Autism can be a baffling and complex disorder. You may have many questions and concerns when your child displays unfamiliar behaviors. We’re here to help you every step of the journey.
Our autism providers are experts in this field and will assess your child’s needs and customize their treatment. We will also educate and support your family to ensure the best possible experience.
Early signs of autism
According to the National Autism Association, autism is a neurodevelopmental disorder and can range from mild to severe.
Signs of autism can include any combination of the three characteristics indicated below.
- Limited or restricted eye contact and/or eye gaze
- Limited or no interest in age appropriate activities
- Limited or no response to name
- Difficulty or failure to engage with peers
- Lack of spontaneous or make-believe play, sounds, smiles, or other facial expressions by nine months or thereafter
- Limited to no babbling by 12 months
- Does not say single words by 16 months
- Different prosody (little variation in pitch, odd intonation, irregular rhythm, different voice quality or different sounds)
- Limited to no two-word meaningful phrases (without imitating or repeating) by 24 months
- Any loss of any language or social skills at any age
- Limited use of gestures
- Uses other’s hands as a tool
- Consistent repetition of certain words or phrases
- Repetitive movements with objects (lining up or stacking)
- Repetitive movements or posturing of body, arms, hands or fingers
- Repetitive use of language and/or motor mannerisms (for example, hand-flapping, twirling objects)
- Persistent fixation on parts of objects
- Rigidity to sameness or patterns
- Aversions or strong preferences for oral input, tactile input, auditory input, movement, etc.
Evaluation and treatment
Approximately 1% of American children ages 3 to 17 have an autism spectrum disorder. While children cannot outgrow autism, it is treatable. Early diagnosis and treatment are essential for success.
Learn more about our comprehensive autism evaluation and treatment options.
Autism Support Fund
We provide grants to help patients cover costs of social skills classes, sensory and safety equipment, respite care, and therapeutic materials.
Learn more about the Autism Support Fund and apply.
Autism resources
The Birth to 3 program helps provide services for children with disabilities in Wisconsin and nationwide.
The Autism Society of Greater Wisconsin offers resources, education, and support to families. Be sure to check their website to find the local affiliate. For more information, call 888.428.8476 or 920.558.4602.
Arc Autism Now provides high quality resources and information in core areas across the lifespan of individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) and other developmental disabilities, their families, caregivers, and professional in the field.
If your child has been diagnosed with autism, visit the Wisconsin Department of Health Services website for resources, funding, insurance and more.