Early Signs of Autism in Children
Recognizing early signs of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is crucial for timely intervention and support. While each child develops at their own pace, there are certain milestones that parents should look out for as red flags indicating the need for further evaluation.
6 Months
By six months of age, babies typically begin to engage socially with others through eye contact and smiling. If your baby shows little or no eye contact, doesn’t smile back at you, or seems uninterested in people around them, these could be early signs of autism.
12 Months
Around 12 months old, children usually start to babble and make simple sounds like “mama” or “dada.” They also begin to wave goodbye and point at objects they’re interested in. If your child shows little interest in making eye contact or sharing smiles, doesn’t respond when their name is called, and avoids waving or pointing, these could be red flags for autism.
18 Months
At 18 months, toddlers typically start to use single words like “milk” or “ball,” and they often point at objects of interest. They may also engage in pretend play, such as feeding a doll. If your child does not babble much, uses few gestures (e.g., pointing), shows little response to their name, avoids social interaction, and has trouble with back-and-forth communication, these signs could suggest autism.
2 Years
By two years old, many children have a vocabulary of 50 words or more and can use simple phrases. They also show interest in other kids and enjoy playing games like peek-a-boo. If your child has limited speech, doesn’t seem to understand simple instructions, avoids social interactions, and exhibits repetitive behaviors (e.g., lining up toys), these could be indicators of autism.
3 Years and Beyond
In the preschool years, children continue to develop their communication skills and social understanding. If your child still has significant delays in speech, struggles with making friends, engages in repetitive behaviors (such as rocking or flapping hands), shows extreme resistance to changes in routine, and has unusual sensory responses (e.g., over- or under-sensitivity to sounds, textures, etc.), these are signs that warrant a professional evaluation.
When to Get Evaluated
If you notice any of the above red flags, it’s important not to delay seeking an evaluation. Early intervention can make a significant difference in improving outcomes for children with autism. Speak to your child’s pediatrician about your concerns, and ask them to refer you to a specialist who can provide a comprehensive assessment.
Practical Advice for Parents
- Keep Track of Your Child’s Milestones: Use a journal or app to document your child’s developmental milestones, including when they reach certain communication and social skills. This information can be helpful during evaluations.
- Create Opportunities for Social Interaction: Even if your child doesn’t initiate play with others, you can set up structured opportunities for them to interact in a controlled environment (e.g., small groups or one-on-one playdates).
- Encourage Communication: Use simple language and gestures to encourage back-and-forth communication. For example, if your child points at something, respond with “You want the ball,” then hand it over.
- Sensory Sensitivity Considerations: If your child shows sensitivity to sensory input (e.g., loud noises or certain textures), try to identify and reduce these triggers while exploring ways to help them cope in environments where exposure is necessary.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Q: How do I know if my child’s behavior is typical or a sign of autism?
A: While every child develops differently, certain behaviors like lack of eye contact, delayed speech, and repetitive actions can be red flags. If you’re unsure, discuss your concerns with your pediatrician who can provide guidance on next steps.
- Q: Is it possible for my child to have autism even if they meet some milestones?
A: Yes, children with ASD often meet certain developmental milestones but may struggle in specific areas like social communication and flexibility. A comprehensive evaluation by a specialist will provide clarity.
- Q: What happens during an autism evaluation?
A: During an evaluation, professionals such as psychologists or pediatric neurologists observe your child’s behavior, review developmental history, and may administer standardized tests to assess social interaction, communication skills, and cognitive abilities. This helps in determining the presence of ASD.
Written by the Pediatric Behavior editorial team. Reviewed by board-certified behavior analysts.