Symptoms
Home Causes Symptoms References	Each child diagnosed with Autism is different and can range from mildly affected (high functioning) to experiencing greater challenges (low functioning). All children with Autism have abnormal functioning in three core areas of development: social interaction, communication (verbal and non-verbal), and behavior. Symptoms may vary from moderate to severe depending upon the child, but some include: Social Skills: Fails to respond to his or her name Has poor eye contact Resists cuddling and holding Seems to prefer playing alone Shows little pretend or imaginative play Language: Begins talking later than other children Speaks with an abnormal tone or rhythm May repeat words or phrases Cannot start a conversation or maintain one Communicates with gestures instead of words Behavior: Performs repetitive movements Becomes disturbed at the slightest change in routines or rituals Constantly moving Narrow interests and short attention span Shows aggression to others or self Has intense tantrums Download the following quiz if you believe your child may have autism: Social Delays Top of page Questions? Email Anderswe@uwec.edu Last updated April 13, 2010