Understanding the developmental milestones of your child is crucial. As parents and caregivers, being aware of the early signs of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is one of the most impactful steps you can take. Early detection allows for timely intervention and support, which can significantly benefit your child’s development.
It’s important to remember that while some children may show signs of autism early in life, others might not exhibit noticeable behaviors until later. It is critical to understand that not all children with autism will display every sign, and some children without autism might show some of these behaviors. This is why professional evaluation is essential for an accurate diagnosis. However, being informed about these potential indicators empowers you to seek timely professional help if needed.
Early Signs of Autism in Babies
Recognizing potential signs of autism in babies can be the first step towards early intervention. Here are some indicators to be aware of in infants:
By 6 Months
- Limited joyful expressions: A noticeable lack of big smiles or other warm, engaging facial expressions that are typically seen in babies this age.
- Reduced eye contact: Infrequent or absent eye contact when interacting with caregivers.
By 9 Months
- Lack of reciprocal communication: Little to no back-and-forth sharing of sounds, smiles, or facial expressions. Babies at this age usually engage in babbling “conversations” and respond to interactions.
Recognizing Autism Signs in Toddlers
As babies grow into toddlers, new developmental milestones emerge. Here are some signs of autism that may become apparent in toddlers:
By 12 Months
- Delayed babbling: Little to no babbling, which is a precursor to speech development.
- Limited use of gestures: Infrequent or absent use of back-and-forth gestures like pointing, showing objects, reaching for things, or waving. These gestures are crucial for communication.
- Lack of response to name: Does not respond to their name being called, or shows very little reaction.
By 16 Months
- Speech delays: Very few or no words spoken. Most toddlers at this age are starting to use single words to communicate.
By 24 Months
- Absence of two-word phrases: Very few or no meaningful, two-word phrases used spontaneously (not just imitating or repeating what they hear). This milestone is significant for language development.
Autism Signs at Any Age
Certain signs of autism can be present at any age. These are not tied to specific developmental milestones but are more general behavioral indicators:
- Regression of skills: Loss of previously acquired speech, babbling, or social skills. This can sometimes occur around 18-24 months.
- Avoiding eye contact: Consistently avoids making eye contact in social interactions.
- Preference for solitude: Shows a persistent preference for being alone and may seem uninterested in interacting with others.
- Difficulty understanding feelings: Appears to have trouble understanding their own feelings or the feelings of others.
- Language delays: Delayed development of spoken language or communication skills.
- Echolalia: Persistent repetition of words or phrases (repeating what they hear rather than using language spontaneously).
- Insistence on sameness: Resistance to minor changes in routines or surroundings; can become upset by changes.
- Restricted interests: Has very narrow and intense interests that may seem unusual.
- Repetitive behaviors: Engages in repetitive body movements such as flapping hands, rocking, or spinning.
- Sensory sensitivities: Unusual and intense reactions to sensory input like sounds, smells, tastes, textures, lights, or colors. May be over- or under-sensitive.
Reliable Autism Diagnosis by Age 2
It’s important to know that autism can be reliably diagnosed by the age of 2 by experienced professionals. The age at which autism is diagnosed can vary, as some children show early signs within the first year of life, while for others, signs may not become apparent until closer to 24 months or later. Some children with ASD may even develop typically until around 18 to 24 months and then experience a plateau or regression in skills.
The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), a leading authority on child health, recommends universal autism screening for all children at 18 and 24 months of age. These screenings are in addition to regular developmental and behavioral screenings during well-child visits at 9, 18, and 30 months. Research supports the reliability of autism diagnoses made by experienced professionals in children as young as two years old. Early screening and diagnosis are crucial for accessing early intervention services, which are most effective when started as early as possible.
What to Do If You Have Concerns
If you have any concerns about your child’s development or suspect they may be showing signs of autism, it is crucial to seek professional advice. Talk to your pediatrician or family doctor about your concerns. They can perform initial screenings and refer you to specialists for comprehensive evaluations if needed. Early intervention can make a significant difference in the lives of children with autism.
Related Resources:
For further information, support, and resources, you can contact the Autism Response Team at Autism Speaks. They can provide guidance, information, and connect you with opportunities and support networks.
