1. Exceptional Lives
  2. Massachusetts Guides
  3. What to Do if Your Child is on the Autism Spectrum
  4. Common challenges with behavior, habits and skills
  5. Understanding your child's behaviors

Describe unusual behaviors or habits to the doctor

Even if something seems unimportant, take note of it and tell the doctor.

There are two reasons for this: 

  1. Certain behavior patterns and habits may be signs that your child has autism or another developmental condition. Even if you have a diagnosis, any details you can share may help to confirm or refine it.

  2. Even if your child does not have a condition, there may be things you can do to help understand their habits and make things easier.

Here's what you can do:

  • Observe your child carefully. Write down any behaviors  or habits that seem unusual compared to other kids their age.

  • Take pictures and videos so you can show the doctor what you see. (Your child won't always do these behaviors in front of the doctor!)

  • Share everything with the doctor and any specialists you see. If you end up getting a more thorough evaluation, share these with that team as well.

  • Ask specifically how to help your child learn the developmental skills they need. For example: communicating, socializing, or using their hands and bodies to play and do typical activities. Then you can try to get them the kind of therapy that will help them develop the type of skills they struggle with.

 

See the list of Common behaviors and challenges in the menu.

These are all common for kids with autism, and are worth talking to your doctor about.