Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a developmental condition that affects communication, social interaction, and behavior. It is a spectrum disorder, meaning it can manifest in a wide range of ways and to varying degrees. While every child develops at their own pace, specific differences in development between ages 1 and 3 can indicate a need for further evaluation.
Identifying autism at an early stage empowers parents and caregivers to take proactive steps. The sooner children are identified, the sooner they can receive supportive therapies that foster communication, social skills, and independence.
Social and Communication Signs
Some toddlers with autism show differences in how they connect socially:
- Limited eye contact or avoiding looking at people’s faces
- Not responding to their name by 12 months of age.
- Rarely sharing interest by pointing or showing an object.s
- Lack of social smiling or imitation of others
- Limited gestures, such as waving or reaching to be picked up
Language Development Differences
Speech and language milestones may be delayed or follow an unusual pattern:
- No babbling or cooing by 12 months
- Few or no words by 16 months
- Not combining two words by 2 years old.
- Sudden loss of previously learned words or skills
- Echolalia (repeating words or phrases without understanding)
Behavioral Patterns
Repetitive actions or strong preferences for certain routines may emerge:
- Hand-flapping, rocking, or spinning objects
- Fascination with parts of objects (like wheels or buttons)
- Strong attachment to routines and distress with small changes
- Unusual responses to sensory input (covering ears, seeking pressure, avoiding certain textures)
Sensory Sensitivities
Many toddlers with autism react differently to sounds, lights, textures, or movement:
- Overreacting or underreacting to loud noises
- Avoiding certain clothing materials
- Seeking movement by spinning or jumping frequently
- Extreme interest in lights or moving patterns
When to Seek Professional Evaluation
If you notice several of these signs, it’s worth speaking to:
- Your child’s pediatrician
- A developmental pediatrician
- A child psychologist
- Early intervention specialists
Early diagnosis is not about labeling your child. It’s about providing access to the necessary support systems, such as speech therapy, occupational therapy, and autism-specific learning programs. This early intervention can make a tremendous difference in your child’s development.
Final Thoughts
Recognizing the early signs of autism in toddlers can feel overwhelming, but it’s also the first step toward providing the proper support. It’s important to remember that many children with autism go on to lead fulfilling, independent lives, and early intervention makes a tremendous difference.
Personal Thoughts
I wish I had known about these signs when my son was a toddler. I kept telling everyone that he is not normal, there is something wrong. Friends just kept saying he is just slow at meeting, his milestones, nothing to worry about.
It was while he was at daycare (2 years old) that the head teacher (owner) told me that he had issues. He couldn’t climb a ladder or crawl through a tube. She got early intervention involved, which led us to the first of many diagnoses: dyspraxia.
Little did I know, not having any immediate family close by, that this was only the beginning of a very long journey to finally get a total diagnosis for my son.
💡 Next in the series: Autism Symptoms in Children (4–12 Years) (coming soon)
💡 Return to the main guide: How to Know if Your Child Is Autistic: Signs & SymptomsAutism?
