The prevalence of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) among pre-school children has notably increased, influenced by broader diagnostic criteria, heightened awareness, and social factors. Changes such as the integration of Asperger's syndrome into the autism spectrum and increased vigilance have led to more diagnoses, with current estimates around 1 in 54 children globally. However, diagnosing autism in multilingual or migrant children presents challenges due to language barriers and cultural differences, which can delay or complicate assessments. Early intervention remains critical, as it significantly improves communication, social skills, and cognitive development. Speech and language therapists play a vital role in supporting these children, especially in multilingual contexts. To ensure accurate diagnosis and effective support, healthcare providers need training in cultural competency, and community outreach programs must educate families to promote early detection and reduce stigma. Addressing these factors is essential to support autistic children across diverse linguistic and cultural backgrounds.
