What Are the Signs of Mild Autism in a 5 Year Old?

Autism is a spectrum disorder, which means that there are several forms; their types and severity occur along a continuum. Every child with autism presents differently, but there are some common signs of mild autism to look for in a 5-year-old.

  1. Visual Thinking

    • Many children with autism are visual thinkers.They will respond to and even be obsessed with vibrant colors, spinning objects and bright lights.

    Feelings

    • Children on the spectrum usually struggle with recognizing, expressing and coping with feelings. Such a child can alternate between emotional flatness and near hysteria.

    Language

    • Problems with language are often the first clue that something isn't right in a child's development. There is often a difference with pragmatic or social language skills such as listening, taking turns and making eye contact.

    Relating

    • Social skills are challenging for children with an autism spectrum disorder. Children who are mildly affected might be awkward and unsure about how to initiate and sustain relationships.

    Sensory Processing

    • Most children with autism have difficulty processing sensory information. They may show sensitivities, such as being frightened by loud noises, or they may show a need for increased instruction, as they may touch or eat things inappropriately.

    Playing

    • Since social, language and sensory processing skills affects play behavior, a child with autism might look different when he plays. A lack of imaginative play is common in autistic children as well.

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