Autism is a complex neurological and developmental disorder that can affect socialization and range in severity from person to person. According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), one in 44 children is on the autistic spectrum today. While there is no explained cause for autism yet, experts generally believe that it results from environmental and genetic factors, such as premature birth, low birth weight, delivery complications, geriatric pregnancies, etc. Developmental milestones in children To be able to recognize the early warning signs of autism in children, it is important to know the important developmental milestones they need to achieve by a certain age. According to the CDC, these are the milestones that most children between the age of six months to four years tend to achieve: By 6 months, children generally begin to respond to their own name, respond to people’s emotions, and often seem happy, copy sounds, and enjoy playing with others, especially their parents. By the time children are 12 months old, they are generally able to use simple gestures such as shaking their head “no” or waving at others, saying simple words like “mama” and “dada,” playing games like peek-a-boo, and responding to simple spoken requests.

Parents and caregivers play an important role in children’s lives by helping them cope with emotions and manage behavior. This is because children often emulate the adults around them. The kind of care that children receive plays a functional role in their development and how they interact with others. Certain situations at home, such as neglect, can impact a child’s behavior. Some common behavioral issues and warning signs that point toward child neglect are discussed below: 1. Frequent emotional outbursts Children can often be irritable in certain situations. However, it is not the same reaction as that of those who have been neglected. It is natural for children to get cranky when they cannot express what’s bothering them. That said, children who face neglect from their parents or caregivers can become volatile and struggle to regulate their emotions. They might take out their anger on teachers, friends, and peers. Children who are neglected may also find it difficult to connect with their peers and communicate effectively.  2. Absenteeism or drop in academic performance Emotionally neglected children might also be frequently absent from school. Or, they might have a hard time trying to pay attention and focus in school. This could be due to a lack of a proper sleep schedule.

Eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) is a relatively rare, chronic condition that can affect children. It’s characterized by inflammation of the esophagus, often in response to allergens or other triggers. While EoE can be challenging to diagnose, recognizing early signs is essential for timely intervention and effective management. Here is a comprehensive guide to better understanding the common signs of eosinophilic esophagitis in children, providing an understanding of this condition for parents and caregivers. What it is Eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) is a chronic inflammatory condition primarily affecting the esophagus, the tube carrying food from the mouth to the stomach. In individuals with EoE, the esophageal tissue becomes infiltrated with eosinophils, a type of white blood cell that plays a role in allergic reactions and immune responses. Eosinophils in the esophagus cause inflammation, leading to uncomfortable and potentially severe symptoms. While the exact cause of EoE remains unclear, it is believed to be related to genetic factors, environmental triggers, and allergies. Allergens such as pollen, certain foods, or airborne allergens may contribute to the development or exacerbation of EoE. Following are the common signs of eosinophilic esophagitis in children: Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia) One of the hallmark signs of EoE in children is difficulty swallowing, known as dysphagia.