Early signs of autism

Child with the autism disorder covering ears from external noises

Early signs of autism spectrum disorder often manifest in the first two years of life, primarily within the domains of social communication and behavior. Parents and caregivers may observe that an infant shows limited eye contact, does not respond consistently to their own name by 12 months, or rarely uses gestures like pointing or waving to communicate needs and interests. A notable sign is a lack of shared enjoyment; the child may not bring objects to show a parent or engage in simple back-and-forth social games. Additionally, delays in spoken language or the use of unusual speech patterns, such as repeating phrases without apparent meaning, are common early indicators according to developmental surveillance guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Beyond social communication, specific behavioral patterns can also signal autism. These include an intense and focused interest in particular objects or parts of objects, such as spinning the wheels of a toy car repeatedly rather than playing with the car itself. Another key sign is a pronounced need for routine and sameness, where even minor changes in schedule or environment lead to significant distress. Sensory differences are also prevalent, where a child may display extreme reactions to everyday sounds, textures, or lights, or conversely, seem to seek out intense sensory input. The National Institute of Mental Health notes that these behaviors reflect differences in how the child processes information from their environment.

It is crucial to understand that these signs exist on a spectrum. A child may exhibit only a few of these behaviors, or they may be more subtle, particularly in girls. The presence of one or two signs does not necessarily mean a child is autistic, but a consistent pattern warrants professional evaluation. Developmental screening at 18 and 24 months is a standard recommendation. If concerns arise, seeking an assessment from a developmental pediatrician or child psychologist is the most important step, as early identification opens the door to supportive services that can foster a child's development and help families build effective communication and connection.