Autism spectrum disorders (ASD) often can be reliably detected by age 3. In some cases even earlier than that. Recent studies suggest that kids may eventually be accurately diagnosed by the age of 1 year or even younger.
One thing for certain is that if your child shows any of the early warning signs of autism then they should be evaluated by a professional who specializes in autism disorders.
Parents are typically the first to suspect that something may be wrong.
Some children just seem "different" from birth. They may be unresponsive to people or focus intently on one item for a long period of time. Others notice changes in their otherwise normal child. An active, happy toddler may suddenly become silent, withdrawn, show self-abusive behavior, or perhaps become indifferent to social overtones. They suspect something may be wrong.
Research studies have consistently shown that parents are usually right about noticing development problems, even though they may not know exactly what the specific problem is. This proves what parents already know—trust your instincts when it comes to your children.
The pervasive developmental disorders, or autism spectrum disorders, run the gamut from a severe form, called autistic disorder, to a relatively milder form, Asperger’s syndrome. If your child has symptoms of these disorders, but does not meet the specific criteria for them, then the diagnosis is called pervasive developmental disorder not otherwise specified (PDD-NOS). Two other rare, very severe disorders that are included in the autism spectrum disorders are Rett syndrome and childhood disintegrative disorder. Most children are diagnosed with classic autism, PDD-NOS, and Asperger’s syndrome.
Today, children can be diagnosed earlier than ever. A good therapist or neurologist can often test your child to see if he or she exhibits the behavior of autism. To learn more about the tools that your therapist may use to diagnose your child see the article, What Tools Are Used for Early Diagnosis of Autism?
And to learn not only about diagnostic techniques but also to gain insights on autism treatments and learn how to help your child live a happy and successful life, see the book, The Autism Survival Guide, by Craig Kendall.
I enjoy and appreciate the information, anything to help my son and my own understanding of what life is like for Nicholas. It also helps me educate my son's teacher and EA which this process is ongoing and at times very frustrating.
My name is Matt Turner from Australia. I have a 6 y.o. with autism (fairly mild). I found your work insightful and helpful - my wife is a doctor and spent many hours wading through medical texts to no avail. Our son Finley Turner is a very bright, friendly, healthy, unconditionally loved boy who can lose it sometimes. The guide helped us understand what to do and it helps him as much as us. Thanks for the work and I have recommended you to other parents in similar situations.
I found your articles to be extremely helpful...I applaud you for sharing your story and helping others who are going through similar situations. Thank you for sharing your story.
I was pleasantly surprised by the consistency, and thoroughness of the topics. I think this is a valuable tool. I think this was a valuable tool for me because as a parent we all need a kick in the butt and stay on task, constantly fighting, updating and communicating with caregivers, teachers and finding tools for our children. Keep it up!
I definitely found your information helpful. My grandson was just diagnosed this summer. He is very smart and sweet. We will continue to be an advocate for him thanks to your information. I am including a picture of him. 
"Hi my son of 3 and a half years was diagnosed today, I had concerns so prior to his appointment I researched it and joined your newsletter. The information was so helpful and very supportive it was almost like having a counselor as I opened each email I felt like some one really understood my situation so thanks you so much for that, it's a very hard thing to accept and you do feel alone but with the letters I was given inspiration and hope that not everything was going to be doom and gloom it was and still is a lifeline.
"I have found the newsletters very valuable. I have forwarded them to teachers who work with Matthias when they apply."
I have been reading your Newsletter for a while now. Find attached a picture of my family. Joel is the little boy in glasses. Thanks for putting a smile on me. My knowledge and support is increasing. I feel more positive towards helping my son than ever.
I am Ben's grandmother and see him every single day. He is a joy. What your info does is help us to understand the melt downs that quite frankly we have always put down to the meds that he takes. We have proved your theory of a strict regime for Ben. Each letter adds to our knowledge. Keep it up dear friend. We learn from you every day and will I am sure continue to learn. God Bless you.
April 14, 2011
Children, Diagnosis