Core Signs and Behaviors of Autism

Understanding the core signs and behaviors associated with autism is essential for early identification and effective support. Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) presents unique challenges and strengths in each individual, often affecting communication, social interaction, and behavior. By recognizing these core signs, caregivers, educators, and professionals can provide the tailored interventions and support necessary to help children thrive.

The behavioral symptoms of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) often appear early in development. Many children show symptoms of autism by 12 months to 18 months of age or earlier. Some early signs of autism include:

  • Problems with eye contact
  • No response to his or her name
  • Problems following another person’s gaze or pointed finger to an object (or “joint attention”)
  • Poor skills in pretend play and imitation
  • Problems with nonverbal communication

Many parents are not aware of these “early” signs of autism and don’t start thinking about autism until their children do not start talking at a typical age. Below, we outline the key indicators that may suggest a child is on the autism spectrum.

Impaired Social Communication Skills

  • Difficulty responding to their name
  • Limited or absent eye contact
  • Lack of interest in interacting with others
  • Difficulty sharing interests or pointing at objects
  • May prefer isolation or avoid social interaction

Impaired Communication Skills

  • Not babbling or using gestures by 12 months
  • Limited speech development (no words by 16 months, no two-word phrases by 24 months)
  • Difficulty speaking with typical rhythm, pitch, and volume

Repetitive or Restricted Behaviors

  • Focus on parts of objects (e.g., wheels of a car, fans)
  • Engaging in repetitive actions (e.g., hand flapping, rocking, toe walking)
  • Resistance to changes in routine or environment

Other Behavioral Concerns

  • Sensory sensitivities (e.g., being over- or under-sensitive to light, sound, or textures)
  • Extreme meltdowns or tantrums
  • Sleep disturbances or irregular sleeping patterns

Signs of Autism in Babies and Toddlers

Recognizing autism in children younger than 2 years can be challenging, but early detection is critical. Here are some key signs:

At 6 Months:

  • Limited or absent smiles, few joyful facial expressions
  • Limited eye contact
  • Ignoring unfamiliar people

At 9 Months:

  • Limited imitation of sounds or facial expressions
  • No laughter, smiles, or interest in objects

At 12 Months:

  • No babbling or meaningful gestures (e.g., waving, pointing)
  • No response to their name or common activities

At 16 Months:

  • Difficulty speaking, few words
  • Limited movement (e.g., walking, crawling) or repetitive movements

At 24 Months:

  • No meaningful words or two-word phrases

Signs of Autism in Children Over 2 Years

As children grow, the signs become more noticeable. Here are some key behaviors to monitor:

Social Interactions:

  • Limited interest in others, difficulty making friends
  • Does not engage in group games or activities
  • Difficulty understanding others’ feelings and emotions

Speech and Language:

  • Unusual pitch or rhythm when speaking
  • Repeating the same words or phrases
  • Difficulty communicating needs or understanding simple statements

Non-Verbal Communication:

  • Avoiding eye contact or inappropriate facial expressions
  • Not responding to or using gestures like pointing or waving
  • Sensitivity to sensory stimuli (e.g., sounds, lights)

Behavioral Challenges:

  • Rigid behavior, difficulty adapting to changes
  • Unusual attachment to specific objects
  • Repetitive actions or intense focus on a single activity for extended periods