As parents, we are the world’s leading experts on our own children. We notice the tiny details: the way they scrunch their nose when they laugh, or how they finally mastered using a spoon. But sometimes, we notice things that cause us to pause. Maybe your toddler isn’t quite talking as much as the other kids at playgroup, or perhaps they seem “in their own world” more often than not.
If you’ve found yourself searching “could my child have autism?” please know that you aren’t alone, and your intuition is a powerful tool. Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a developmental difference in how the brain processes information, particularly regarding social interaction and communication.
Because every child develops at their own pace, it can be hard to tell what is a “typical” delay and what might be a sign of autism. Here is a breakdown of common signs and milestones for children from infancy through age 6.
Early Signs of Autism (By Age)
Autism is a “spectrum,” meaning it looks different in every child. Some children show signs as early as 6 months, while for others, the signs become more apparent as social demands increase in preschool.
6 to 12 Months
At this age, we look primarily at social engagement and responsiveness.
- Limited Eye Contact: Your baby may not look at you consistently during feeding or play.
- Lack of “Social Smiling”: Not smiling back when you smile at them.
- No Response to Name: By 9–12 months, most babies turn when called; a child with autism may seem not to hear you.
- Lack of Gestures: Not waving “bye-bye,” pointing at objects they want, or reaching up to be picked up.
1 to 3 Years (Toddlers)
This is often when language and play behaviors become the focus.
- Speech Delays: No single words by 16 months or two-word phrases by 24 months.
- Loss of Skills: A “regression” where a child stops using words or social gestures they previously had.
- Repetitive Behaviors: Lining up toys instead of playing with them, or “stimming” (flapping hands, rocking, or spinning).
- Intense Interests: A fixation on unusual objects (like the silver trim on a toaster) rather than the toy itself.
- Difficulty with Change: Becoming extremely upset by small changes in routine or the environment.
4 to 6 Years (Preschool/Kindergarten)
Social challenges often become clearer when children interact with peers.
- Social Isolation: Preferring to play alone or “parallel play” (playing near others but not with them).
- Difficulty with “Make-Believe”: A lack of imaginative or pretend play (e.g., pretending to feed a doll).
- Literal Language: They may not understand jokes or sarcasm and might take phrases very literally.
- Sensory Sensitivities: Being overwhelmed by loud noises, the “scratchy” feel of clothing tags, or certain food textures.
Why “Wait and See” Isn’t Always Best
It is very common for well-meaning friends or even some professionals to say, “Don’t worry, they’ll grow out of it,” or “Boys just talk later.” While every child is unique, the current medical consensus is that early intervention is the most effective way to support an autistic child’s development.
The brain is incredibly “plastic” in the first six years of life. Identifying autism early doesn’t change who your child is, it simply gives you the roadmap and resources to help them navigate a world that isn’t always built for their way of thinking.
Important Note: A diagnosis is not a “label” that limits your child. It is a key that opens doors to specialized therapies and educational support that can make a massive difference in their quality of life.
Your Next Steps: The Diagnostic Evaluation
If you have a “gut feeling” or have noticed several of the signs above, the best thing you can do is seek a formal diagnostic evaluation.
You are your child’s best advocate. If you feel your concerns are being dismissed, it is perfectly okay to seek a second opinion. Getting answers—whatever they may be—is the first step toward helping your child thrive.
Ready to get started?
If you’re ready to take the next step for your child, please fill out our form to get started and learn more about our diagnostic evaluation services.
