10 Early Signs Of Autism In Toddlers

Autism, also known as autism spectrum disorder (ASD), is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects how a person thinks, interacts with others, and experiences the world. It is characterized by a wide range of challenges, including difficulties with social communication and interaction, repetitive behaviours, and restricted interests.

People with autism have diverse abilities and may experience the disorder in different ways. Some individuals may have significant challenges with speech and intellectual abilities, while others may have average or above-average intelligence. Autism is often associated with sensory sensitivities, such as heightened or reduced sensitivity to certain sounds, lights, textures, or tastes.

The term spectrum in autism spectrum disorder refers to the wide variation in symptoms, severity, and functional abilities that individuals may exhibit. Some individuals with autism may require significant support in their daily lives, while others may be highly independent and excel in certain areas.

Autism is typically diagnosed in early childhood, although the signs and symptoms can become more apparent as a child grows older. The exact cause of autism is not known, but it is believed to result from a combination of genetic and environmental factors.

It's important to note that autism is not a disease or a condition that can be cured. However, with appropriate support, interventions, and therapies, individuals with autism can lead fulfilling lives and make significant progress in various aspects of their development.

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Early signs of autism in toddlers can vary, and it's important to remember that each child develops at their own pace.

However, here are ten potential signs that may indicate the presence of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in toddlers.

10 Early Signs of Autism in Toddlers:

• Lack of eye contact
• Limited social interaction
• Delayed speech or language skills
• Repetitive behaviours
• Resistance to changes in routine
• Sensory sensitivities
• Lack of pretend play
• Difficulty understanding nonverbal cues
• Unusual fixations or intense interests
• Lack of imitation

Lack of eye contact:

Typically, toddlers naturally engage in eye contact during social interactions. However, a child showing early signs of autism may avoid making eye contact. They may not respond when their name is called or seem disinterested in looking at people's faces. Toddlers with autism might not make consistent eye contact with caregivers or may only do so intermittently.

Limited social interaction:

Another early sign is a lack of interest in social interactions or difficulty engaging in play with other children. They may prefer to play alone and have difficulty understanding or responding to social cues.

They may show little interest in engaging with others, such as not responding to their name or not initiating or reciprocating social interactions.

Delayed speech or language skills:

Some toddlers with autism may have a delay in their language development or show a lack of interest in verbal communication.

While each child develops at their own pace, delayed speech or language development can be an early sign of autism. Toddlers with autism may have difficulty speaking their first words or struggle with forming phrases and sentences.

Repetitive behaviours:

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They may engage in repetitive actions like rocking, hand flapping, or spinning objects, which can be a way to self-soothe or seek sensory stimulation.

Autistic toddlers often display repetitive behaviours, such as repetitive hand movements (flapping or twisting), rocking back and forth, or obsessively lining up toys or objects.

Resistance to changes in routine:

Children with autism often prefer predictable and structured environments. Any changes to their routine may cause distress or resistance.

Sensory sensitivities:

Autistic toddlers may be oversensitive or undersensitive to sensory stimuli. They may react strongly to certain sounds, textures, or lights, becoming upset or distressed. Conversely, they may seek out certain sensory inputs, such as spinning or touching certain objects repetitively. They may display heightened or diminished sensitivity to certain sensory stimuli, such as being overly sensitive to noise, light, textures, or tastes.

Lack of pretend play:

Children with autism may not engage in imaginative or pretend play activities, preferring repetitive or solitary play instead. While all children engage in imaginative play, autistic toddlers might exhibit repetitive or restricted play patterns. They may become fixated on specific objects, focusing intensely on them while ignoring other toys or activities.

Difficulty understanding nonverbal cues:

Autistic toddlers may struggle to understand and express emotions. They might have difficulty recognizing facial expressions or understanding others' feelings, which can impact their social interactions and empathy.

They may struggle to interpret and respond appropriately to nonverbal cues like facial expressions, gestures, or body language.

Unusual fixations or intense interests:

Toddlers with autism may develop unusually intense interests in specific objects or topics, often focusing on them for extended periods.

Lack of imitation:

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Typically, toddlers learn by imitating the actions of others. However, a sign of autism can be a limited ability to imitate gestures, facial expressions, or actions. This can make it difficult for them to learn through observation.

Remember, these signs are not definitive proof of autism but can serve as indicators for further evaluation. If you have concerns about your child's development, it's crucial to consult with a healthcare professional or paediatrician for a comprehensive assessment.