Signs of Autism

The signs of autism can vary dramatically. Just remember - the symptoms of autism look different for each person.

• Children diagnosed with autism usually do not show all the characteristics of autism.
• Children who DO NOT have autism can show some characteristics of autism.

That is why it is crucial to speak to your family doctor or pediatrician if you see any of the early signs of autism.

Signs of autism from birth up to 3 months:

• Not react to loud sounds or silly sounds from a parent or caregiver.
• Little to no eye contact.
• Few to no big smiles or happy expressions.
• Not following objects or toys with their eyes.
• Getting fussy with new fabric textures (clothing, blankets, etc).

Signs of autism at 6 months:

• Little to no eye contact (my child does not look me in the eyes).
• Does not copy facial features (such as smiling and frowning). 
• Little to no reaction during gameplay (no interest or reaction in games such as peek-a-boo).
• Few to no big smiles or happy expressions.
• Little to no exploring new toys or tactile sensations. 
• Little to no interest in new items and new people (babies at this age will stare and be fascinated with new people and things).

Signs of autism at 9 months:

• Does not respond to their name
• No copying of basic sounds.
• Makes little eye contact and/or shares focus with parent or caregiver.
• Little or no back-and-forth sharing of sounds.
• Little to no smiles or other typical facial expressions.
•  May respond to situations with facial expressions that are inappropriate for the situation.
• Little to no babbling sounds.

Signs of autism at 12 months (1 year):

• Little to no babbling sounds.
• Little to no vocal words or phrases (typically children can say 1-3 words and copy what others say)
• Little or no back-and-forth gestures (pointing, reaching, waving, etc)
• Does not respond to their name.
• May exhibit not like being held, hugged, or touched by others.

Signs of autism at 18 months:

• Very few or no words.
• Does not attempt to gain a parent or caregiver's attention.
• More interested in objects instead of people.
• Shows unusual ways of moving their hands, arms, fingers, legs, or toes.
• Excessive interest in certain objects.
• Unusual play or doing the same motor movement with an object for long periods of time.

Signs of autism at 2 years old:

• Very few meaningful two-word phrases.
• May get upset if they do not like a certain taste, smell, or sound.
• Repetitive movements (flapping their hands, flicking their fingers, or rocking their body).

I am worried my child has autism - What do I do?

If you are concerned, get an autism screening by a healthcare provider. After screening for autism, your provider will then help you through the process of completing an evaluation for autism. This evaluation will provide you with a diagnosis, assessment results, and a bazoodle of resources.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:

• 1 in How Many People Have Autism?
• What Causes Autism?
• Autism Screening: What Is It, And What The Process Looks Like
• Learn The Signs. Act Early (CDC.gov)

Need more resources?

Here at the LMAA (Learnmoreaboutautism.com), we provide you with tons of resources for autism. For more insight into autism interventions and professional and parent supports, visit our sister site, Behaviorally Balanced.