Early Concerns: A Parent's Voice on Developmental Signs

 "When our child was about 6 months old, we saw that they weren't making eye contact or responding to our voices like the others were doing. It was too soon for a diagnosis, but something in our gut made us pay close attention. Early intervention made all the difference."

— A Concerned Parent



Premature Birth and Autism: What the Science Says


Premature birth, particularly prior to 37 weeks, is associated with an increased risk of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Very premature babies (prior to 32 weeks) might be at greater risk of developmental delays in certain domains such as communication, sensory regulation, and social interaction.


This heightened risk is partly explained by the way that premature birth can disrupt important brain development late in pregnancy. Nonetheless, not all premature infants develop autism, and many continue to achieve developmental milestones with or without assistance.


Most critical is early observation and intervention. Parents who sense something is different — even during the initial few months — should not wait to bring this to the attention of a pediatrician or developmental specialist.


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