If something feels off with your child's development, you're right to pay attention. Here's what professionals and parents commonly observe — and what to do next.
Autism can only be diagnosed through a formal evaluation by a qualified clinician. The signs described here are things that parents and pediatricians often observe and consider worth evaluating — not a checklist that confirms or rules out autism. If you have concerns about your child's development, talk to your pediatrician.
Many parents notice something before anyone else names it. A child who doesn't respond to their name. A child who loses words they once had. A child who lines up toys rather than playing with them. These observations matter — and acting on them early makes a real difference.
The following are developmental patterns that are commonly associated with autism and are worth discussing with a pediatrician. They are organized by the area of development they affect.
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends autism-specific screening at the 18-month and 24-month well-child visits. But you don't have to wait for a scheduled screening if something concerns you now. Bring your observations to your pediatrician at your next visit — or call and request an earlier appointment if you're worried.
Do not wait to see if your child "catches up" or "grows out of it." Early intervention is significantly more effective when it begins as early as possible. Even if your child is ultimately not diagnosed with autism, an early evaluation gives you useful information and access to services that can help.
Your pediatrician will typically conduct a developmental screening at the visit. If the screening indicates further evaluation is warranted, you'll be referred to a specialist — usually a developmental pediatrician, child psychologist, or neurologist who performs full diagnostic evaluations.
In many areas, waiting lists for specialist evaluations are long. While you wait:
What are common early signs of autism in young children?
Early signs that pediatricians and parents often observe include: no babbling by 12 months; not pointing or waving by 12 months; no single words by 16 months; no two-word phrases by 24 months; any loss of previously acquired language or social skills; limited or inconsistent eye contact; not responding to name; preferring solitary play; strong preference for sameness; repetitive movements; and unusually intense focus on specific topics or objects. These are things to discuss with a pediatrician — they do not confirm or rule out autism.
What age can autism be detected?
Autism can be reliably diagnosed as early as 18 to 24 months in many cases. The AAP recommends autism screening at 18-month and 24-month well-child visits. If you have concerns earlier than that, raise them with your pediatrician at any visit — do not wait for the scheduled screening.
What should I do if I think my child might be showing signs of autism?
Talk to your pediatrician as soon as possible. Describe specifically what you've observed. Do not wait to see if your child grows out of it — early intervention is significantly more effective when it begins early. If you're waiting for a specialist appointment, ask about Part C early intervention services (for children under 3) — you do not need an autism diagnosis to access them.
Can my child show some signs of autism and not be autistic?
Yes. Many children show some overlapping behaviors without meeting diagnostic criteria for autism. Some are diagnosed with related conditions (developmental delay, ADHD, sensory processing disorder, anxiety) instead. The only way to know is a professional evaluation — which is valuable regardless of outcome.
What is early intervention and why does it matter?
Early intervention refers to services (speech therapy, OT, ABA therapy, developmental support) for children under age 5 who have or are at risk for developmental delays. In the US, Part C programs serve children under 3 without requiring a diagnosis. Research consistently shows that early intervention leads to better long-term outcomes. Earlier is better — don't wait for a formal diagnosis to access services.
A free, plain-language guide for families navigating autism — from early concerns through school-age support. What to do, who to call, and how to help your child at home.
Get the Free Family Guide →AI Disclosure: This content was designed with AI assistance and reviewed by Special Learning for accuracy. It is intended for general educational information only and does not constitute medical or diagnostic advice. Only a qualified clinician can diagnose autism. If you have concerns about your child's development, consult your pediatrician.
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