Link April 2018 Volume 27 Issue 2 | Page 33

feature which is repeating others’ speech or saying back what they watched on television, and they use it as a form of communication.” She said sensory challenges were another sign – such as not liking water dropping on their head in the shower, not liking tags on the back of clothing, or not wanting to take off their shoes to walk on the grass. Ms Karavolos said for parents who suspect their child has autism, it can be a very stressful time. “People are going to feel overwhelmed, it can be an emotional time, and you want to be able to make factual, informed decisions,” she said. “Knowing where to start can be a challenge for many people but there are pathways for help. “Autism SA has an information line (1300 AUTISM) which is a great place to start. For a child, you can go to a paediatrician, or for an adult you can go to your general practitioner. “The process people would Autism SA Ch