Children with autism have difficulty with social skills and communication. They often behave in restricted and repetitive ways and have what seem like abnormally intense interests.
Autism is more common in boys than girls. 61 causes it is not clear. Scientists 62 (study) genes and possible environmental influences.
Doctors usually cannot confirm a diagnosis of autism 63 a child is about three years old. Rebecca Landa is a researcher at the Kennedy Krieger Institute and Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine. She wanted to find out what differences in development might 64 (see) earlier. She led a new study that observed 235 babies between six and 36 months of age.
“At six months of age, the signs of some risk for developing communication and social delays, including autism, include motor delays. 65 does not mean that the baby is going to have autism, but it does mean the baby needs to have some exercises to strengthen their body. And when they strengthen their body, they are better able to play with toys and engage with people, 66 then goes on to help them have better outcomes.”
By the time a baby is one year old, signs of possible autism include difficulty in 67 words and not looking eye-to-eye or reaching out to other people. By 14 months, the baby might smile less and use language less. 68 , Professor Landa says these signs can be so small that they might be missed 69 a short health exam.
The earlier parents notice delays, she says, 70 they can begin doing simple things that may help improve their child's development.