There's a saying among those who become familiar with Autism.
"If you've met one kid with Autism, you've met one kid with Autism"
There are certainly clear cases... but the trouble is identifying the non-traditional and less severe cases. These methods are great, but with early intervention being so critical it's doesn't help with diagnosing younger children (from what I read... seems patient would need more cognitive ability).
As a parent who has recently run the gauntlet of diagnosis the most frustrating part of the lack of awareness for younger children. Based on all my reading early intervention can have a tremendous impact of future outcome (before 3y/o is really the sweet spot).
There's so much stigma on classifying young children early that parents are often reluctant to seek out diagnosis and treatment. My daughter was diagnosed at 15 months and has since made amazing strides.
If there was one thing I wish I could pass on to every parent it's that there is absolutely no harm or shame in doing diligence if you feel something isn't right. Therapies are play based and are great for even nuerotypical kids. If you suspect a delay or risk... talk to a specialist ASAP.
"If you've met one kid with Autism, you've met one kid with Autism"
There are certainly clear cases... but the trouble is identifying the non-traditional and less severe cases. These methods are great, but with early intervention being so critical it's doesn't help with diagnosing younger children (from what I read... seems patient would need more cognitive ability).
As a parent who has recently run the gauntlet of diagnosis the most frustrating part of the lack of awareness for younger children. Based on all my reading early intervention can have a tremendous impact of future outcome (before 3y/o is really the sweet spot).
There's so much stigma on classifying young children early that parents are often reluctant to seek out diagnosis and treatment. My daughter was diagnosed at 15 months and has since made amazing strides.
If there was one thing I wish I could pass on to every parent it's that there is absolutely no harm or shame in doing diligence if you feel something isn't right. Therapies are play based and are great for even nuerotypical kids. If you suspect a delay or risk... talk to a specialist ASAP.