Child Development Unit

1) What Causes Autism?

There is no single cause of autism. Current scientific evidence strongly supports a genetic contribution, particularly when there is a family history of autism. Children with a sibling on the autism spectrum are at higher risk. Certain genetic conditions, including chromosomal abnormalities, are also associated with a higher likelihood of autism.

Environmental and prenatal factors may also play a role. These include increased parental age or other conditions that might affect developing brain during pregnancy. Research indicates that autism may begin to develop before birth and may also be influenced by events during early infancy. It is important to emphasise that autism is not caused by parenting style, social environment, or vaccination.

2) Common Signs and Behaviours of Autism

The features of autism differ from child to child. Some children show subtle signs, while others have more obvious difficulties. Symptoms usually appear in early childhood and continue into adulthood, although many children show meaningful improvement with early therapy.

A child or adult with autism may display some of the following characteristics:

• Limited eye contact and preference to play alone

• Difficulty forming relationships or showing interest in peers

• Challenges in understanding or expressing emotions

• Reduced response when spoken to by name

• Heightened sensitivity to sounds, textures, tastes, or touch

• Repetitive speech, such as echoing words or phrases

• Limited imaginative or pretend play

• Strong preference for routines and distress with change

• Repetitive movements or fixed interests

• Difficulty with attention, learning, or emotional regulation

• Loss of previously acquired skills, such as speech or social interaction

Early recognition of these signs allows families to seek assessment and support at the most critical stage of brain development.

3) Diagnosis: Why Early Assessment Matters

Autism is diagnosed through developmental and behavioural assessment, not through blood tests or scans. A trained specialist evaluates a child’s communication, social interaction, play skills, and behaviour patterns. Some signs may appear as early as 18 months, and reliable diagnosis can often be made as early as 18 months old by trained specialists.

Unfortunately, many children are still diagnosed later than ideal. Delayed diagnosis means delayed therapy and lost opportunities for early brain development. Early identification allows timely intervention, which is proven to significantly improve communication, learning, independence, and long-term outcomes.

4) Treatment & Early Intervention: There Is Strong Hope

Although autism has no cure, early, structured intervention can dramatically improve a child’s abilities and quality of life. Therapy aims to enhance:

• Communication and language skills

• Social interaction and play

• Emotional regulation

• Learning readiness

• Daily living and adaptive skills

Intervention can begin as early as one year of age. Parents who notice developmental delays are strongly encouraged to seek professional assessment promptly.