Learn the Signs of Autism

Autism is a diagnosis that is made when a child is Early signs of autism vary in age and intensity. In their first months, some babies show signs. Others show signs of behavior as early as age 2 or 3.

Not every child with autism exhibits all of the symptoms. Many children who do not have autism exhibit a few of these behaviors. That is why professional assessment is so important.

The signs and symptoms listed below may indicate that your child is at risk for an autism spectrum disorder. If your child exhibits any of the following symptoms, seek immediate medical attention from your pediatrician or family doctor:

By six months

• There are few, if any, large smiles or other warm, joyful, and engaging expressions.
• Eye contact is limited or absent.

By nine months

• There is little or no sharing of sounds, smiles, or other facial expressions back and forth.

By a year

• There isn't much babbling, if any at all.
• There are few or no reciprocal gestures such as pointing, showing, reaching, or waving.
• There was little or no response to the name.

By 16 months

• There are very few or no words. 

By two years

• There are few, if any, two-word phrases that are meaningful (not including imitating or repeating) .
• There are very few or no words. 

Anyone, regardless of their age

• Speech, babbling, or social skills previously acquired are might be lost.
• Eye contact is avoided.
• A strong desire to be alone.
• Being unable to comprehend the emotions of others
• Language acquisition is delayed.
• Words or phrases are repeated repeatedly (echolalia)
• Minor changes in routine or environment can cause resistance.
• Interests restricted
• Behaviors that are repeated (flapping, rocking, spinning, etc.)
• Sounds, smells, tastes, textures, lights, and/or colors elicit unusual and intense reactions.