What is autism and what are the first things parents notice? In this guide, we explain 7 early signs—like avoiding eye contact or not playing with others—that might show up in young children. If you’re unsure whether your child’s behavior is typical, this section can help you know what to look for. If you are more interested in ADHD symptoms in adults that often appear as restlessness, poor focus, and impulsive decisions that affect work, relationships, and daily life, take a look at this blog.
Do you just need the basics? Here’s a simple explanation of what autism spectrum disorder is:
🟠 Autism spectrum disorder is a developmental condition that affects how a person communicates, interacts, and behaves.
🟠 Early signs of autism spectrum disorder often include limited eye contact, delayed speech, and repetitive movements.
🟠 The term “spectrum” means symptoms and support needs vary from person to person.
🟠 Children with autism spectrum disorder may react differently to sounds, textures, routines, or social situations.
🟠 Early support from a pediatrician or therapist can help with diagnosis and developmental progress.
What Is Autism Spectrum Disorder
Autism spectrum disorder is a developmental difference that starts early in life. It affects how a person talks, listens, moves, and reacts to the world. Some people with autism don’t speak. Others speak well but miss social cues or repeat phrases. Many have strong preferences for routines or show unusual sensitivity to sounds, smells, or textures.
The word “spectrum” means that autism shows up in different ways. Some people need daily support. Others live independently and manage most things on their own.
Signs of autism often show up before the age of three. You might notice that your child doesn’t look when called, avoids eye contact, or doesn’t respond during play. Some children may reach milestones late, or they may lose skills they once had. These signs don’t confirm autism, but they give you a reason to look closer.
Sign 1: Limited Eye Contact
One early sign is limited or no eye contact. Babies usually look at faces while being fed, held, or spoken to. If your child avoids this or doesn’t return your gaze, you may notice something different.
As toddlers, children with autism may still avoid eye contact while playing, talking, or listening. This can make it harder to connect during everyday moments. You may feel like your child is not engaging with you. Eye contact alone doesn’t confirm autism, but it often appears alongside other signs and gives families an early clue.
Sign 2: Delayed Speech or No Speech
One of the early signs parents often notice is delayed speech or no speech at all. Children on the autism spectrum may start speaking later than expected—or not begin speaking at all. Some children say a few words and then suddenly stop using them. This isn’t always a sign of regression, but it can signal that your child is developing differently.
You might notice that your child doesn’t babble as a baby or doesn’t try to repeat sounds you make. As they get older, they may not use single words like “mama” or “bye” when their peers do. Some children develop speech later, but their way of speaking sounds unusual. For example, they might repeat the same phrase over and over, or echo what they hear from others without using their own words.
It’s also common for these children to avoid using language for requests. Instead of saying “juice” or “toy,” they might take your hand and lead you to what they want. In some cases, they seem to understand what’s said but don’t respond with words, even when they know how.
Speech delays alone don’t always mean autism, but they are one of the most visible early signs. If your child isn’t speaking by age two or stops using words they used before, it’s worth talking to a pediatrician. Early screening can help you understand what’s happening and what support your child may need. Speech therapy can be one of the first helpful steps.
Sign 3: Lack of Interest in People
Some children with autism prefer to be alone even at a young age. They may not show interest in other kids or adults, and you might notice they don’t watch others or join in games. If you call their name, they may not respond, even if their hearing is fine. These signs often stand out during group activities, playdates, or family gatherings.
Sign 4: Repetitive Movements
Children on the autism spectrum often repeat the same movements over and over. You might see hand-flapping, rocking, spinning in circles, or tapping objects. These actions can help the child feel calm or focused, especially in situations that feel overwhelming or unpredictable. Some children repeat these movements when excited, stressed, or simply out of habit.
Sign 5: Fixation on Objects or Routines
Autistic children might become strongly attached to one specific toy, topic, or activity. They often play with it in the same way every time. If you move something or change their routine, they may get upset or anxious. Even small changes—like taking a different route to school—can trigger distress. This strong need for sameness can affect daily life.
Sign 6: Unusual Reaction to Sensory Input
Some children react strongly to certain lights, sounds, smells, or textures. You might see them cover their ears, avoid certain clothes, or back away from bright rooms. Others may seek strong input by crashing into furniture or enjoying deep hugs. These reactions aren’t just preferences—they reflect how the child’s brain processes sensory information.
Sign 7: No Imitation or Pretend Play
Most toddlers copy what they see—waving back, pretending to feed a toy, or talking on a play phone. Children with autism may skip these typical forms of play. Instead, they might repeat the same action with a toy or line objects up. They don’t imitate adults or peers as often, which can make early play look different from other children their age.
When to Talk to a Specialist
If you notice any of these signs, bring them up with your child’s pediatrician or a licensed therapist. Don’t wait—early screening can point you in the right direction. Tools like developmental checklists or M-CHAT can help guide referrals to specialists. Even if you’re unsure, it’s worth asking questions. A short conversation now can lead to the right support later. You don’t need a diagnosis to ask for help or get started with therapy.
What Autism Might Look Like in Different Ages
Autistic behaviors don’t stay the same at every age. Babies may show less eye contact or seem unaware when people speak to them. Toddlers might not wave, point, or speak as expected. They may focus on spinning objects or get upset when routines change. In preschool, you may notice play that doesn’t involve other kids or speech that repeats the same words over and over.
As children get older, some signs become easier to spot in social settings. School-age children may struggle with group work, loud environments, or reading facial expressions. They might not understand jokes or sarcasm. Some kids seem very advanced in one topic but fall behind in others.
Autism can also look different in teenagers. While some gain better coping strategies, others might become more withdrawn or anxious. Changes in routine or pressure to “fit in” can make things harder. Support needs may shift with age, and that’s normal.
Girls and Autism: Signs Are Often Missed
Autism is sometimes harder to spot in girls. Many signs that show up clearly in boys—like repetitive movements or delayed speech—may look different. Girls might speak on time and copy social behavior well enough to blend in. This is called “masking,” and it can hide their struggles with communication or sensory sensitivity.
Some girls seem quiet or shy, which adults may not see as a concern. Others form strong attachments to one friend or become very focused on animals, books, or fantasy topics. These interests might not seem unusual, so people often overlook them.
Because of this, many girls are diagnosed later or misdiagnosed with something else, like anxiety or ADHD. Teachers and parents may notice emotional outbursts or burnout without realizing the root cause. When girls don’t get support early, they often carry stress longer than they should. That’s why it helps to look beyond surface behavior and ask what might be going on underneath.
What Happens After a Diagnosis
Getting an autism diagnosis gives families a clearer path forward. It opens access to support, therapies, and learning strategies that match the child’s needs. You might work with a speech therapist, occupational therapist, or special education team. The goal isn’t to “fix” the child but to help them communicate, learn, and feel safe.
After diagnosis, families often meet with a case manager or developmental pediatrician. They help plan what happens next. This can include early intervention programs, school accommodations, or parent coaching. Some children benefit from visual schedules, sensory tools, or social stories.
It’s normal to feel overwhelmed at first, but many families feel relief once they have answers. A diagnosis isn’t a label—it’s a tool for getting support. Every autistic child has their own learning style, and that’s what a diagnosis helps uncover. With the right steps, many children build skills and confidence over time.
Finding the Right Behavior Therapist
When your child shows signs like avoiding eye contact, repeating the same movements, or not speaking much, it’s normal to wonder what’s going on. A behavior therapist can help you make sense of it all. They work directly with children on the autism spectrum to build communication, manage sensory overload, and make daily life a bit easier—for everyone.
Therapy doesn’t look the same for every child. Some need support with speech, others with social interaction or routines. A therapist pays attention to your child’s specific behavior and works step by step. This can mean practicing simple tasks, building calm routines, or helping them respond to everyday situations. The goal is progress—not perfection.
If you’re searching for help, try typing something like “autism therapist London,” “private autism teacher Liverpool,” or “help with autism Leeds.” You can also look for online support if it fits your schedule better.
Start small. Ask your pediatrician, visit a local support group, or read parent forums in your city. There’s no one right way—but getting help early can make a big difference in how your child moves through the world.
Try reaching out today. The earlier the support, the more time your child has to grow at their own pace.
Book your session on meet’n’learn today. If you want to read more about meditation, yoga or various learning difficulties, visit our blogs with learning tips.
Frequently Asked Questions About Autism Spectrum Disorder
1. What is autism spectrum disorder?
Autism spectrum disorder is a developmental condition that affects how a person communicates, interacts, and experiences the world.
2. How early can autism spectrum disorder be noticed?
Parents often notice signs of autism spectrum disorder before age three, such as delayed speech or lack of eye contact.
3. Can autism spectrum disorder be diagnosed in adults?
Yes, autism spectrum disorder can be diagnosed in adults if earlier signs were missed or misunderstood.
4. Is autism spectrum disorder caused by parenting?
No, parenting style does not cause autism spectrum disorder.
5. Can children with autism spectrum disorder attend regular school?
Many children with autism spectrum disorder attend mainstream schools with the right support and adjustments.
6. Do all people with autism spectrum disorder have the same symptoms?
No, symptoms of autism spectrum disorder vary widely from person to person.
7. Does autism spectrum disorder affect boys and girls equally?
Autism spectrum disorder is diagnosed more often in boys, but girls can have it too, sometimes with different signs.
8. Is there a cure for autism spectrum disorder?
There is no cure for autism spectrum disorder, but support and therapies can help with development and daily life.
Sources:
1. CDC – Signs and Symptoms of Autism
2. Mayo Clinic – Autism Spectrum Disorder
3. Wikipedia – Autism
