A neurological developmental disorder, autism affects communication as well as social interaction by repetitive and restrictive behaviors. Usually the signs will all be shown before the child's third birthday. The causes of it are abstract and somewhat related to genetic factors but also a number of other things like heavy metals, vaccines, and certain pesticides which are known to interfere with the development of the brain.

The aspects and features of autism can be seen at an early age, as it affects social development early on. For example, babies who have autism are less social at a young age and do not smile or look at people as often as most babies. They respond less when called and usually do not react to social stimuli. For example, they will not make much eye contact and they won't use gestures to express what they are thinking, like pointing or clapping, the way other babies might. When they become a bit older, they also display a lower degree of social understanding, do not really take turns with others, and fail to communicate without words by using gestures and body language. These kids often are more lonely and have a really hard time forming friendships with other people.

Another indicator is problems with communication. Many autism patients have problem developing natural speech and sometimes babies with it might have delayed speech production and talk in the form of babbling or gesturing unusually. As the kids get older, they do not often share their own thoughts and experiences but echo what they hear and repeat things that others say. They may have a hard time with playing pretend and with writing.

And finally repetitive behavior is another major sign of autism. For example, stereotype is a movement like hand flapping or head rolling or body rocking that is done over and over again, and another form is compulsive behavior, which is when a child arranges things in the same order, or in a straight line, or makes patterns with toys or stacks cans. Also, this is related to a need for sameness, so that none of these things are changed and no furniture is moved from its usual place. The child might engage in some ritualistic behavior, as well, such as wanting the same menu and same close so that things stay the same and in a sort of structured order. And self injury is another tendency, such as movements that can hurt the child, like picking the skin, biting the hand, or banging the head.

Treating this is really a personally tailored method of improving the quality of the child's life, by really catering to the child's needs. Families as well as schools are the ones that are most responsible for the child's treatment by helping create an environment that helps the child. Some approaches include applied behavior analysis as well as language and speech therapy, some social skills therapy, and some occupational therapy to help them secure careers and jobs. In the future, ensuring that the future is bright and brilliant.