Day 4 of 12 Days of Giving: Understanding Autism's Early Indicators

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When it comes to understanding autism, early recognition can make all the difference in a child's developmental journey. Today, as part of our "12 Days of Giving" series, we're diving deep into this crucial topic with Jessica Marken, founder of New View Autism and a mother who brings both professional expertise and personal experience to the conversation.

The Power of Early Recognition

Before we explore the signs of autism, let's acknowledge a truth many parents face: that nagging feeling that something might be different about their child's development. It's a concern that often keeps parents awake at night, searching for answers. As Jessica shared in our Power Hour conversation, recognizing these early signs isn't about labeling – it's about understanding and supporting your child's unique journey.

Key Indicators to Watch For

Jessica, who brings years of experience as a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (view her professional background), identifies three primary areas where early signs of autism often appear:

1. Communication Patterns The development of language skills can be a significant indicator. Some children may be slow to develop language, while others might show initial typical development followed by regression. It's not just about whether they're speaking – it's about how they're communicating overall.

2. Social Interaction This isn't as simple as being "shy" or "outgoing." Jessica points out that social differences can manifest in unexpected ways. Some children might seem disconnected from peers, while others might show unusually intense social behaviors, like approaching strangers without typical boundaries.

3. Behavioral Patterns Watch for repetitive behaviors or rigid thinking patterns. This might include lining up toys, asking the same questions repeatedly, or showing strong reactions to routine changes.

The Journey to Understanding

What makes this episode particularly powerful is Jessica's dual perspective as both a professional and parent. She shares her personal story of noticing subtle differences in her daughter's development, highlighting how even professionals can experience uncertainty and concern.

Taking Action: What Parents Need to Know

If you're noticing potential signs of autism in your child, here are the key steps Jessica recommends:

1. Document Your Observations Keep track of specific behaviors or developmental concerns you notice. This information will be valuable when speaking with healthcare providers.

2. Seek Professional Evaluation The evaluation process might seem daunting – Jessica describes it as potentially taking up to eight hours of testing – but it's a crucial step toward understanding your child's needs.

3. Research Support Services Understanding the various therapy options, including ABA (Applied Behavior Analysis), can help you make informed decisions about your child's care.

The Power of Community

One of the most impactful messages from our conversation is the importance of reaching out and building a support network. As Jessica emphasizes, sharing your experiences with others can lead to unexpected connections and resources.

Looking Forward

Remember, this journey isn't about changing who your child is – it's about understanding and supporting their unique needs. Early intervention can make a significant difference, but it's never too late to seek help and understanding.

Join the Conversation

This episode is part of our "12 Days of Giving" series, where we're highlighting different aspects of financial and personal wellness throughout the holiday season. Each day brings new insights and resources to help you and your loved ones thrive.

Stay tuned for tomorrow's episode, and don't forget to follow us on social media for daily updates and resources. Together, we can build a more understanding and supportive community for families navigating the autism journey.

Remember, whether you're just starting to notice differences in your child's development or are further along in your journey, you're not alone. There are professionals, resources, and communities ready to support you every step of the way.