor can refer you to a pediatrician who specializes in child development.
• Schedule a developmental screening: You can reach out to Willow and Sage Counselling for a free developmental screening for children aged 6-24 months. This screening can help assess your child’s progress in areas like communication, social skills, and cognitive development.
• Explore early intervention programs: In BC, private early intervention programs are available. They support children that are showing signs of developmental delays. Programs may include speech therapy (SLP), occupational therapy (OT), physiotherapy (PT), applied behaviour analysis (ABA), the Early Start Denver Model (ESDM), or JASPER program.  Inquire further for recommendations to pick the right program for your family.

How can I Support my Child’s Development at Home?

Supporting your child’s development at home is crucial, especially if you suspect they may have autism or a development delay. Here are some ways you can help:

• Engage in play: Play is a powerful tool for learning. Engage your child in activities that promote social interaction, communication, and sensory exploration. This can include playing with toys that make noise, exploring different textures, or playing simple social games like peek-a-boo.
• Encourage communication: Even if your child is not using words, encourage any form of communication they are comfortable with. For example, gestures, sounds, or facial expressions.
• Create a sensory-friendly environment: Pay attention to your child’s sensory needs and adjust their environment accordingly. This might mean dimming the lights, reducing noise, or providing sensory toys that they enjoy.
• Incorporate reading: Reading books that focus on developmental strategies can be incredibly beneficial. Look for resources from the Early Start Denver Model (ESDM) or other developmental approaches that emphasize building sensory social routines, encouraging communication, and integrating play into daily interactions.
• Be patient and consistent: Children with autism often thrive on routine and predictability. Be patient as your child learns new skills and try to maintain a consistent daily routine.

What Resources are Available for Families in British Columbia?

Navigating an autism diagnosis can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone. In BC, there are numerous resources available to support families, including:

• BC Autism Assessment Network (BCAAN): This network provides diagnostic assessments for children suspected of having autism;
• Early intervention programs: Infant Development Program (IDP) and Supported Child Development (SCD) programs offer support for children with developmental delays; and,
• Speech-language pathologists (SLPs) and occupational therapists (OTs): These professionals can provide therapy to help with communication and sensory processing challenges.

What if I am Struggling with the Emotional Impact of a Diagnosis?

Receiving a diagnosis of autism can be a challenging and emotional experience for parents. It’s important to acknowledge your feelings and seek support if you’re struggling. You might be dealing with feelings of grief, worry about the future, or stress from managing your child’s needs. At Willow & Sage Counselling, we understand the emotional toll that perusing and receiving an autism diagnosis can take on families. We have the unique experience as board-certified behaviour analyst (BCBA) and registered clinical counsellors (RCC) to provide support and guidance. Whether you’re looking for help navigating the healthcare system, coping with the emotional impact, or developing strategies to support your child, we’re here to help.

Next Steps

If you are concerned about your child’s development or suspect they may be on the autism spectrum, don’t hesitate to seek help. Early intervention can make a significant difference in your child’s life, and there are many resources available to support you.

At Willow and Sage Counselling, we offer comprehensive services to support families navigating autism. Whether you are located in Surrey or Burnaby, or prefer virtual services, we are here to help you and your child thrive. Contact us today to schedule a developmental screening or counselling appointment and take the first step towards getting the support you have been looking for.