What are some of the common signs and traits of ASD in kids?

Clients often ask me, "How can I be sure my child is or is not on the autism spectrum?" So I thought I would write about the top key traits as I see them of ASD in kids.

It is worth noting that some of these traits overlap with other conditions and not all kids with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) will display all these signs. Similarly, if you suspect that your child may be on the spectrum or indeed on the ADHD (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder) or ADD (attention deficit disorder) then it is important that you consult with a therapist who is a specialist in this field or with a psychiatrist or psychologist for further evaluation and support.

It is also important to understand that it is only a psychologist or a psychiatrist who will be able to assess and diagnose - a counsellor cannot. A counsellor can only support and help but cannot diagnose, although they can recommend a child goes for evaluation if they suspect they might be exhibiting the traits. 

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects social communication and behaviour. Difficulty with social interaction is a common characteristic of ASD.

Kids especially on the autism spectrum may experience challenges with social interactions in several ways, such as:

1. Difficulty initiating or maintaining conversations.
2. Difficulty understanding and interpreting social cues, gestures, and body language.
3. Difficulty making and maintaining eye contact.
4. Difficulty understanding humour or sarcasm.
5. Difficulty with reciprocity in relationships.
6. Difficulty with making friends or maintaining friendships.

These difficulties in social interaction can make it hard for autistic people to build relationships and to interact with others in everyday situations. However, with appropriate support, people on the autism spectrum can develop social skills and build rewarding relationships.

Kids may also struggle as a result of delayed development of speech or language. This may also present as difficulty with nonverbal communication, such as making eye contact or reading body language. 

Children may also exhibit repetitive behaviours or routines. This can present as 'stimming' or self-stimulatory behaviour which is a term used to describe repetitive body movements or behaviours that the individual will engage in to provide sensory input to themselves. It is a form of self-soothing essentially. They help the individual regulate their emotions. But they can be distracting for others. These can present as hand flapping, rocking back and forth, spinning, pacing, repeating certain phrases over and over, etc. 

Children can also display an intense focus or interest in certain subjects or objects. I recall a child (a client of mine) who was nine years old but who knew everything there was to know about washing machines. For this child, they were fascinated by washing machines and so they took a deep interest in this topic. 

Individuals on the ASD spectrum will have difficulty with empathy or understanding others’ emotions. Thus they will not be able to show love and affection toward themselves or others in their family. This can be heartbreaking for parents. 

Kids can also have sensory sensitivities or aversions, such as reacting strongly to certain sounds or textures. Often times parents will say that their child will not wear their coat or socks or will want to cut labels off their clothes. This can be extremely confusing for parents if they are not aware their child is on the spectrum.

Sometimes parents think their child is just being difficult, but the truth is the very opposite. Kids often struggle with food and both parents and teacher might label the child as a fussy eater when in fact they just do not like certain textures or tastes. 

If you are struggling with any of these issues or you suspect your child may be on the spectrum, reach out for help because it will be hugely beneficial for both you and your child. I help lots and lots of adults and kids better understand why they react or behave the way they do. In my clinic a client on the neurodiversity spectrum is a client with superpowers - once they get to understand all there is about it.