Evidence 

Effect of Pre-emptive Intervention on Developmental Outcomes Among Infants Showing Early Signs of Autism. A Randomized Clinical Trial of Outcomes to Diagnosis 

Whitehouse AJO, Varcin KJ, Pillar S, et al. 

Abstract: Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by impairments in social interaction and communication as well as a repetitive and/or restricted range of behaviors and interests.1 Autism spectrum disorder is emergent in early development but is not typically diagnosed until age 3 years,2 and current clinical guidelines3,4 highlight diagnosis as a catalyst in the clinical pathway to commence therapeutic intervention. However, interventions beginning during the first 2 years of life, when the first signs of atypical development are observed and the brain is rapidly developing, may lead to an even greater impact on developmental outcomes in later childhood.5,6 

Education 

What is autism? 

Autism, also called autism spectrum disorder (ASD), is a developmental condition. It affects how a child communicates, learns, plays and interacts with other people. It can also affect how they respond to sounds, lights, touch and other sensory experiences. 

Every autistic child is different. Some children need more support than others. Every child has their own strengths, interests, personality and way of learning. 

Autism is lifelong. While a person's support needs may change over time, autistic people remain autistic throughout their lives. 

What causes autism? 

The exact cause of autism is not known. Researchers believe it is caused by a mix of genetic and environmental factors. Autism is not caused by anything a parent did or did not do. 

Some children have a higher chance of being autistic. This includes children who: 

• Have a brother or sister with autism. 

• Were born premature. 

• Had a low birth weight. 

• Have certain genetic conditions. 

• Were born to older parents. 

These factors do not mean a child will have autism. Many children with these risk factors do not develop autism. 

Signs of autism in toddlers 

Many children are diagnosed with autism during the toddler years. This is because differences in communication, play and social skills become easier to see. 

Children born premature or sick may also reach milestones later than other children. Some developmental differences linked to being born early or having a difficult start to life can look similar to early signs of autism. This does not always mean a child has autism, but it is important to talk to your healthcare team if you have any concerns. 

Your toddler may: 

• Use few words, develop language differently or communicate in ways that differ from other children. 

• Not always respond to their name. 

• Make little eye contact. 

• Use few gestures, such as pointing or waving. 

• Prefer to play alone or interact with others in different ways. 

• Repeat the same actions, sounds or movements. 

• Become upset when routines change. 

• Seek out or avoid certain sensory experiences, such as sounds, lights, touch, movement or different textures. 

• Show a strong interest in one toy or activity. 

• Have little interest in pretend play. 

Many toddlers show some of these behaviours. Having one or two signs does not mean your child has autism. 

Speak with your GP, child and family health nurse, paediatrician or another healthcare professional if your toddler: 

• Stops using words or loses skills they already had. 

• Is not using words or short phrases as expected for their age. 

• Rarely responds to their name. 

• Does not point, wave or use other gestures to communicate. 

• Shows little interest in people or playing with others. 

• Has behaviours that worry you or affect everyday life. 

If you are worried, trust your instincts. Talking with your healthcare team early can help you better understand your child's development and decide whether further assessment or support is needed. 

Empowerment 

Every toddler develops at their own pace. An autism diagnosis does not change who your child is. Your child is still the same loved and unique person. 

Autistic children have many different strengths. Every child is unique and will have their own interests, abilities, challenges and support needs. Some autistic children may be creative, honest, curious, have a strong memory, notice small details, show persistence, or enjoy learning deeply about topics they love. 

Getting the right support early can help your toddler develop new skills, take part in everyday life and thrive in ways that are meaningful for them and your family. If you have concerns, asking for help is a positive step. 

Support and therapies 

If your child is diagnosed with autism, support will be based on their individual needs. This may include: 

• Speech pathology. 

• Occupational therapy. 

• Physiotherapy. 

• Psychology or behaviour support. 

• Early childhood education support. 

• Parent education and coaching. 

Early support can help children develop communication, play, learning and everyday skills while building on their strengths, interests and the things that matter most to them. 

Special thanks for Autism Association of Australia for content sharing and providing support for families. 

Useful Links 

Autism Association of Australia 

https://www.autismaustralia.org.au 

Raising Children 

https://raisingchildren.net.au/autism/learning-about-autism/assessment-diagnosis/early-signs-of-asd 

The Kids Research Institute 

https://www.thekids.org.au/our-research/research-topics/autism/ 

Autism CRC 

https://www.autismcrc.com.au/best-practice/strengths-and-supports 

Miracle Babies Foundation 

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) - Miracle Babies

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