Key Points:

Symptoms of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) can appear as early as infancy, though the signs are often subtle and develop gradually.
Early detection of ASD is essential for improving long-term outcomes through early intervention.
ASD symptoms vary greatly, but there are common early indicators that parents can watch for.

As a parent, noticing unusual behaviors in your child can be worrying. One of the most concerning challenges for parents is understanding when symptoms of ASD first appear. One example of an early sign of autism in children is communication problems, with up to 30% of children with ASD being minimally verbal.

While early signs of ASD can be subtle and might not always be immediately recognized, identifying these symptoms early can significantly improve a child’s development and allow for early intervention, which is crucial.

In this article, we’ll explore the early signs of ASD and provide helpful information about what parents should look for as their child develops. Recognizing these signs, even in infancy, can lead to a timely diagnosis and access to therapies that can greatly improve outcomes.

When Do Symptoms of ASD Usually Appear?

Symptoms of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) typically become noticeable between the ages of 18 months and 2 years. However, signs can be observed even earlier in some cases, and the severity can vary widely among individuals. Early signs include delays in speech development, lack of social interest, and repetitive behaviors.

During the first year, parents may notice that their child doesn’t respond to their name, avoids eye contact, or doesn’t engage in typical social behaviors like smiling back or making sounds. These early signs are subtle but are key indicators that something may not be developing typically. To better understand these signs and how they relate to different forms of autism, check out our article on “Types of Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) and Their Variants.”

As the child grows older, more distinct behaviors may appear, such as an inability to speak or difficulty with basic social interactions. It’s important to understand that not all children with autism display all symptoms, and the severity of symptoms can vary widely.

Early Signs of Autism Spectrum Disorder

If you suspect your child might have ASD, knowing the early signs can help you address the situation sooner. The early signs of autism can sometimes be difficult to identify, as children develop at different rates. However, there are some common behaviors and characteristics that are frequently seen in children with ASD.

1. Communication Difficulties

Children with autism often show early signs of communication delays, which can be one of the most prominent indicators of the disorder. Symptoms can include:

Lack of babbling or cooing: Infants with autism may not make the usual baby sounds like babbling or cooing around 6 months of age.
Delayed speech: By age 2, many children with ASD still haven’t developed basic speech skills. Some children may never speak, while others may have difficulty initiating or maintaining conversations.
Limited gestures or non-verbal communication: Children with autism may avoid or use minimal gestures like pointing, waving, or clapping. They may also not respond when their name is called.

2. Social Interaction Challenges

Another early indicator of autism is difficulty with social engagement. Children with ASD often have trouble understanding social cues and developing typical social bonds. Symptoms can include:

Avoiding eye contact: Children with autism may avoid making eye contact with others or may not look at people when speaking to them.
Limited social interest: Children with autism may not show interest in playing with others or engage in shared activities like pretend play.
Difficulty understanding emotions: A lack of empathy or an inability to understand or respond appropriately to others’ emotions may also be present.

3. Repetitive Behaviors and Restricted Interests

Repetitive behaviors and narrow interests are key indicators of ASD, and they can often be spotted early in a child’s development. Symptoms can include:

Hand-flapping, rocking, or spinning: Many children with autism engage in repetitive body movements such as hand-flapping, rocking back and forth, or spinning objects. These behaviors may be calming or soothing for the child.
Obsessive interests: Children with autism may fixate on a specific object or activity, often displaying intense interest in one particular thing for extended periods.
Rigidity in routines: Many children with autism become upset when their routines are disrupted. They may insist on certain rituals, such as lining up toys in a specific way, and react with distress if those rituals are interrupted.

Other Possible Symptoms and Warning Signs of Autism

While the signs listed above are some of the most common, it’s also important to be aware of other possible symptoms that may indicate ASD. Some children may show only a few symptoms, while others may display many. These can include:

Sensory Sensitivities

Children with ASD often experience sensory sensitivities that may impact how they interact with their environment. Some children may be overly sensitive to certain sounds, textures, or lights, reacting strongly to things that don’t seem to bother other children.

Meanwhile, other children may not react to pain, temperature, or certain sensory experiences in the typical way.

Delayed Motor Skills

Motor delays are common in children with autism, and they can present in a variety of ways, For instance, some children with ASD may reach milestones like sitting or walking later than typically developing children. Other children with autism may have difficulty with coordination or motor planning, making tasks like throwing a ball, using utensils, or even walking seem difficult.

How to Respond If You Notice Early Signs of ASD

If you suspect your child may be showing signs of autism, it’s essential to seek professional help as soon as possible. Early diagnosis and intervention can significantly improve a child’s development, particularly in areas such as communication, social skills, and behavior. Here is a quick guide of some steps to follow:

Transform Your Child’s Future with Personalized ABA Therapy

One of the most effective treatments for autism is ABA therapy. ABA therapy uses proven techniques to teach new skills, reduce undesirable behaviors, and improve communication abilities. The therapy is tailored to each child, helping them make progress in areas like social skills, daily living, and language.

At Storybook ABA, we specialize in providing ABA therapy to children with ASD in Maryland and Virginia. Our team of professionals is dedicated to creating personalized treatment plans that support your child’s individual needs.

Early Signs and Symptoms of Autism Spectrum Disorder