According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by impaired social interaction, difficulties with verbal and non-verbal communication, and restricted or repetitive behaviour (CDC). As of March 2018, 1 in 51 children ages 6 to 18 in British Columbia have been identified as having ASD. In Canada, ASD is 4.5 times more common in boys (1 in 42) than in girls (1 in 189).
It is often primary caregivers who first notice behaviours consistent with ASD in their child. For example, when the child does not meet typical developmental milestones.
While signs of autism typically develop gradually, some children will reach developmental milestones at a normal pace and then regress.
There are some social, behavioural and sensory characteristics that are consistent with ASD. Knowing what to look for can assist with early, accurate diagnosis and intervention. If you recognize persistent social communication, or social interaction deficits; repeated behaviours or restricted interests; and/or unusual responses to sensations in your child, it is possible that he or she may have autism (AustismBC, 2020).