Some may show signs of problems at birth. Other children have normal or near-normal development until about 18 to 36 months. Then, they suddenly lose acquired language and social skills and begin to exhibit abnormal behavior patterns. Autistic children have problems communicating and relating to people in the world around them. They may show little eye contact or emotional attachment to family members or peers.
Some children also display stereotypic motor movements, such as hand flapping or rocking.
Diagnosing and Managing Autism Children with autism are frequently not diagnosed with the condition until several years have passed from the start of symptoms. Identifying children with problems at an early age enables families to obtain support, intensive treatment and early education. Research shows intensive early intervention before entering school improves the outcomes for autistic children. Many children also have medical or behavioral problems that can sometimes be treated with medications. The information on this factsheet is not meant to substitute for a consultation with your physician or with another healthcare professional.