April is Autism Awareness Month. Mercy Pediatric Clinic offers autism screenings, ADHD screenings and behavioral consults in addition to complete Pediatric services for children aged birth to 18. Appointments can be scheduled same day, evening or weekend. Mercy Pediatrics is located in the lower-level of the Coral West building, 2769 Heartland Drive in Coralville.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) define Autism Spectrum Disorders as a "developmental disability that can cause significant social, communication and behavioral challenges."

"I have a real interest in helping and advocating for children with learning disabilities and autism,” said Angela O’Connor, MD, FAAP, pediatrics. “It is important to me to help children and families lead the healthiest lives possible and early diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorders is very important.”

Early signs of Autism may include:

• does not point or look at objects to show interest

• has trouble relating to others, avoids eye contact, unaware when people are talking to them

• does not like talking about feelings, does not want to be held

• repeats or echoes words said to them in place of normal language

• has trouble expressing their needs

• does not play pretend games

• repeats actions over and over

• has trouble adapting when a routine changes

• has unusual reactions to the way things smell, taste, look, feel or sound

• loses skills they once had

To make a screening appointment call Mercy Pediatric Clinic at (319)688-7337 or visit www.mercyiowacity.org/pediatric-clinic for more information.