Identifying autism spectrum disorder (ASD) as early as possible is crucial for ensuring children receive the support and interventions they need to thrive. As parents and caregivers, understanding the early signs of autism and being aware of typical developmental milestones is the first step in this important process. While not every child with autism will exhibit all signs, recognizing clusters of these behaviors can prompt timely professional evaluation.
Early Signs of Autism in Babies
By 6 Months
During the first six months, subtle differences in social interaction can be observed. Key indicators to watch for include:
- Reduced or absent big smiles or warm, engaging expressions: Babies typically respond to interaction with joyful expressions. A lack of these could be an early sign.
- Limited or no eye contact: While babies’ eye contact develops over time, consistently limited eye contact can be an early indicator.
By 9 Months
As babies approach nine months, social reciprocity becomes more apparent. Signs to be aware of include:
- Little to no back-and-forth sharing of sounds, smiles, or facial expressions: Babies at this age usually engage in reciprocal interactions, exchanging smiles and sounds with caregivers. Reduced back-and-forth engagement can be a sign to note.
Early Signs of Autism in Toddlers
By 12 Months
Around their first birthday, toddlers typically reach certain communication milestones. Potential early signs of autism at this age can include:
- Little or no babbling: Babbling is a precursor to speech. Reduced or absent babbling can be a developmental flag.
- Little or no use of back-and-forth gestures: Gestures like pointing, showing, reaching, or waving are important for communication. Limited use of these gestures can be an early sign.
- Little or no response to their name: Most toddlers respond to their name being called. A lack of response could be an indicator.
By 16 Months
By sixteen months, toddlers are usually starting to use words. A key sign to observe is:
- Very few or no words: Delayed language development, specifically a lack of word usage, is a notable sign.
By 24 Months
Approaching two years old, toddlers typically combine words. Watch for:
- Very few or no meaningful, two-word phrases: Beyond simple imitation, the absence of spontaneous two-word phrases can be a sign.
Signs of Autism at Any Age
Some signs of autism are not age-specific and can be observed at any point in a child’s development:
- Loss of previously acquired speech, babbling, or social skills: Regression in skills is a significant indicator requiring prompt attention.
- Avoidance of eye contact: Consistent avoidance, not just occasional, is a sign.
- Persistent preference for solitude: A strong preference for being alone and difficulty engaging with peers.
- Difficulty understanding other people’s feelings: Challenges in recognizing and responding to emotional cues.
- Delayed language development: Speech and language milestones not being met.
- Persistent repetition of words or phrases (echolalia): Repeating words or phrases out of context.
- Resistance to minor changes in routine or surroundings: Distress or difficulty with changes in schedule or environment.
- Restricted interests: Intense focus on a narrow range of topics or activities.
- Repetitive behaviors: Physical movements like flapping, rocking, or spinning.
- Unusual reactions to sensory input: Over- or under-sensitivity to sounds, smells, tastes, textures, lights, and colors.
Earliest Age for Autism Diagnosis
The age at which autism can be reliably diagnosed has become younger thanks to advances in research and screening tools. While the presentation of autism varies, reliable autism diagnosis can be made as early as age 2 by experienced professionals.
The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends universal autism screening for all children at 18 and 24 months of age. Furthermore, developmental and behavioral screenings are recommended during regular well-child visits at 9, 18, and 30 months. These guidelines underscore the importance of proactive screening to facilitate early diagnosis and intervention.
If you have any concerns about your child’s development, it is essential to seek professional advice. Early diagnosis of autism allows children to access therapies and support that can significantly improve their developmental trajectory and quality of life. Contacting your pediatrician or a specialist is a crucial step in addressing any potential developmental concerns.
