Autism

About 1% of the world’s population is affected by Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), a developmental condition that impacts communication, behavior, and social interaction. At Pediatrics & Genetics in Alpharetta, Georgia, experienced pediatrician Dr. Vidya, provides compassionate, evidence-based care to support early identification and intervention for autism.

The initial assessment for autism begins in pediatrics with ongoing developmental surveillance conducted during routine well-child visits. As part of comprehensive preventive care, formal autism screening is performed at 18 and 24 months of age, following established guidelines.

If concerns arise, Dr. Vidya conducts a thorough developmental evaluation and provides recommendations based on your child’s individual needs. These may include referrals to autism specialists, early intervention programs, or other supportive therapies to promote optimal growth and development.

At Pediatrics & Genetics, we are committed to providing family-centered care that enables every child to reach their full potential.

How do I know if my child has autism?

Autism spectrum disorder, or autism, is a developmental disorder caused by brain abnormalities. It affects your child’s social skills, communication, and behavior, impacting their ability to interact with others. Autism can also make it challenging for your child to self-regulate, increasing the risk of other behavioral problems.

Personalized treatment can help regulate your child’s symptoms so they can learn to function and live life to its fullest potential.

Does autism present symptoms?

Autism symptoms include the following:

• Intense or unusual interests
• Sensory aversions, like fear of loud noises
• Trouble making eye contact or facial expressions
• Delayed or absent language development
• Insisting on a regular routine

Many children with autism exhibit restrictive or repetitive behaviors. For example, your child might rock back and forth, flap their arms, or make unusual noises. 

What to Expect During a Pediatric Assessment

Developmental Surveillance: From your child’s first well-child visit, the pediatrician will observe behaviors and developmental milestones. This includes watching how your child giggles, responds to their name, makes eye contact, and interacts with others—important indicators of communication and social development.

Screening: The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends autism screening for all children at their 18- and 24-month well-child visits. Common tools, such as the Modified Checklist for Autism in Toddlers (M-CHAT), help identify early signs that may warrant further evaluation.

Parental Input: Your insights are a vital part of the assessment. The pediatrician will ask about your child’s behavior, developmental progress, and medical history to gain a full understanding of their growth and needs.

Referral: If any concerns arise during screening or observation, the pediatrician may refer your child for a more in-depth diagnostic evaluation with a specialist—such as a developmental pediatrician, child psychologist, or another professional experienced in assessing developmental differences.