A nurse assesses a 3-year-old diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder. Which finding is most associated with the child's disorder?

Reasoning: Choice A reason: At the age of 3, reading children's books is not a developmentally expected milestone. Most children are only beginning to identify letters or recognize familiar words. Therefore, an inability to read would not be a diagnostic indicator for Autism Spectrum Disorder or any other developmental delay at this age. Choice B reason: Occasional toileting accidents are developmentally normal for many 3-year-olds, as they are often still in the process of mastering bowel and bladder control. This behavior does not differentiate a child with autism from a neurotypical child who is still navigating the complex stages of potty training. Choice C reason: Repetitive motor movements, known as stereotypies or "stimming," are a hallmark diagnostic criterion for Autism Spectrum Disorder. Continuous rocking for extended periods indicates a preoccupation with rhythmic sensory input and a lack of varied, functional play, which are central characteristics of the social-communication and behavioral deficits in autism. Choice D reason: Crying when separated from a parent is a sign of separation anxiety, which is a common and often healthy developmental stage for 3-year-old children. Children with autism may actually show less distress during separation or demonstrate atypical responses to social cues from their primary caregivers compared to neurotypical peers.