Key takeaways: Some early signs of autism can appear in the first year, such as limited eye contact, not responding to their name by about 9 to 12 months, few gestures, and limited back-and-forth smiling and sounds. Many babies with some of these signs don’t have autism. The AAP recommends autism screening at 18 and 24 months, plus developmental surveillance at every visit. Early support helps.
Every child develops at their own pace. Knowing some early signs of autism can help you seek support sooner if needed.
What Is Autism?
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a developmental condition that affects communication, social interaction, and behavior. It varies widely from person to person.
Possible Early Signs
Signs may become more noticeable in the second half of the first year and into toddlerhood:
- Limited eye contact.
- Not responding to their name by about 9 to 12 months.
- Few or no gestures, like pointing, waving, or reaching to be picked up, by 12 months.
- Limited back-and-forth smiles, sounds, and facial expressions.
- Little interest in social games like peekaboo.
- Unusual reactions to sounds, textures, or lights.
- Repetitive movements like hand-flapping (more often seen later).
- Losing skills they once had, at any age.
From the author
From First Breath to First Birthday is my month-by-month guide to your baby’s first year, written as a NICU and postpartum nurse. My book follows your baby’s growth and development month by month, from the first hours after birth to the first birthday.
Screening
The AAP recommends:
- Developmental surveillance at every well visit.
- General developmental screening at 9, 18, and 30 months.
- Autism-specific screening at 18 and 24 months, often using a questionnaire like the M-CHAT-R/F.
What to Do if You’re Concerned
- Talk to your pediatrician. You don’t need to wait for a screening visit.
- Contact early intervention in your state. Children under 3 can be evaluated for free, and you don’t need a doctor’s referral.
- Get a hearing test if your baby doesn’t respond to sounds.
Why Early Matters
Early intervention can support communication, social, and learning skills.
About Vaccines
Many large studies have looked for a link between vaccines and autism and have not found one.
The Bottom Line
Know the early signs, use the CDC milestone checklists, and talk to your pediatrician if you have concerns. Trust your instincts.
Want more support for your baby’s first year? My book, From First Breath to First Birthday, is available on Amazon.
Related Articles
Sources
- Hyman SL, Levy SE, Myers SM; Council on Children With Disabilities, Section on Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics. Identification, evaluation, and management of children with autism spectrum disorder. Pediatrics. 2020;145(1):e20193447.
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Signs and symptoms of autism spectrum disorder; Learn the Signs. Act Early. https://www.cdc.gov/autism
- Lipkin PH, Macias MM; Council on Children With Disabilities, Section on Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics. Promoting optimal development: identifying infants and young children with developmental disorders through developmental surveillance and screening. Pediatrics. 2020;145(1):e20193449.
This article is for general education and is not a substitute for individualized medical advice. Always talk with your baby’s health care provider or your own provider about your specific situation. If you think your baby or you may have a medical emergency, call 911.
