Imagine observing your child as they walk around the home. They can be pointing at something new, giggling, or babble.
But what if they’re not?
What happens if you call their name and they don’t look? What if, even when playing, they avoid making eye contact?
Many parents take note of these occasions. They wonder quietly, “Could it be something more?”
Let’s discuss how to identify autism in children at an early age. As a kind of guidance, not a stressful checklist. Consider it similar to having a coffee conversation with another mother. You are not alone in your curiosity. Several families have asked the same question: how to recognize early signs of autism in children? Knowledge has found them support, clarity, and hope.
What Is Autism?
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurological condition. It affects a person’s social interactions and play. Most apparent is a communication delay style that deviates from what’s typical.
Because each child experiences autism differently, this condition is referred to as a spectrum. In early symptoms of autism, kids may be quiet and reserved. Others could talk first yet find it difficult to form friendships. While some people pick up skills quickly, others require more time to master them.
Detection of early symptoms of autism is challenging because of this variability, particularly in toddlers. Finding symptoms early is important, though. Children gain more from help before the age of three, according to research, and it’s for this reason that it’s important to know what to look for early on.
Recognizing the Early Indications
“Is this just a phase or something more?” you might wonder. It’s a wise question. Although each child grows differently, there are some early signs of autism in children that are easier to spot. This is particularly true between the ages of 12 and 24 months.
One common sign is delayed communication. Maybe your child isn’t babbling or pointing. Maybe they don’t wave goodbye or reach to be picked up. These are some of the first ways babies connect with parents.
You could also see that they like to play by themselves. When you call their name, they could not look at your face or answer. That’s a clue worth watching.
The way they manage routines is another clue. If you make a tiny alteration, like moving a toy or changing the book you read before bed, do they become upset? Autism-related children frequently rely on sameness. A small change can feel big to them.
Then there’s how they play. Instead of rolling a toy car, they might just spin the wheels. Some children line up objects over and over. Others develop close bonds with commonplace objects like keys or spoons. Autism may be indicated by these behaviors.
Speech, Sounds, and Silence
Speech delays can be a key signal. Some kids start talking later and catch up fine. But if a delay happens with other signs, it could mean more.
Sometimes, a child says a few words, then stops. This is known as autism regression. Imagine hearing “mama” one week, then nothing for months. That kind of change can worry any parent.
You might also notice how your child uses their voice. Some kids repeat sounds or phrases again and again. Others have strange voices or sing-song tones that initially seem cute. However, it might be a red flag if it continues or replaces sincere conversation.
The Curious Case of the “Autism Walk”
Have you frequently witnessed your toddler walking on tiptoes? The autism walk is another name for this. It isn’t always an issue. Many toddlers occasionally walk in that manner. But with autism it persists after the age of two. There are other symptoms as well, such as spinning or hand flapping. At this point, it may be worthwhile to investigate.
There might also be more tangible signs as with some kids. They respond intensely to certain textures, loud noises, or bright lights. Pain, heat, and cold don’t seem to bother certain people but children diagnosed with autism frequently exhibit these sensory impairments.
Could Early Signs of Autism in Children Only Be a Phase?
Fantastic question. Many toddler traits, such as shyness or lack of conversation, are natural for a while. For this reason, one sign is insufficient to diagnose autism.
Doctors look for patterns. If signs last a long time, get more intense, or affect your child’s daily life, it may be something more.
Let’s say your toddler avoids eye contact for a week. Then all of a sudden they smile and stare right at you. This might not be an issue, but if you observe several other symptoms, such as delayed speech, it’s time to consult with either a pediatrician or child development specialist.
Bear in mind that the terms autism, autism regression, and autistic spectrum should not be viewed as labels. They shouldn’t limit your child. Consider it a means of discovering what your child requires in order to develop and flourish.
Why Early Help Matters
You might wonder, “If autism doesn’t go away, why get help so early?”
Because early help works.
The brain is growing fast in the first few years. Therapy during this time can boost language, learning, and behavior. It gives your child tools that can help for life.
The first step is a simple developmental screening. If there are signs of autism, your doctor may suggest a full evaluation. This helps create a plan to support your child and your family.
Each Child Is Unique
Not all autistic children behave in the same way. While some are adorable, some are not. Some people struggle with social skills but talk early. Some people communicate in methods other than words.
That’s why early warning indications are important. Believe in your gut feelings. “Don’t worry, they’ll grow out of it,” although friends and relatives may tell you otherwise, you should nonetheless investigate if something seems off.
It is a gift to learn to spot early warning signs. It enables you to identify the support your child might require and ask more insightful questions.
When to Call a Doctor
You should talk to your doctor if your child:
- Doesn’t reply to their name within a year
- Seldom smiles or makes eye contact
- Stops using words they once said
- Doesn’t pretend play (like feeding a doll or playing house)
- Repeats body movements like flapping or rocking
- Focuses on parts of toys or objects instead of the whole
This doesn’t mean your child has autism. But it does mean it’s time to check things out. A doctor or specialist can guide you from there.
You’re Not Alone
Maybe you’re just curious. Maybe you’re concerned. Either way, know this, you’re not the only one asking, “Is this normal?”
Wanting to understand your child better doesn’t make you overprotective. It makes you a loving, present parent.
Learning the early signs of autism isn’t about fear, it’s about awareness. It’s about giving your child the support they need to thrive.
There is help. There is hope. And there are parents everywhere who’ve stood exactly where you’re standing now. At Golden Care Therapy, we walk beside families every day, offering guidance, support, and clinically proven strategies to help children on the spectrum shine.
Take a breath. You don’t need all the answers today. But if your heart says to look a little closer, listen. Your child’s journey is just beginning. Knowing what to look for could make all the difference, and Golden Care Therapy is here when you’re ready. If you’re searching for early autism support in New Jersey, let’s take the next step together. Reach out today to learn more.
