Difference Between Developmental Delays and Autism
Although some of the signs and symptoms of developmental delays and autism may look the same, they are two different conditions.
It's important for parents to monitor their child’s development and address any concern early, as early identification and support can make a significant difference. Understanding the differences and knowing when delays in their children's development are normal and when they could be a sign of autism or other developmental disorders is crucial.
Children with autism usually experience developmental delays in one or more areas, but not every child who experiences a delay in their development has autism.
When autism or other developmental disorders are diagnosed at a young age, early intervention can greatly improve your child's development. As children learn and grow at their own pace, early intervention services are designed to support each child’s unique developmental needs. Addressing concerns early through tailored support can also prevent or reduce secondary issues such as behavior problems, social isolation, and academic difficulties.
Developmental Delays Vs Autism
What is a developmental delay?
In simple terms, a developmental delay is when a child doesn't hit certain well-established developmental milestones within the expected timeframes.
Developmental milestones are split up into different age groups, for children from two months old up to five years old. They are based on the average rates at which children have been observed to develop in different areas.
Developmental delays can occur in the following areas:
- Cognitive (mental and problem-solving abilities)
- Sensorimotor (movement and physical skills)
- Speech and language (talking and communicating in other ways)
- Socioemotional delays (experience, expression, and management of emotions)
For example, speech delays are when a child is learning to form speech sounds and develop language skills at a slower rate than average. When your child has this type of developmental delay, it doesn't mean they are autistic. They might just be what's known as a “late talker.”
While developmental delays can be concerning to parents, they are more common than you might think — approximately 10-15% of preschool-aged children experience some form of delay in their development.
All children develop at different rates, and there are many different possible reasons for developmental delays. Minor delays in development are usually not a cause for alarm, but significant delays or delays in multiple areas might be signs of something bigger, such as autism.
What is autism?
Autism, or autism spectrum disorder (ASD), is a term that refers to a broad range of conditions that can be categorized into different subtypes. People with autism often struggle in the areas of communication and social skills, but the degree to which they struggle is highly variable.
Common autism signs in children include:
- Difficulties communicating and interacting with others
- Repetitive behaviors
- Using only non-verbal communication
- Speaking only in single words or repeating words
- Finding things like bright lights and noises overwhelming, stressful, and uncomfortable
- Not making eye contact
- Not talking as much as other children their age
- Not responding to their own name
- Not smiling back at you when you smile at them
Many of the above signs of autism can also be caused by a developmental delay, such as a speech delay, but they are usually more severe in children with autism.
It's important to note that autism is not a mental illness. Rather, it is a condition that causes a child's brain to function differently.
Every case of autism is different, and people with autism will have it for their whole lives. While this condition does not have a “cure,” it can be treated to help children develop faster and learn to do certain things that are more challenging for them. A person-centered approach to child autism therapy is essential, as it focuses on the individual needs and goals of the person receiving services.
Some people with more extreme cases of autism may remain nonverbal for their whole lives, but many of those who experience speech delays and other struggles with communication early on in their lives can learn to communicate fairly normally with the right assistance and support.
Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is considered the gold standard for autism treatment, using positive reinforcement to build communication and social skills while reducing challenging behaviors. Social skills training, which uses role-playing and stories, helps children navigate social interactions. Speech-language therapy supports children in using verbal language, signs, or communication devices more effectively.
What Should I Do if I Suspect My Child Has a Developmental Delay or Autism?
In order to spot developmental delays or possible signs of autism in your children, you should familiarize yourself with the different developmental milestones for children.
In terms of speech, if your child is not starting to speak between 18-24 months of age, it could be a sign of a speech delay, which may or may not be caused by autism. But there are many other signs of developmental delays to watch out for.
For a full list of developmental milestones, you can check the CDC's developmental milestones page, where you can even download a checklist. The page breaks down milestones in social and emotional development, language and communication development, cognitive development, and movement and physical development by age.
If you notice any signs of developmental delays in your child, you should take them to get evaluated by a professional, such as your general practitioner or a pediatric specialist, or a therapist. They will be able to provide you with more guidance and let you know if your child may be experiencing some type of condition other than a minor delay in their development.
If your GP or pediatric doctor thinks that your child might have autism or another condition, the next step is to take them to an early intervention specialist.
How early intervention can help
When a child is diagnosed with autism or other developmental conditions, the best thing to do to aid with their development is to start early intervention as soon as possible.
Early intervention specialists can screen for and diagnose autism and other developmental conditions in children from a very young age. They can then develop a treatment plan to help your child overcome early challenges with communication, social skills, cognitive abilities, and physical development.
The sooner your child is diagnosed and begins early intervention treatment, the better their chances are of developing important life skills at a young age. Ideally, children should start early intervention close to the age of three. At this age, young children’s brains show greater neuroplasticity, making early intervention particularly effective.
Evaluation and Assessment: How are developmental delays and autism diagnosed?
Identifying developmental delays and autism early is essential for ensuring children receive the support they need to thrive. The evaluation and assessment process is the first step in connecting families with early intervention services tailored to their child’s unique developmental needs.
When a parent, caregiver, or healthcare provider notices concerns in a child’s development, whether in physical skills, communication, social or emotional development, or cognitive abilities, a referral can be made to an early intervention program. In Erie County, families can reach out to ECCM to begin this process.
A team of healthcare professionals, including psychologists, occupational therapists, and speech therapists, will conduct a comprehensive assessment. This evaluation uses standardized tools and techniques, such as applied behavior analysis, to observe the child’s behavior, assess their strengths and challenges, and gather input from parents and caregivers.
The early intervention program is designed to be family-centered, respecting each family’s strengths, values, and independence. Service practitioners work closely with families to ensure that assessments and supports are meaningful and relevant to their everyday lives. The goal is to enhance daily opportunities for learning and development, using natural learning opportunities within the child’s home and community.
If you have concerns about your child’s development, don’t hesitate to contact a healthcare professional or early intervention provider. Early evaluation and assessment can open the door to services and supports that make a lasting difference in your child’s life.
Get Support for Developmental Delays and Autism at ECCM
Our early intervention program at ECCM is available for children up to the age of five. If you notice signs of developmental delays in your child, contact us today to set up a screening for autism and other conditions that may be behind the delays.
Our compassionate team of early intervention specialists provides services to help your child improve their skills in the areas of ​​physical, cognitive, communication, adaptive, and socioemotional development.