Signs and symptoms of autism spectrum disorder
Some children show signs of autism early on, like making little eye contact, not responding to their name, or an apparent indifference to their caregivers. Others may develop normally for the first few months or years and then suddenly become withdrawn or aggressive or lose language skills that they had already developed. But signs are usually apparent by 2 years of age.
Each person with autism has a unique pattern of behavior and level of severity. They call that “low functioning” or “high functioning” or somewhere in the middle.
Some children on the autism spectrum have a hard time learning in school. They may have lower intelligence in some areas than neurotypical children, and normal intelligence in other areas. Others may display normal intelligence or even a higher intelligence than their neurotypical peers in specific areas. However, they may have trouble expressing themselves or applying their knowledge to everyday life, or they may have difficulties adjusting to change and social situations.
Autism spectrum disorder can be a complex mix of symptoms in each person, making it hard to determine its severity. Generally, the severity is based on the level of disruption it causes in normal functioning.
Each person with autism has a unique pattern of behavior and level of severity. They call that “low functioning” or “high functioning” or somewhere in the middle.
Some children on the autism spectrum have a hard time learning in school. They may have lower intelligence in some areas than neurotypical children, and normal intelligence in other areas. Others may display normal intelligence or even a higher intelligence than their neurotypical peers in specific areas. However, they may have trouble expressing themselves or applying their knowledge to everyday life, or they may have difficulties adjusting to change and social situations.
Autism spectrum disorder can be a complex mix of symptoms in each person, making it hard to determine its severity. Generally, the severity is based on the level of disruption it causes in normal functioning.
About our Executive Director
Alejandra Montiel is a National Board-Certified Medical Interpreter and Translator. A native Venezuelan, she has lived and worked in the Bay Area for the last 25 years. Alejandra is the parent of two young adults, one of whom was diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder at the age of three. He is currently attending Los Medanos College.
Alejandra works at Kaiser Richmond Medical Center. She lives in the City of Richmond with her mother and their three rescue dogs.
Alejandra Montiel, NBCMI
Executive Director: