Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)
What Is Autism?
Understanding Autism
Autism, also called Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), is a lifelong developmental difference that can affect how a person communicates, interacts, learns and experiences the world.
Autism is a spectrum, which means every child is different. Characteristics, strengths and support needs can vary, including differences in communication, social interaction, routines, learning and sensory experiences.
Common Signs of Autism
Autism can look different for every child. Parents may notice differences in communication, social interaction, play, behaviour or sensory responses.
Possible signs include:
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Limited or inconsistent response to their name
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Using few gestures, such as pointing or waving
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Delayed speech, limited language or repeating words and phrases
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Difficulty with back-and-forth conversation or shared play
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Repetitive movements or playing with objects in the same way
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A strong preference for routines and difficulty with changes
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Highly focused interests
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Being more or less sensitive to sounds, lights, textures, smells or tastes
These signs do not necessarily mean that a child is autistic. A qualified healthcare professional can assess the child’s development. If a child loses skills they previously used, parents should seek professional advice promptly.
Understanding Autism and Assessment
What We Know About Autism
Autism is related to differences in brain development. There is no single known cause, and several genetic and other factors may contribute. Autism is not caused by parenting or vaccines.
What Should Parents Do?
01 Record What You Notice
Write down any differences you notice in communication, interaction, play, routines or sensory responses.
04 Ask About Assessment
Ask whether an autism, developmental, hearing or other assessment may be appropriate.
02 Track Patterns
Note when and where these differences appear, including at home, school or in social settings.
05 Gather Previous Reports
Bring any previous medical, school or therapy reports to the appointment.
03 Speak With a Professional
Discuss your concerns with your child’s paediatrician or another qualified healthcare professional.
06 Explore Early Support
Ask about early intervention and developmental or behavioural support while further assessment is in progress.
How TLC Can Support Children With Autism
ABA and Early Intervention
Depending on the child’s needs, TLC may recommend individual or group-based ABA Therapy and early intervention support. Goals are planned around the child’s current abilities, priorities and pace of learning.
Everyday Skills and Independence
Programmes may support following routines and instructions, self-care, flexibility, learning readiness and greater independence in daily activities.
Communication and Social Skills
Support may focus on functional communication, shared attention, turn-taking, play and participating with other people in everyday situations.
Support Across Settings
TLC can help families practise useful skills across home, school and community settings. Support can also work alongside medical care, Speech Therapy, Occupational Therapy or other services recommended by qualified professionals.
Starting With an Initial Consultation
All service enquiries begin with an initial consultation. This gives the TLC team time to understand the family’s concerns, the child’s current development and any previous assessments or support.
After the consultation, the team can explain whether ABA Therapy, early intervention or other support may be suitable and what information or programme assessment may be needed.
Book an Initial Consultation
If you are concerned about your child’s development, speak with the TLC team. We can talk through your concerns, explain how ABA Therapy or early intervention may help and let you know what the next step would be.
Book an initial consultation with TLC in Bandar Sri Damansara or Petaling Jaya.