Autism: From Awareness to Acceptance ♾️

As parents, we all want our children to be happy, healthy, and feel connected. Receiving a diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder may bring a unique set of challenges and expectations, but it can also open up a new life path that is just as rewarding and full of joy.

For many parents, the journey toward an autism diagnosis doesn’t start in a doctor’s office; it starts at home, during those quiet moments when you notice your child interacting with the world a little differently than their peers. Whether it’s a delay in speech or a unique way of playing, these observations are the first step in advocating for your child’s needs.

What is Autism?

By definition, autism is a complex neurodevelopmental condition. It’s important to understand that autism, also known as Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), is exactly that: a spectrum.

Being on the spectrum means that while two children may share a diagnosis, their strengths, challenges, and support needs can look entirely different. Some children may be highly verbal and struggle only with subtle social nuances, while others may be non-verbal and benefit from early intervention programs to help them thrive as they grow.

There is no one cause of autism in children or adults, but rather a variety of genetic and environmental factors that are continuously being studied.

Recognizing the Early Signs of Autism

While autism is usually diagnosed around age two or three, some signs can emerge as early as 6 to 12 months. Early intervention is one of the most effective tools for helping a child develop vital communication and social skills, so keeping an eye on developmental milestones is key.

Common early signs of autism include:

Limited Social Smiling: Not responding to a parent’s smile or joyful expressions by 6 months.
Lack of Eye Contact: Avoiding eye contact or having inconsistent eye contact during feeding or play.
No Response to Name: Not turning when their name is called by 9 to 12 months.
Delayed Gestures: Not pointing at objects of interest, waving “bye-bye,” or reaching out to be picked up by 12 months.
Repetitive Behaviors: Lining up toys in a specific order, flapping hands, or rocking the body.
Sensory Sensitivities: Showing extreme distress toward certain sounds, textures, or lights.
Regression: 25% of children on the autism spectrum may show a regression in developmental milestones they previously achieved.

The presence of one of the above signs does not automatically mean a child has autism, and may be a feature of a different diagnosis. Discussing this with your child’s pediatrician can help with this determination.

Early Screening for Autism at Raleigh Pediatrics

At Raleigh Pediatrics, we routinely screen for autism spectrum disorder at 18- and 24-month well-child checkups. Every child is different, however, and if you have newfound concerns, don’t wait for your next well visit to schedule a developmental screening. Early intervention programs are critical for many children on the autism spectrum.

During these visits, our pediatricians typically use standardized tools like the M-CHAT-R/F (Modified Checklist for Autism in Toddlers, Revised with Follow-Up). This is a series of questions about your child’s behavior that helps determine if a more formal evaluation is needed. Be prepared to share specific examples of what you’ve observed at home; keeping a small journal or taking short videos of behaviors can be incredibly helpful for your physician.

Getting an Autism Diagnosis in Raleigh, NC

If a screening comes back in the score range suggesting signs of autism, your pediatrician will refer you to receive a formal diagnostic evaluation.

A formal evaluation often involves:

Clinical Observation: Experts watch how your child plays and interacts with others.
Parental Interviews: Detailed questions about your child’s developmental history.
Standardized Testing: Tools like the ADOS-2 (Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule) are used to assess social communication and repetitive behaviors.

Receiving a diagnosis can feel overwhelming, but parents might find it provides a welcome roadmap that finally allows them access to the support their child needs.

Supporting Your Child at Home, and in Life

While professional therapy is vital, the most consistent support happens from a parent. You are your child’s biggest advocate, and their safest space. Kids in general do best when they are loved, valued, and given what they need – and children with autism are no different.

Here is how you can keep working to support your child while waiting on a formal autism evaluation, as outlined by the AAP:

Explore programs in NC that support child development, like TEACCH.
Outpatient therapies: We might refer you to a speech therapist or occupational therapist.
Get a hearing screening: We can provide hearing screenings here in our offices.
Keep engaging with your child, have them play with other kids, and observe their interests.
Learn more about autism and development from trusted sources.

Getting support for yourself can also be important. Connecting with other parents of children on the autism spectrum can help you feel a sense of community.

Frequently Asked Questions About Autism

Does a “wait and see” approach work with autism?

Expert consensus generally advises against “waiting and seeing.” Because the brain is so adaptable in early childhood, early intervention (starting before age 3) can significantly improve long-term outcomes.

Can a child “outgrow” autism?

Autism is a lifelong neurological difference. However, with the right support and therapies, children can learn skills that allow them to navigate the world successfully, gain independence, and lead fulfilling lives.

How do I talk to my family about the diagnosis?

Focus on your child’s strengths first. Share specific ways family members can help, such as maintaining a calm environment or using specific communication styles. This will help your whole family feel more connected.

Autism: From Awareness to Acceptance

Recognizing the initial signs of neurodivergence is the first step in a beautiful journey of advocacy. Raleigh Pediatrics invites you to join us in fostering a world where every neurodivergent individual is valued for exactly who they are.

Schedule an appointment today with one of our board-certified pediatricians who would be happy to discuss your child’s needs.