Developmental milestones such as walking and talking are important achievements for your child. If your child is experiencing a delay in achieving those milestones, a developmental screening may be recommended by your pediatrician. A developmental screening can identify several developmental disorders, including autism. Dr. Nathan Rendler and Dr. Kuangkai Tai at Valle Verde Pediatrics in Poway, CA, provide a wide range of medical services for children, including autism screening and treatment.

What You Need To Know About Autism

Autism is a developmental disorder which is best identified when your child is young. Children are often screened at regular well visit appointments at 18 and 24 months. Early treatment of autism is critical to help your child’s development.

Your child may have autism if your child is:

• Not responding to their name being called
• Not showing any interest in objects or things
• Avoiding eye contact and wanting to be alone
• Not understanding the feelings of others or their own
• Not speaking or showing delayed speech
• Repeating the same words and phrases
• Getting upset by changing events

If you notice any of these common signs of autism, speak with your pediatrician about an autism screening. During the autism screening, your pediatrician will:

• Perform a comprehensive medical record review
• Observe your child’s behaviors, mannerisms, cognitive abilities, emotional, and physical delays

Your pediatrician may also have you complete a questionnaire about your child’s behaviors, mannerisms, and other information.

If your child is diagnosed with autism, your pediatrician will develop a customized, comprehensive treatment plan to aid in your child’s development. The goals of the treatment plan are to:

• Improve performance
• Enhance behavior
• Develop life skills
• Develop coping mechanisms

To read more detailed information about autism screening and developmental assessment, please click here.

Want To Know More About Autism?

To learn more about autism and autism screening, call Dr. Nathan Rendler and Dr. Kuangkai Tai at Valle Verde Pediatrics in Poway, CA. You can reach them in the office by calling (858) 487-8333, so call today.