Mercy Autism Center
Exceptional Lives1702 North Burnside Avenue, Suite B & C
Gonzales, LA 70737
(225) 257-9574
sites.google.com
12544 Jefferson Highway
Baton Rouge, LA 70816
(225) 257-9574
sites.google.com
9306 Perkins Road
Baton Rouge, LA 70810
(225) 257-9574
sites.google.com
From the Sponsor
Signs of autism can vary depending on the child’s age, but some common indicators to look out for include:
Social Communication Challenges:
– Delayed speech or language skills.
– Limited eye contact or not responding to their name by 12 months.
– Difficulty understanding non-verbal cues like facial expressions or gestures.
– Repetitive speech patterns like repeating the same phrase or echoing what others say.
– Difficulty engaging in back-and-forth conversations or play.
Behavioral Differences:
– Repetitive movements (hand-flapping, rocking) or behaviors (lining up toys, focusing on parts of objects).
– Strong resistance to changes in routines or environments.
– Intense focus on specific interests, sometimes to the exclusion of other activities.
– Sensory sensitivities, such as being overly sensitive to loud noises, textures, or lights.
Social Interaction Differences:
– Difficulty in forming friendships or understanding social rules.
– Preferring to play alone or struggling with imaginative play.
Emotional Regulation:
– Meltdowns or frustration over small changes or unexpected events.
– Difficulty with emotional expression or recognizing emotions in others.
It’s important to remember that autism is a spectrum, and children may exhibit these signs in different combinations and degrees. If you have concerns, it’s a good idea to consult a developmental specialist or your pediatrician for an evaluation. Early intervention can make a significant difference.
What do I do If I suspect my child has Autism?
- Raise concerns with your Pediatrician
- Act early!
- Ask your pediatrician to complete a screen. Your pediatrician will often refer you child to a specialist for an evaluation (e.g. Developmental pediatrician, clinical psychologist, child psychologist, pediatric neurologist).
- A child can be diagnosed starting at 24 months of age.
- Most specialist have long waitlist, so it is highly encouraged to call and get an appointment as soon as possible, some waitlists can be weeks or months long.
- Waiting for an Autism Evaluation
- Get on Waitlists (even if you don’t have diagnosis yet).
- Contact your local early intervention programs as soon as possible and get on their waitlists
- Process Emotions and Seek Support
- Educate Yourself about Autism
- Build a Supportive Network
- Join Autism Support Groups
- b. Connect with other Parents