My guest is Dr. Greg Miles a clinical psychologist who specializes in autism spectrum disorder. He shares some of the basics in understanding autism and signs and symptoms to watch out for with our young kids. Here are a few of the symptoms
- Making little or inconsistent eye contact
- Appearing not to look at or listen to people who are talking
- Infrequently sharing interest, emotion, or enjoyment of objects or activities (including by infrequently pointing at or showing things to others)
- Not responding or being slow to respond to one’s name or to other verbal bids for attention
- Having difficulties with the back and forth of conversation
- Often talking at length about a favorite subject without noticing that others are not interested or without giving others a chance to respond
- Displaying facial expressions, movements, and gestures that do not match what is being said
- Having an unusual tone of voice that may sound sing-song or flat and robot-like
- Having trouble understanding another person’s point of view or being unable to predict or understand other people’s actions
- Difficulties adjusting behaviors to social situations
- Difficulties sharing in imaginative play or in making friends
Because autism is a spectrum, people with the disorder may have a few characteristics or many. They may integrate and function easily in society or there may be more of a struggle. The therapies and interventions can be helpful for them to learn skills to be more empowered in society.
Parents, neighbors, educators etc. should educate themselves and embrace and accept those with neurodiverse brains.
Dr. Miles runs his own clinic where he asseses for autism spectrum disorders, ADHD, learning disabilities, behavioral issues, mental health issues etc. They also provide skills classes for kids/teens as well as support groups for parents.
Mileston Neurodevelopment Center.