Your child with Down syndrome may have autism if he or she: 

• Does not make eye contact with others
• —Is nonverbal, makes unusual vocalizations, says words without actual intent, repetitive speech
• Stops using speech, signs, or other means of communication
• Seems happiest playing alone
• Exhibits inappropriate laughing or giggling
• Lacks imaginative play, prefers repetitive play with objects
• Insists on sameness and routine, has great difficulty with transitions
• —Has difficulty understanding gestures and does not use gestures to communicate, e.g. pointing
• Shows no real fear of dangers
• Appears to be insensitive to pain
• May not want to cuddle or hug
• —Has eating problems– limited foods, textures, etc.
• —Has sleeping problems
• —Exhibits repetitive motions – flapping, twirling, tics, rocking, head shaking, spinning, twisting the hands at the wrist
• Exhibits sustained odd play and inappropriate attachment to objects
• —Exhibits self-stimulating behaviors (“stimming”)

Many of these behaviors are normal for children with Down syndrome at certain points of development. However, when these behaviors become predictable, extreme, or resistant to change, your child may benefit from a thorough evaluation.  If you feel an evaluation is in order, observe closely, take notes, and arm yourself with current information. When seeking an evaluation, be sure to ask if the provider has experience with evaluating autism in a person/child with Down syndrome.  Many families seek an appointment with an AUCD center, a developmental pediatrician, or a Down syndrome clinic — and others have been able to obtain an educational diagnosis of autism from their school system.

The Association of University Centers on Disabilities (AUCD) may be a great place to start.

Autism Speaks has compiled many resources to help recognize the signs of DS-ASD and resources for families and professtionals.

When Down Syndrome and Autism Intersect offers a thorough examination of the unique profile of a Down Syndrome-Autism Spectrum Disorder (DS-ASD) diagnosis and best practices for screening, treatment, and caretaking through the lifespan. This one-stop resource, the first of its kind, will greatly benefit families whose child is already diagnosed, and also those who suspect something more than Down syndrome. Professionals, too, will find information on how to distinguish DS-ASD from a diagnosis of just Down syndrome, and guidance on providing services for children and adults.

Down Syndrome- Autism Connection’s goal is to ensure that families, teachers, and healthcare providers receive the education and support they need — with the ultimate goal being that children and adults with DS-ASD will receive the understanding, education, medical care, and opportunities they so greatly deserve.

Interactive Autism Network talks with George T. Capone, M.D., director of the Down Syndrome Clinic at the Kennedy Krieger Institute in Baltimore, Maryland, and explains how the combination of these conditions can affect children, and how they can be treated.