Why Early Awareness Matters
Early detection of autism can make a profound difference in a child’s development. The earlier families recognize potential signs and seek evaluation, the sooner children can access therapies and supports that promote communication, social skills, and independence. While every child develops at their own pace, there are certain milestones and behaviors that may signal the need for further assessment.
12 Months: Signs to Watch For
At around one year, babies are usually beginning to connect with caregivers through gestures and simple communication. Possible red flags at this age include:
- Limited or no response to their name
- Lack of eye contact or reduced social smiling
- Not pointing to objects to show interest (“joint attention”)
- Minimal use of gestures like waving or reaching
- Little or no babbling
18 Months: Red Flags Become Clearer
By 18 months, many toddlers begin to use words and show more social curiosity. Warning signs that may appear include:
- Few or no spoken words
- Limited interest in playing interactive games like peek-a-boo
- Difficulty following simple directions
- Preference for playing alone over interacting with others
- Strong fixation on certain objects or repetitive movements
24 Months: More Noticeable Gaps
At age two, most children are combining words and engaging in simple pretend play. Signs of concern at this stage may include:
- Not using two-word phrases (e.g., “want juice”)
- Loss of language or social skills they previously had
- Minimal imitation of actions, words, or facial expressions
- Repetitive play patterns such as lining up toys or spinning objects
- Heightened distress during changes in routine
36 Months and Beyond: Social Differences Stand Out
By age three, differences in communication and social interaction often become more pronounced. Red flags to watch for include:
- Difficulty engaging in back-and-forth conversations, even simple ones
- Limited pretend play compared to peers
- Unusual tone of voice or repetitive phrases (echolalia)
- Limited interest in playing with other children
- Intense, narrow interests paired with strong resistance to change
Trust Your Instincts
It’s important to remember that the presence of one or two of these behaviors does not necessarily mean a child has autism. However, consistent patterns across multiple areas are worth discussing with your pediatrician. Parents know their children best, and trusting your instincts can lead to early support that makes a lasting impact.
Ready To Talk About Your Concerns?
Recognizing developmental red flags early is the first step in ensuring children get the help they need to thrive. If you notice several of these behaviors in your child, don’t wait—schedule a conversation with your pediatrician and seek guidance from trusted specialists.
At Phoenix Autism Center, we are dedicated to helping families navigate these early questions with clarity and compassion. Our team specializes in early intervention for children up to age six, providing the tools and therapies that open doors for growth. If you’d like to learn more or schedule a consultation, contact Phoenix Autism Center today
