News India Live, Digital Desk: ‘World Autism Awareness Day’ is celebrated every year on 2 April across the world. Its main objective is to spread awareness about Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) among people, especially parents. Today, millions of children around the world are suffering from a serious condition like autism. This is not a common disease, but a neurodevelopmental condition, which severely affects the mental and social development of children. Health experts say that if parents recognize its symptoms in the beginning, then the child’s development can be given the right direction through timely treatment and therapy. What is Autism Spectrum Disorder? According to Pediatrics Neurology and Child Development expert Dr. Vijay Sharma, autism is a brain condition in which the neurodevelopment (brain development) of the child is affected. Due to this, the child has to face huge difficulties in social behaviour, interacting with people and in the process of learning new things. These symptoms start appearing even before the age of 1 year. Parents often think that the symptoms of autism become visible only when the child grows up, but it is not so. According to Dr. Sharma, the initial signs of autism in a child start appearing at the age of 6 to 12 months. In such a situation, parents should pay close attention to every small action of their child. Not making eye contact (Eye Contact) If your child is not able to make eye contact with you or any other person while talking or playing, then do not take it lightly at all. This can be the earliest and most prominent symptom of autism. Not reacting when the name is called. Usually small children react immediately after hearing their name. But if you are calling your child’s name again and again and he is not giving any reaction or answer, then it is an alarm bell. In this situation, you should immediately seek advice from an expert. Do not copy the expressions of others. Young children very soon start imitating others after seeing their facial expressions and actions, like laughing or clapping. But a child suffering from autism feels unable to do so. Delay in speaking or making sounds. A normal child starts babbling or making some sounds by the age of 6 months. But if your child is delaying too much in making sounds or remains completely silent, then it can be a clear sign of autism. Keep a close eye on these unusual actions too. According to experts, children suffering from autism often repeat the same actions again and again. This includes moving your hands unnecessarily, constantly rocking your body, or playing with the same toy in the same way for hours on end. When is it time to see a doctor? If parents notice any of the above mentioned symptoms or unusual changes in their child’s behavior or development, instead of panicking, they should immediately contact a child neurologist or pediatrician. With the help of early identification and proper behavioral therapy, the child’s condition can be improved to a great extent.