Early Signs of Autism in Infants and Toddlers: What Parents Should Know

As caregivers, we all want to support our children’s growth and development in the best way possible. Recognizing early signs of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) can make a significant impact on your child’s long-term success. Many studies show that the earlier a child receives intervention, the more opportunities they have to build essential communication, social, and behavioral skills. 

Key Takeaways for Recognizing Early Signs of Autism

Autism is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects how children interact, communicate, and engage with the world around them. Autism is a spectrum, meaning every child may experience it differently. While each child develops at their own pace, certain early signs can indicate that an autism evaluation may be beneficial.

Early Signs of Autism in Infants and Toddlers

If you’re wondering whether your child may be showing signs of autism, here are some key developmental differences to look for:

Social Communication and Interaction

• Limited eye contact – Your child may avoid or struggle to maintain eye contact during interactions.
• Reduced response to their name – They may not consistently turn toward you or acknowledge when their name is called.
• Lack of social smiling – Your child may not smile in response to social interactions or display reciprocal smiling.
• Difficulty with joint attention – They may struggle to share attention on objects or events, such as following your gaze or pointing at something interesting.
• Delayed or absent babbling – Your child may not coo, babble, or experiment with vocal sounds as frequently as their peers.

Behavior and Interests

• Repetitive movements – Hand-flapping, rocking, spinning, or other repetitive body movements may be present.
• Restricted interests – Your child may develop an intense focus on specific objects or activities and struggle to shift attention elsewhere.
• Unusual sensory sensitivities – Overreaction to certain textures, sounds, or lights, or seeking out excessive sensory input (such as touching everything or mouthing objects).
• Difficulty with transitions – Changes in routine or switching between activities may lead to distress or frustration.
• Lack of pretend play – Your child may not engage in imaginative play, such as pretending to cook or playing with dolls as if they were real. 

We recommend reviewing the CDC’s recommended milestones for additional behaviors to watch for.

Why Early Identification Matters

Identifying autism at an early stage is key to ensuring that your child receives the right support at the right time. Research shows that early intervention can significantly improve communication, social engagement, and behavior regulation, providing children with the skills they need to navigate daily life. 

At Belay On, we believe in providing parents with the knowledge and resources they need to make informed decisions about their child’s development. If you’ve noticed any of the above signs, speaking with your pediatrician is the first step. A developmental screening or autism evaluation by a qualified professional can help determine the best course of action for your child’s unique needs.

What to Do if You Have Concerns

If you’re concerned about your child’s development, here’s what you can do:

• Trust your instincts – If something doesn’t feel right, don’t wait. Early action leads to the best outcomes.
• Talk to your pediatrician – Share your observations and concerns with your child’s doctor. They can guide you toward the next steps, including developmental screenings.
• Seek a professional evaluation – A specialist, such as a developmental pediatrician, psychologist, or speech therapist, can provide an autism evaluation.
• Explore early intervention services – Therapies like Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), speech therapy, and occupational therapy can help your child build essential skills early on.

Wrapping Up: Recognizing the Early Signs of Autism

Every child develops at their own pace, but if you notice any red flags related to communication, social interactions, or repetitive behaviors, early intervention can make all the difference. By recognizing the early signs of autism and seeking professional guidance, you’re taking an important step toward ensuring that your child has access to the support they need.

At Belay On, we’re committed to helping families navigate autism diagnosis and therapy options with compassion and expertise. If you have questions about ABA therapy or want to learn how early intervention can benefit your child, reach out to us today at 469-423-5658.

FAQs About Early Signs of Autism in Infants and Toddlers