Per Autism Speaks, “Autism, or autism spectrum disorder (ASD), is a group of conditions that affect how a person interacts, communicates, and behaves.” According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), about 1 in 31 children in the United States are diagnosed with autism by age eight. It is about three times more common in boys than in girls. It is found in all racial, ethnic, and income groups.
Autism is called a spectrum because each child with autism is different. Some may share certain traits, but every child has their own strengths and challenges. As Stephen Shore has said, “If you’ve met one person with autism, you’ve met one person with autism.”
If your child is showing signs of autism, has just been diagnosed, or if you are looking for help, you may feel overwhelmed. That is normal. There are many resources and people who can support you. You are not alone.
What Does Autism Look Like in Young Children?
Autism can look different in each child. There are two main areas to watch for:
1. Social Communication and Interaction
Children may:
Prefer to play alone or have trouble making friends
Have difficulty taking turns in conversations
Have trouble understanding how others feel
Struggle with body language or facial expressions
Avoid eye contact
Have trouble expressing their thoughts or feelings
Feel overwhelmed in social situations
2. Repetitive Behaviors and Routines
Children may:
Have delayed speech or language skills
Line up toys or objects
Repeat movements (like rocking, spinning, or hand flapping)
Like strict routines and get upset with change
Be sensitive to sounds, textures, or lights
Have strong interests in certain topics or activities
Review more signs and symptoms here.
Celebrating Strengths
Children with autism often have many strengths. They may be:
Very observant and caring
Creative thinkers
Good at noticing small details
Honest and loyal
Deeply interested in what they love
Focusing on strengths helps build confidence and a positive sense of self.
The Importance of Early Support
Early support can make a big difference. When children get help early, they can build skills and grow in positive ways. Support may include:
If you are concerned about your child’s development:
Talk to your doctor or nurse about developmental screening (The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends screenings at 9, 18, and 30 months, and autism-specific screening at 18 and 24 months)
Visit Autism Speaks for tools and screening checklists (Be advised that screenings are not a diagnosis)
If your child is ages 0–3, consider reaching out to Bright Beginnings for guidance
Learn whether your child is reaching important developmental milestones via the Sparkler: Play for Parenting app’s Ages & Stages Questionnaire.
These supports are not about “fixing” a child. They help each child grow, face challenges, and be themselves.
Seeking Support from the Community
Connecting with other families, joining local programs, and finding welcoming spaces can help a lot. These supports can make the journey easier for both children and parents. A few we suggest are:
Autism Society of Greater Cleveland
(216) 556-4937
asgc.org
Improving the lives of all affected by autism
Connecting for Kids
(440) 570-5908, para español (440) 907-9130
connectingforkids.org
Education and support for families in Northeast Ohio who have concerns about their child
Milestones Autism Resources
(216) 464-7600
milestones.org
Provides access, education, training and collaboration for the autism community
Monarch Center for Autism
(216) 320-8945
monarchcenterforautism.org
Improves the daily quality of life for children with autism and their families
Wrapping it Up
Autism may feel overwhelming at first, especially for families who are just learning about it. But with understanding, early support, and acceptance, children on the spectrum can thrive in their own beautifully unique ways.
Sources:
American Academy of Pediatrics
Autism Speaks
Center for Disease Control (Autism Spectrum Disorder)
About the Author:
Heather Sakai has been a member of the Bright Beginnings team since early 2022, serving as the Social Media and Family Engagement Coordinator. She holds a Master of Science in Social Service Administration and a Master of Arts in Contemporary Dance from Case Western Reserve University. Heather brings experience in social work and mood disorders research, marketing and social media, as well as dance instruction for children and adults in both the United States and abroad. Passionate about connecting people through social media, Heather strives to make it a safe space to ask questions, be vulnerable, and share successes and struggles. She is also the administrator of Cuyahoga Parents Connect and warmly invites you to join if you are a parent or caregiver of a child from birth to kindergarten, or if you are expecting a child.