Early Signs of Autism in Toddlers
Early Signs of Autism in Toddlers
As a parent, you’re always watching your child grow and develop, celebrating every new milestone and eagerly awaiting the next one. But sometimes, you might notice behaviors that don’t seem typical, or you might feel a nagging worry in the back of your mind. If you’re concerned about autism in your toddler, you’re not alone. Many parents have been in your shoes, wondering if their child’s behaviors are just a quirk or something more. The good news is that understanding the early signs of autism in toddlers can help you seek support and interventions early, making a world of difference for your child’s development. Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a developmental condition that affects how a person communicates, interacts with others, and experiences the world. Because autism is a spectrum, the signs can look different in every child. However, there are some common early signs that can help you recognize if your toddler might be showing traits associated with autism.
Communication Delays
One of the most common early signs of autism in toddlers is a delay in communication skills. While all children develop at their own pace, you might notice that your child isn’t meeting some of the typical language milestones. For example, a toddler with autism might not babble or make sounds by 12 months or might not say single words by 16 months. They may also have difficulty understanding language or responding to their name. It’s also possible that a child with autism might develop language skills on time but later lose them. This regression can be a particularly concerning sign for parents, as it often comes unexpectedly. Additionally, toddlers with autism may not use gestures like pointing or waving, which are important for early communication and social engagement.
Lack of Eye Contact and Social Interaction
Another early sign of autism is a lack of eye contact and reduced interest in social interaction. While toddlers are naturally curious and interested in the people around them, a child with autism might not seek out the same social engagement. They may not smile back when someone smiles at them, avoid making eye contact, or seem uninterested in playing with others. You might also notice that your child does not imitate actions or facial expressions, which is a normal part of early development. For example, they might not try to copy clapping, waving, or making funny faces. This lack of social engagement can make it more challenging for them to connect with others and learn social cues naturally.
Repetitive Behaviors and Restricted Interests
Repetitive behaviors are another hallmark of autism in toddlers. These behaviors can include hand-flapping, rocking, spinning, or repeating the same phrases over and over. While some repetitive behaviors are common in all toddlers (think about the phase where they watch the same show repeatedly), the difference with autism is that these behaviors can be more intense and persistent, and the child may become upset if they are interrupted. Restricted interests can also be an early sign. For example, a child with autism might focus intensely on a specific topic, toy, or activity to the exclusion of others. They may become fascinated with spinning objects, lining up toys in a certain order, or obsessing over a particular subject. These interests can be all-consuming and may not align with the child's developmental level.
Sensory Sensitivities
Many toddlers with autism have unique responses to sensory input, which can be another early sign of autism. Sensory sensitivities can manifest in several ways — a child may be overly sensitive to sounds, lights, textures, or smells. For instance, they might cover their ears at loud noises, become distressed by bright lights, or refuse certain foods because of their texture. On the flip side, some children with autism may seek out certain sensory experiences, like spinning around, touching different surfaces, or watching objects move repetitively. Understanding your child’s sensory profile can help you create an environment that feels safe and comforting for them.
Difficulty with Joint Attention
Joint attention is the shared focus of two individuals on an object, which is a critical skill for learning and communication. By around 9 to 12 months, most toddlers will point to show something interesting, follow a parent’s gaze, or look back and forth between an object and a person. However, toddlers with autism often have difficulty with joint attention. They might not point to share their interests or follow your gaze to see what you’re looking at. This challenge can make it harder for them to learn from others and participate in shared experiences, like reading a book or playing a game. If your child rarely looks at things you point out or doesn’t seem interested in showing you things, it could be an early sign of autism.
Trust Your Instincts and Seek Support
If you notice any of these early signs of autism in your toddler, it’s important to trust your instincts. No one knows your child better than you do, and if something feels off, it’s worth discussing with a healthcare professional. Early diagnosis and intervention are crucial for helping children with autism develop communication, social, and coping skills that will benefit them throughout their lives.
Finding the Right Support with Linden Neuropsychological Services
At Linden Neuropsychological Services, we understand that discovering your child may have developmental challenges can feel overwhelming and, at times, frightening. But you’re not alone — we’re here to help. We provide comprehensive support for children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and other neurological conditions, focusing on empowering children to lead fulfilling and rewarding lives. Our team collaborates closely with you and your child, using innovative interventions and specialized approaches to bring about positive changes. Whether you need help with academic planning, developing social skills, or navigating daily challenges, we’re here to support you through every step. Reach out to us today to learn more about how we can assist your child and bring you peace of mind.
