

The Autism Society of Canada estimates that 1 of every 150 children are born with autism, which involves a spectrum of disorders that seem to be related to abnormalities in the brain. Signs of autism typically appear before 3 years of age, and sometimes it can be detected as early as 18 months.

Autism occurs 4 times more often in boys than girls , and symptoms vary greatly from child to child. The causes are not known. (And despite concerns about vaccines as a possible cause, extensive studies have not shown a link.)

It is usually parents who notice the first signs of autism. Children who develop normally at first may become less responsive to other people over time. In severe cases, a child may not interact or communicate with others at all.

Children with autism frequently have trouble with social skills and cues or, as the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) explains, "[M]ost children with ASD seem to have tremendous difficulty learning to engage in the give-and-take of everyday human interaction."

Signs of problems with social skill can include:

  • lack of eye contact
  • failure to respond when the child is addressed by name
  • preference for playing alone
  • lack of awareness of other people's feelings
  • unable to interpret facial expressions and gestures
  • resistance to being held or cuddled

Behavioural signs are another hallmark of autism. They range from subtle to extreme, and they can include repetitive movements, such as rocking, flapping hands, or spinning. A child with autism might become obsessed with an object, or have a fascination with an object's moving parts. They may become upset if specific rituals or routines aren't followed. Children with autism may be prone to tantrums or want to move constantly, or be hypersensitive to sound, light, or touch. Physically, they may be overactive or inactive, as well as oversensitive or insensitive to pain. A child with autism might also cry or laugh for no obvious reason. During the teenage years, symptoms may get worse.


The causes of autism are unknown, although researchers have found some genetic differences that may be responsible. Children with autism do not outgrow their condition, although many are able to live independently when they become adults. Others may require supportive living and working environments for life. Very rarely, children with autism are prodigies in a specific area, such as math.

There is no cure for autism, but early diagnosis and treatment can have a positive influence and may reduce symptoms. Your child's doctor can offer advice when selecting the next steps after a diagnosis of autism, including medications, communication and behavioural therapies, and complementary therapies.

Jaclyn Law, 
in association with the MediResource Clinical Team