Early Signs of Autism in Young Children: A Guide for Parents
Noticing that your child is developing differently can be concerning for any parent. When it comes to autism, early detection is key. Recognizing the early signs of autism in toddlers and young children is the first step toward getting the right support. This guide provides a clear list of behaviors to watch for and helps you understand when to seek a professional evaluation.
Key Behaviors to Observe
While every child develops at their own pace, there are some developmental milestones that can serve as a guide. If you notice your child consistently missing these milestones, it may be a good idea to speak with a professional.
Social & Emotional Skills:
Lack of a social smile by 6 months.
No back-and-forth sharing of sounds, smiles, or facial expressions by 9 months.
Doesn’t respond to their name by 12 months.
Avoids eye contact.
Doesn’t use gestures like waving, reaching, or pointing to show things.
Communication & Language Skills:
Doesn’t babble or make a wide variety of sounds by 12 months.
No single words by 16 months.
Doesn’t say two-word phrases on their own by 24 months.
Loss of previously learned speech or social skills.
Repetitive Behaviors:
Repeatedly lines up toys or other objects.
Has an intense need for routine and becomes very upset by small changes.
Displays repetitive motions like flapping hands, rocking, or spinning.
Shows unusual sensitivity to sounds, textures, or lights.
When to Seek an Evaluation
Observing these behaviors doesn’t automatically mean your child has autism. However, they are early warning signs that warrant a professional opinion. Trust your parental instinct. If you have concerns, it’s best to act quickly.
The ideal time to get a child autism evaluation is as soon as you notice a red flag. Pediatricians can perform initial screenings, and if they share your concerns, they will recommend a specialist for a comprehensive evaluation. This may include a developmental pediatrician, a child psychologist, or a team specializing in autism diagnosis.
Remember, seeking an evaluation isn’t about labeling your child; it’s about gaining a deeper understanding of their needs and accessing the support and early intervention that can make a huge difference in their development and quality of life.
Your Next Step to Finding Answers
At Reflection Services, we understand that navigating a child’s development can be overwhelming. We specialize in comprehensive assessments and provide personalized ABA therapy and other support services for children with developmental needs.
Contact Reflection Services today to schedule a consultation. Our team is here to support your family every step of the way.
