Autism Spectrum Disorder

What Are the Signs of Autism?

ASD affects each child differently, and signs may appear as early as infancy. 

Here are some common characteristics:

• Appears to be in their "own world" or disengaged from others around them.
• Delayed speech or language development
• Intense focus on specific topics, routines or activities
• Limited eye contact and difficulty with social interactions
• Minimal babbling during infancy
• Reduced use of gestures such as pointing or waving
• Repetitive behaviors or speech patterns
• Sensory sensitivities, such as strong reactions to sounds, lights and tastes
• Sensory-seeking behaviors, such as a strong interest in visual inspection and exploring textures 

What Causes Autism Spectrum Disorder?

There is no single known cause of ASD. Experts believe it develops from a combination of genetic and environmental influences:

• Genetics: About 70% of ASD cases have a suspected genetic link, though it is not always identifiable.
• Environmental factors: Some environmental factors may increase risk, but currently, they are not fully understood.

How Is Autism Spectrum Disorder Diagnosed?

There is no blood test or brain scan that can confirm autism. If your child has ASD, they will be diagnosed based on their behavior and developmental history. 

Diagnostic tools include:

• ADOS (Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule), a play-based, standardized assessment
• Clinical observations by developmental pediatricians, psychologists or other trained providers
• Parent and teacher input through developmental questionnaires and interviews

Diagnosis typically involves a team-based approach.

How Is Autism Treated?

There is no one standard treatment for ASD. We personalize your child’s treatment plan and may include a mix of therapies, including the following:

• Applied behavior analysis (ABA) teaches new skills and behaviors using positive reinforcement.
• Occupational therapy helps with motor coordination, sensory issues and daily living skills.
• Social skills groups teach children how to interact with peers in structured settings.
• Speech therapy supports verbal and nonverbal communication.

The Role of Medications

Your doctor may prescribe medicine to help manage ASD-related conditions such as ADHD, anxiety, sleep problems or aggression. However, these medications do not treat ASD itself.

Parental Training

Parent training is a key part of ASD treatment and is essential to your child’s care plan at Lurie Children’s. It equips caregivers with practical tools to manage disruptive behaviors, build routines and support their child’s development at home.

At Lurie Children’s, parents learn how to use special techniques consistently across different settings — home, school and the community. This helps children carry the skills they learn during therapy sessions into everyday life.

Research over the last decade shows that parental training improves a child’s behavior and skill development while reducing caregiver stress. The training works by helping parents feel more confident and competent in managing their child’s behavioral challenges. 

Communication Tools

Some people with ASD use augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) tools if they are nonspeaking or have limited speech. These tools can help your child communicate, either by assisting them with their verbal skills or allowing them to express themselves without actually speaking.

Here are some examples: 

• Apps that help with sentence formation and comprehension
• Picture boards or visual schedules
• Tablet-based systems that vocalize messages

AAC devices can help your child participate more fully in daily life.

What Are the Long-Term Effects of Autism Spectrum Disorder?

ASD is generally a lifelong condition. However, with early support and consistent therapy, many people build skills they need to meet the challenges they face.

Long-term outcomes vary widely. Some people live independently, go to college and build fulfilling relationships. Others may require lifelong support, depending on their needs and access to resources.

Are There Any Strengths Associated With ASD?

Many people with ASD excel in certain areas, including:

• Strong memory and attention to detail
• Advanced visual or spatial reasoning
• Keen sensitivity to environmental changes

These qualities are part of the broader concept of neurodiversity, which values and respects different ways of thinking and experiencing the world.

The Truth About Autism 

Misunderstandings about autism abound. Here’s the truth:

• Autism is not the same as an intellectual disability. Many people on the autism spectrum have typical or high intelligence.
• People with ASD aren’t necessarily antisocial. Many people on the autism spectrum seek out and enjoy social interaction. However, they may struggle with the nuances of communication.
• Vaccines do not cause autism. There’s no legitimate research to suggest a connection.

Why Choose Lurie Children’s for Autism Care?

At Lurie Children’s, we take a comprehensive and compassionate approach to caring for children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Our team understands that every child — and every family — is different. That’s why we offer personalized, supportive care grounded in the belief that neurodiversity is something to celebrate.

A team with deep expertise in autism, including developmental pediatricians, social workers, psychologists, nurses and other specialists, will support your child. Together, they provide care that addresses not just medical needs, but the full experience of growing up with ASD.

We also offer a wide range of wraparound services to help families navigate every stage of their journey, including:

• Parent workshops in English and Spanish to build confidence and skills at home
• Connection to school advocacy resources to support Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) and ensure your child receives the services they need
• Social work support to help with practical and emotional needs
• Transition planning for adulthood, including planning for appropriate supports and connecting to vocational and other community resources

At Lurie Children’s, we’re here for your whole family every step of the way.

About Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics at Lurie Children’s

The Division of Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics at Lurie Children’s offers expert evaluation and personalized care for children with developmental delays, autism, Down syndrome and related conditions. Our multidisciplinary team partners with families to understand each child’s unique needs, providing tailored assessments and care plans. 

Learn more about Developmental & Behavioral Pediatrics at Lurie Children’s.