Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects how a person communicates, interacts socially, and processes sensory information. Early identification is important because it enables access to intervention during the period of greatest brain plasticity. While definitive diagnosis typically occurs after age two, subtle signs may be observable much earlier.
Social Communication Differences
Some of the earliest signs involve differences in social communication. These may include limited or absent eye contact, reduced social smiling (not smiling in response to a caregiver’s smile), not responding to their name by 12 months, limited use of gestures (not pointing, waving, or showing objects by 12-14 months), reduced interest in other children, and limited joint attention (not following a caregiver’s pointing gesture or not directing a caregiver’s attention to objects of interest).
Language Differences
Language development may be delayed or atypical. Some children with autism have no words by 18 months, while others develop language on schedule but use it in unusual ways. For example, repeating phrases from television (echolalia) rather than using language communicatively, or referring to themselves by name rather than using “I.”
Behavioural Patterns
Restricted and repetitive behaviours may become apparent in the toddler years: intense focus on specific objects or parts of objects (wheels, lights), repetitive movements (hand-flapping, rocking, spinning), strong reactions to changes in routine, unusual sensory responses (covering ears, aversion to certain textures, fascination with specific visual patterns), and lining up toys rather than playing with them imaginatively.
Important Caveats
Many of these behaviours occur in typically developing children too. What distinguishes them in autism is their persistence, intensity, and combination. A toddler who lines up cars once is playing. A toddler who lines up cars exclusively, shows limited social engagement, does not respond to their name, and uses no words at 18 months presents a different picture. Context and pattern matter more than any single behaviour.
What to Do If You Have Concerns
If you notice a pattern of these signs, speak with your paediatrician or child health nurse. Early assessment and intervention for autism are highly effective, with research showing that intensive early support can significantly improve communication, social skills, and adaptive functioning. In Australia, the NDIS provides funding for early intervention for children with autism.
Early childhood educators who document social, communication, and behavioural observations using Personhood360 can contribute valuable data that supports early identification and helps families access assessment and intervention sooner.