Early detection of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) can be life-changing for children and their families. Research shows that early diagnosis of and interventions for autism are more likely to have major long-term positive effects on symptoms and later skills, yet many parents miss or dismiss the warning signs during their child’s crucial developmental years.
Understanding autism’s early indicators and acting on them promptly isn’t just important—it’s essential for your child’s future.
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a developmental disability caused by differences in the brain. People with ASD often have problems with social communication and interaction, and restricted or repetitive behaviors or interests. The condition affects approximately 1 in 31 children in the United States, making it more common than many parents realize.
Early signs of autism usually appear in the first 1-2 years of life. Being aware of these red flags can help you seek evaluation and support sooner rather than later.
Does not share interests with others by 15 months of age, does not point to show you something interesting by 18 months of age, does not notice when others are hurt or upset by 24 months of age—these are critical developmental milestones that warrant attention if absent.
Children at risk for autism may exhibit:
Subtle differences related to autism may be present before a child’s first birthday and typically show up before 24 months. Parents should watch for delayed speech development, lack of babbling, or regression in previously acquired language skills.
The younger children are, the more plasticity they have. This means that the brain is more malleable, which is a fancy way of saying that it can be shaped and molded to make life changes easier to adapt to. This neuroplasticity makes early childhood the optimal time for intervention.
Research shows that early intervention services can greatly improve a child’s development and result in better outcomes. The advantages include:
Even within early childhood, timing matters. For children under 3 years of age, improvement was large. For children over 3, the effect was smaller and didn’t quite reach statistical significance. This underscores the critical importance of identifying autism before a child’s third birthday.
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that all children be screened for autism at ages 18 months and 24 months, in addition to undergoing developmental and behavioral screenings during their regular well-child visits. Don’t wait for your pediatrician to bring it up—if you have concerns, voice them immediately.
Research has found that autism spectrum disorder can sometimes be detected at 18 months or younger. By age 2 years, a diagnosis by an experienced professional can be considered very reliable.
If you have any concerns about your child’s development, don’t wait. Speak to your doctor now about screening your child for autism. Trust your parental instincts—you know your child best.
Early intervention services help children from birth to 3 years of age learn important skills. Services include therapy to help the child talk, walk, and interact with others. These programs are available in every state, often at low or no cost to families.
Early identification of ASD can help children receive services and supports they might need for their development and to improve long-term outcomes. A formal diagnosis is the key to accessing specialized educational programs, therapies, and family support services.
Delaying evaluation and intervention can have lasting consequences. The earlier the diagnosis, the sooner the child can access intervention, and the greater the opportunity for developing skills and managing sensory experiences and behaviors.
Some parents hesitate due to:
However, with early intervention, some children with autism make so much progress that they are no longer on the autism spectrum when they are older. This remarkable outcome is most likely when intervention begins early.
As a parent, learning about developmental milestones and autism signs is one of the most important things you can do. One of the most important things you can do as a parent or caregiver is to learn the early signs of autism and become familiar with the developmental milestones that your child should be reaching.
The message is clear: early autism signs should never be ignored. While every child develops differently, early intervention can improve outcomes, often dramatically.
If you notice any developmental concerns—whether it’s lack of eye contact, delayed speech, repetitive behaviors, or difficulty with social interaction—contact your pediatrician immediately. Early screening, accurate diagnosis, and prompt intervention can profoundly impact your child’s trajectory, giving them the best possible foundation for a fulfilling life.
Remember: intervention at any age can be helpful, but the earlier you act, the better the outcomes tend to be. Your child’s future may depend on the actions you take today.