‘Parents should observe kids’ behaviour at early stage’

Manav Mander

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Tribune News Service

Ludhiana, April 1

April 2 is observed as a day to create awareness regarding autism which is a developmental disorder of variable severity characterised by difficulty in social interaction by restricted and repetitive patterns of thought and behaviour.

It impacts the nervous system and affects the overall emotional, social and physical health of an affected individual.

Parents generally delay in contacting the doctor thinking that the behaviour of the child would improve with age and even ignore noticeable signs.

According to experts, only early intervention is the key to reduce severity of the disorder.

Dr Anshul Mahajan, a psychiatrist from Manas Clinic, said this problem should not be ignored and it can be cured with medicines and counselling.

“If parents notice anything awkward in the behaviour of their kid and feel that his/her learning and grasping power is slow, then they should see a doctor. Parents should observe the behaviour of the kid during early years,” said Dr Mahajan.

Dr Mahajan added, “If there are two kids in the family, both can be compared to arrive at a conclusion. Social skill mechanism of the child is developed through training. Things improve with the passage of time and it (Autism) can be treated with through therapies, interventions and medications.”

Another-city based clinical psychologist, Dr Swati said, “Autism warrants immediate attention. Earlier, the disorder is diagnosed, intervention can be started. No two autistic kids are same. Treatment schedule and therapies are made according to the child.”

Things to notice in children

• Poor eye contact
• Playing, sharing or talking with other people does not interest the child
• Prefers to be alone
• Doesn’t understand emotions
• Delayed speech and language skill
• Repeats the same phrase over and over again
• Repetitive behaviour
• Hyper behaviour
• Fussy eating habits
• Short attention span