One study showed that children who were more fearful or had anxiety, as well as premature babies or those with birth complications, might present with more sensory issues. The child may have a high pain tolerance, may bump into surrounding walls or objects, and may have a need to touch or mouth items. Hypo sensitivity is when a child does not have enough sensory stimulation. A child with this may also be a finicky eater. The child may have a low tolerance for pain, some coordination issues, and/or they could be sensitive to certain sights or sounds such as bright lights or noisy appliances. Hyper sensitivity is when a child is easily stimulated by sensory stimuli. In regard to sensory issues, most information refers to two types: 1. Being aware of one’s own heart rate is another example, as well as the link between emotions and the body’s reaction to those feelings. For example, a person can feel how hot or cold an object is through their skin or know when they are thirsty or hungry. The final component, interoception, is the awareness of what is happening within one’s own body. Vestibular function is the inner ear and brain working together to help control movement of the eyes, body balance, and one’s awareness of their own body in relation to other objects around them. Proprioception is a sense of one’s own body movement or position, so that if a child lifts their hand, they are aware that they are doing that action. Vestibular function and proprioception are sometimes referred to as the “sixth and seventh sense.” Sensory processing involves eight components: the five senses – taste, smell, hearing, seeing and touch as well as three other components. Many children with SPD may be extremely sensitive to the way certain things feel, look, or sound they may be distracted more easily and their fine motor skills may be lacking. Originally called “sensory integration dysfunction,” it is said to affect approximately 5-16% of school-aged children in general. They may react to sensory stimuli in a socially or emotionally negative way, and this could affect their behavior or the way other people respond to them. A person with sensory processing disorder (SPD) has an impairment in the way their brain processes the sensory information that is used to regulate behavior and motor function/performance such as balance, walking, and coordination. Sensory processing is the way a person’s brain perceives sensory information and how that person responds to that information. The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) states that a child under the age of 36 months who may have a developmental delay could possibly qualify for services within their local district. While there is no cure for autism, early treatment is better for development, with therapy aiding in speech delays, walking, and social interaction. The causes for autism are not known, however some factors may be biological (possibly related to having older parents) or genetic (in which chromosomal conditions create a greater chance of having ASD, and having a sibling with the condition leading to a higher risk.) Environmental factors have also been considered, and the prescription drugs, valproic acid or thalidomide, while used in pregnancy, have been associated with a higher risk. These would include autistic disorder, asperger’s syndrome, and pervasive developmental disorder not otherwise specified (PDD-NOS). Because there is no medical test to diagnose, a doctor would need to look at the developmental milestones and the child’s behavior, while taking into account any parental input about the child.Īutism spectrum disorder (ASD) is named due to the spectrum of disorders within the category. If an intellectual disability or an intellectual developmental disorder is not the sole cause of these deficiencies, with a child’s socialization and communication being below what is typical for their level of development, this could be a sign of autism. Some children may show stimming behavior, such as hand flapping and repetitive noises, while others may need a toy to be placed in exactly the same spot each time, with a dislike for any disruption or change.Īutism can cause a child to learn, react, and attend to details differently. A child may repeat certain behaviors or have restrictive mannerisms or interests. Deficiencies that persist in these areas could be a problem. During the early stages of a child’s development, children begin to communicate and socialize, beginning with their parents, while reacting to and showing emotions. Human development occurs in stages with milestones that are met or exceeded over time. Autism is a developmental disorder which, according to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th Edition (DSM-5), has certain criteria for the diagnosis.
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