Early Signs of Autism: What Parents Should Look For
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a developmental condition that affects social interaction, communication, behaviours, and sensory processing. Recognising the early signs of autism can help ensure a child receives the support they need during the most critical stages of development.
Early identification makes a significant difference. It allows for tailored intervention, improved understanding, and better long-term outcomes. If you have concerns, it’s important to consult with your child’s doctor or paediatrician for guidance and assessment.
Why Early Detection Matters
The early signs of autism can vary widely between children. Some signs may appear during infancy, while others become more noticeable as a child grows. It’s important to remember that:
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Not all children with autism will show every sign
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Some behaviours may also be seen in children without autism
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Professional evaluation is essential for an accurate diagnosis
Because autism exists on a spectrum, timely observation and follow-up are crucial. Trust your instincts—if something doesn’t feel quite right, seek advice.
Developmental Signs to Watch For
By 6 Months
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Limited or no big smiles or joyful expressions
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Reduced or absent eye contact
By 9 Months
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Little to no response with sounds, smiles, or facial expressions
By 12 Months
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Minimal babbling
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Few or no gestures (e.g., pointing, waving, reaching)
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Lack of response to their name
By 18 Months
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Very limited spoken words
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Lack of interest in sharing experiences with others
By 24 Months
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Few or no meaningful two-word phrases (excluding echoing or repetition)
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Little awareness when others are hurt or upset
By 36 Months
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Lack of interest in playing with other children
Additional Signs That May Appear at Any Age
While some signs emerge early, others may be noticed later. These behaviours could indicate your child is at risk for ASD:
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Avoiding eye contact
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Repeating words or phrases (echolalia)
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Losing previously acquired language or social skills
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Strong reactions to sensory input (e.g., sound, light, texture)
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Intense, narrow interests
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Difficulty coping with small changes in routine
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Engaging in repetitive movements
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Delayed speech and language development
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Learning difficulties
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Atypical emotional responses
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Frequent anxiety or stress
If several of these signs are present, especially in combination, it’s time to speak with your healthcare provider for an evaluation.
What to Do If You Notice Early Signs of Autism
Don’t wait. If you observe any of the signs above, particularly across multiple age milestones, we recommend reaching out to your GP or paediatrician. Early support has been shown to greatly improve long-term outcomes for children on the spectrum.
➡️ Raising Children Network – Autism is an excellent resource for additional guidance on early signs, developmental screening, and support services.
How Freedom Therapy Services Can Help
At Freedom Therapy Services, we specialise in supporting children with autism and developmental challenges. Our team provides evidence-based intervention, including:
- Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA)
- Early intervention programs
- Behavioural support strategies
- Social skills groups tailored to your child’s age and needs
Our services aim to improve communication, emotional regulation, and independence in a safe, supportive environment.
➡️ Learn more about our Early Intervention Programs
📞 Contact us today to speak with our friendly team about your child’s needs
Recognising the early signs of autism is the first step toward making sure your child is understood, supported, and empowered. With the right guidance, they can thrive at home, in school, and in life.
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