April is Autism Awareness Month & STI Awareness Month:

We’re offering resources to keep you informed about the health awareness topics happening this month.

Autism Spectrum Disorder:

Autism affects how your child sees the world and can make communication and social interaction difficult. It’s marked by struggles in socializing, communicating, and repetitive behaviors. Autism is a disorder that occurs on a spectrum which means that it presents very different in different people, with varied symptoms and varied degrees. 

Symptoms Include:

• Repeats words or phrases over and over (called echolalia)
• Plays with toys the same way every time
• Is focused on parts of objects (for example, wheels)
• Gets upset by minor changes
• Has obsessive interests
• Must follow certain routines
• Does not respond to name by 9 months of age
• Does not show facial expressions like happy, sad, angry, and surprised by 9 months of age
• Does not play simple interactive games like pat-a-cake by 12 months of age

See more symptoms of Autism Spectrum Disorder.

How can my pediatrician help?

Your child’s periodic checkups are crucial for spotting signs of autism. During these checkups, the pediatrician might ask specific questions or use questionnaires to check on your child’s development. Early diagnosis is important, so doctors can provide the right support or refer you to specialists.  If you think your child needs screening, no matter their age, talk to your pediatrician. You know your child best! Parents play a key role by sharing any information about their child’s behavior or development.

Concerned about your child’s development?  Here is a handy fact sheet on how to get help for your child in ENGLISH, and in SPANISH.

Intervention Services:

For children under 3, if autism is suspected, they will be referred to the Alabama Early Intervention Services https://www.rehab.alabama.gov/services/ei

For children 3 and older, your school district has a Special Education and Related Service Program.

• Huntsville: https://www.huntsvillecityschools.org/page/special-education
• Athens: https://www.acs-k12.org/departments3/our-purpose
• Madison County: https://www.mcssk12.org/departments-information/instruction/special-services
• Morgan County: https://www.morgank12.org/domain/60

Additional Resources:

• Autism Society of Alabama https://nrd.gov/resource/detail/15997917/Autism+Society+of+Alabama
• Alabama Department of Rehabilitation Services https://www.rehab.alabama.gov/services/ei#defaultModal
• Alabama Department of Rehabilitation Office Locations (PDF) https://www.rehab.alabama.gov/Documents/Office/ADRS%20Locations%20(revised%202023%2012-22).pdf
• Alabama Early Intervention System https://www.rehab.alabama.gov/NeverTooEarlyAL/home
• CDC Free “Learn the Sings. Act Early.” Materials : https://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/actearly/freematerials.html