Autism: recognising the signs in young children.

Autism is an organic disorder affecting several areas of a child's development. Autism is present from birth, or very soon after, but the nature of the disorder can mean that diagnosis is delayed for months for years. Early intervention can improve long-term function and help the families. Babies with autism may display characteristic features of gaze, hearing, social development and play. Nurses working with babies and young children are in a prime position to recognise these characteristics and refer the family for specialised assessment. Learning disabilities may or may not be present in children with autism. Always listen to the parents. They often suspect something is wrong even though they may not be able to be precise.