As a parent, it can be difficult to know whether certain behaviors are simply part of normal development or possible early signs of autism. Because of this, understanding how to recognize the early signs of autism is important, especially since earlier diagnosis and support are associated with better developmental outcomes. At On Target ABA, we’ve seen that when parents are vigilant and informed, their children are more likely to receive the support they need.
Key Takeaways: Early Signs of Autism
- Early signs of autism can appear as early as 6–18 months, often before a formal diagnosis is possible.
- Repetitive behaviors, strong routines, sensory sensitivities, and narrow interests may be early behavioral indicators.
- A pattern of behaviors matters more than a single sign, and not every child with these traits has autism.
- If concerns arise, parents should start with a pediatrician and request a developmental screening.
- Early intervention is strongly associated with improved communication, social skills, and independence outcomes.
How Early Can You See Signs of Autism?
Signs of autism can appear as early as 6 to 18 months of age. One of the challenges of recognizing early autism is that development itself is variable. Children hit milestones at different ages, and some variation is completely normal. But there are certain patterns and red flags that consistently signal a need for further evaluation.
Developmental Milestones at 6 Months
Most babies are smiling socially and making eye contact by six months. Limited or absent social smiling and minimal eye contact may be early indicators worth noting.
Development Milestones at 9 Months
Babies typically share sounds, smiles, and facial expressions back and forth – what’s called joint attention. If your baby isn’t doing this, it’s worth mentioning to your pediatrician.
Developmental Milestones at 12 Months
By twelve months, many babies are babbling and beginning to use gestures such as pointing to show interest, not just to request something. Most also respond to their name when called, and consistent failure to do so can be an early sign worth noting. Simple social gestures like waving “bye-bye” typically start to emerge around this age as well.
At least a handful of words should be present. If your child has no single words by 16 months, speak with your pediatrician.
Developmental Milestones at 24 Months
By this stage, most children begin to use simple two-word phrases on their own, such as “more juice,” “daddy go,” or “no nap,” rather than just repeating what they hear. It’s also important to watch for any regression, such as losing words or social skills they previously had, as this can be a significant red flag at any age.
What Are Early Signs of Autism?
Early signs of autism appear in communication, social interaction, behavior, sensory response, and developmental milestones. These signs don’t confirm a diagnosis on their own, they indicate that an evaluation is worth pursuing. Many children display one or two of these characteristics without having autism. It’s the pattern, the persistence, and the combination of signs that matters most.
Social Communication Signs of Autism in Children
Social communication differences are among the most common and noticeable early signs of autism. Here are some common signs of autism in social communication:
- Limited or inconsistent eye contact
- Doesn’t respond to their name reliably
- Doesn’t point or wave by 12 months
- Doesn’t show you things they find interesting
- Seems to prefer being alone over social interaction
- Difficulty understanding or using facial expressions
Language and Communication Signs of Autism In Infants
Language and communication differences are also common early signs of autism. Here are some of the typical ones:
- Delayed speech development or loss of words previously acquired
- Echolalia, which is repeating words or phrases without apparent meaning (though some echolalia is typical in early development)
- Doesn’t use gestures to communicate (reaching, pointing, waving)
- Seems to use you as a tool rather than a social partner (e.g., places your hand on what they want without looking at you)
Early Behavioral Indicators of Autism
It can sometimes be difficult to distinguish these behaviors from typical childhood variation. Here are some things to look out for that may indicate a pattern worth paying attention to:
- Repetitive movements (hand-flapping, rocking, spinning)
- Strong insistence on sameness and routines, and significant distress when routines are disrupted
- Unusual attachments to specific objects
- Highly specific, narrow interests
- Unusual sensory responses, like seeking intense sensory input or avoiding ordinary textures, sounds, or light
What Should I Do if I’m Concerned My Child Has Autism?
If you’ve noticed the behaviors mentioned above and are concerned your child may have autism, it’s normal to feel overwhelmed. We’ve broken down the steps you can take to move forward with clarity and make the process as easy as possible.
Step 1: Talk to Your Pediatrician
Your first stop is your child’s pediatrician. Describe which signs you’ve noticed in your child, and write down specific behaviors you’ve observed beforehand, as this can help you clearly remember and share important details with the doctor.
Ask for a developmental screening using a validated tool like the M-CHAT-R.
Step 2: Request a Formal Evaluation
A developmental pediatrician, child psychologist, or pediatric neurologist can conduct a comprehensive autism evaluation. These evaluations assess your child’s developmental history, communication, behavior, and adaptive skills.
Step 3: Don’t Wait for the Evaluation to Seek Support
In many areas, the wait for a formal evaluation can be months long. Many states allow children to access early intervention services (for children under three) or ABA therapy with a suspected diagnosis while awaiting formal evaluation. Ask your pediatrician what’s available in your area.
Early Intervention Makes a Real Difference
If you’re a parent noticing these signs, it’s important to recognize the value of what you’ve observed. Many early indicators can be subtle and easy to miss. You’ve taken an important step by paying attention and seeking clarity. From here, the next step is to connect with professionals who can guide you through the process.
Whether you already have a diagnosis or need help obtaining one, we’re here to support you. We guide families through every step of the process, so you’re never navigating it alone. Early support can make a meaningful difference in your child’s progress and long-term outcomes. Reach out to get started.
FAQs on Early Signs of Autism
Is early teething a sign of autism?
Early teething is not a recognized sign of autism. Autism signs mainly affect communication, social interaction, behavior, and sensory responses.
What are early signs of autism in newborns?
Early signs of autism in newborns and young infants may include limited eye contact, reduced response to voices, low social smiling, limited facial expressions, weak interest in caregivers, and unusual sensitivity to sounds or touch. Most autism-related developmental differences become clearer between 6 and 24 months as communication and social behaviors develop.
How early can signs of autism appear?
Signs of autism can appear as early as 6 months of age in some infants. Most children receive autism evaluations between 18 and 24 months because developmental differences become more consistent during the toddler years.
Is early walking a sign of autism?
Early walking alone is not a recognized sign of autism. Some autistic children reach physical milestones early, while others reach them later.