Question
My child is two years old and has a delayed language development. Is it possible that they have autism?
Answer
Autism, also known as autism spectrum disorder, is a neurological developmental disorder characterized by abnormal social interaction and communication skills, as well as limited and repetitive behaviors. In two-year-olds, early signs of autism may include a lack of interest in the outside world, a lack of eye contact, reluctance to participate in social interaction, weak imitation skills, lack of cooperation and imagination, and unwillingness to imitate or respond to others’ words. The child may experience delayed language development or unclear pronunciation when speaking, or struggle to express themselves clearly. If you are concerned about your child’s development, it is advisable to consult a pediatrician or a child neurologist for their opinion.