When to get help for your child

The shortest answer to the question "When should I get help for my child?" is "As soon as you notice a problem." In real life, however, the answer is more complex. "Normal development" includes quite a range in many areas (physical, emotional, cognitive, psychological, social) and few children progress exactly as described in the baby development books or completely in step with their peers in all areas. Most of the time, the child is somewhere in the "normal range"--a little "ahead" in some areas and maybe a little "behind" in others. When a child seems "ahead," parents are often proud and when a child seems to be "behind," parents become worried.

However, with autism and related disorders, early identification and treatment can greatly improve the child's chances of improvement. The best way to track your child's development is through regular routine well child visits with your child's pediatrician. If you have concerns, discuss them with the doctor. If you are not satisfied with the answers, seek a second opinion. Our Signs of Autism fact sheet has more detailed information for your reference and discussion with your child's doctor.