If these statements describe your child, seek out evaluation by talking to your doctor.

1. Doesn't often look at you.

2. Has flat affect (Shows very little facial expression).

3. Doesn't show you things or point to things.

4. Doesn't or rarely responds to their name or other attempts to get their attention.

5. Uses your hand as a tool. (May put your hand on things they want you to open).

6. More interested in objects than people.

7. Moves hands, fingers, or body in repetitive or unusal ways.

8. Has unusual reaction to sounds, lights, or textures (foods and touch).

9. Gets upset over change in routines.

10. Focused on unusual objects.

• Autism can be diagnosed between 18-24 months of age but may not be diagnosed until 3-5 years old.

• If your child is diagnosed and is less than 3, look into early intervention in your area. If your child is between 3-5, look into early services provided by your school district depending on your state.

• Seek out speech and language services if your child is not talking or if you can't understand your child. Some speech therapists also provide feeding therapy for children with limited foods that they will eat.