Side glancing, the act of viewing objects or people from the corner of one’s eyes, is a behavior often observed in young children. It is a common concern for many parents, who might wonder if it always points to a specific developmental condition. However, side glancing is not exclusively indicative of autism, and many factors can contribute to its occurrence. This article aims to clarify the various reasons behind this behavior.
Understanding Side Glancing
Side glancing involves orienting the head and body in one direction while shifting the eyes to observe something in the periphery of vision. This differs from direct eye contact, where the eyes are centrally focused on an object or person. In infants and toddlers, this behavior might appear as a child turning their head partially away from an item but still looking at it with the edge of their visual field. It can be seen when a child examines a toy closely, or when they are looking at lights or patterns.
Common Reasons for Side Glancing
Many typically developing children engage in side glancing as part of their normal development. It often serves as visual exploration, allowing a child to gain a different perspective on objects or surroundings. Children might use peripheral vision to filter overwhelming visual input, especially in environments with many colors, shapes, or movements. This behavior can also be a form of sensory processing, where a child tests their vision or manages sensitivity to light.
Curiosity also drives side glancing, as a child experiments with how objects appear from different angles. It can be a natural way for children to self-regulate or express emotions. In some instances, side glancing may signal an underlying visual issue, such as an undiagnosed problem with visual acuity or convergence, where turning the head helps the child see more clearly.
Side Glancing and Autism
While side glancing is a common behavior in many children, it can also be associated with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). In the context of autism, side glancing often presents as part of a broader pattern of repetitive behaviors, sometimes referred to as “visual stimming.” For individuals with autism, this behavior may function as a coping mechanism to manage sensory overload or anxiety, allowing them to filter information or focus on specific details.
Autistic individuals may use side glancing to reduce the intensity of direct eye contact, which can be overwhelming or distressing for them. It might also be a way to process visual information differently, as their visual attention can be drawn to specific details rather than overarching social cues. The significance of side glancing in autism is found in its context, frequency, intensity, and its presence alongside other characteristics of ASD, rather than as a standalone indicator.
When to Seek Professional Guidance
Parents should consider consulting a healthcare professional if side glancing is persistent, occurs frequently, or appears to interfere with a child’s daily activities. This is especially true if the behavior is accompanied by other developmental concerns. Such concerns might include delays in speech or language development, a lack of social engagement, or the presence of other repetitive behaviors like hand-flapping or toe-walking.
A professional evaluation can help determine if the side glancing is simply a phase of typical development or if it is part of a broader developmental pattern that may require support. Early intervention is beneficial when developmental concerns arise, allowing for tailored strategies to support the child’s needs.