Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a complex developmental condition that involves persistent challenges in social interaction, speech, non-verbal communication, and restricted/repetitive behaviours. When I first had concerns, I was met with similar responses such as “they don’t diagnose for autism until 6 or 7 years old - you’re overreacting” or “all kids do that, he’ll grow out of it.”
While autism can be diagnosed at any age, its symptoms often appear in the first two years of life. It's important to note that each child is unique, and the presence of certain signs doesn't automatically indicate autism. I’ve listed some of the signs of ASD across early childhood, including some uncommon signs that I noticed in my son. This is not professional advice nor part of a diagnostic tool - simply my own observations and a collation of research and information from our allied health professionals.
At 2 Years Old:
Examples of social communication and social interaction characteristics related to ASD can include;
- Limited use of gestures such as pointing or waving goodbye including self initiating (without prompt)
- Lack of interest in playing simple interactive games
- Not responding to their name being called straight away
- Delayed speech development or absence of babbling
- Prefers playing alone; shows little interest in other children (different to parallel play)
- special interests (for us it is Paw Patrol which has formed into police cars, fire trucks and helicopters)
Uncommon Signs:
- Unusual sensory interests (e.g., fascinated by lights or moving objects such as fans)
- Hyper-focus on specific toy parts (e.g., wheels of a toy car and watching it spin)
- Advanced abilities in a certain area, often referred to as 'splinter skills'
At 3 Years Old:
Examples of social communication and social interaction characteristics related to ASD can include:
- Difficulty with making eye contact, facial expressions, and body language
- Challenges in understanding feelings, their own or others'
- Repetitive behaviors such as flapping hands, rocking, or spinning
- Playing in ways that are unusual or repetitive (e.g., lining up toys)
- special interests continued (for us it is Paw Patrol which has formed into police cars, fire trucks and helicopters). Our paediatrician has said that the special interest ccould continue even into adulthood.
Uncommon Signs:
- Reacting to sounds, textures, tastes, or smells in an unusual way (sensory sensitivities) and which has resulted in picky eating or avoiding certain clothing due to textures
- Resistance to minor changes in routine or environment and difficulties to transition
- Problem-solving skills that appear advanced or out of sync with other development areas
At 4 Years Old:
We are not 4 yet but here are some researched examples of social communication and social interaction characteristics related to ASD can include:
- Lack of spontaneous or imaginative play
- Difficulty making friends or a disinterest in other children
- Unusual speech patterns (e.g., echolalia – repeating words or phrases)
- A strong need for routines and distress at changes
Uncommon Signs:
- Aversion to or need for unusually high levels of sensory stimulation
- Exceptional memory in specific areas or rote learning abilities
- Possible regression in milestones previously achieved
At 5 Years Old:
- Challenges in adapting to different social situations
- Difficulty sharing or taking turns
- Limited interest in a variety of play activities – may focus intensely on one interest
- Misinterpreting what others are thinking or feeling
Uncommon Signs:
- Exceptional skill or interest in particular subjects like numbers, patterns, or facts
- Difficulty gauging personal space – may stand too close or far from others during interaction
- Under- or over-reaction to pain
Most children with ASD have other related characteristics. These might include
- Delayed language skills
- Delayed movement skills
- Delayed cognitive or learning skills
- Hyperactive, impulsive, and/or inattentive behaviour
- Unusual eating and sleeping habits
- Unusual mood or emotional reactions
- Anxiety, stress, or excessive worry
It is important to note that children with ASD may not have all or any of the behaviours listed as examples here. If you think there may be signs, it doesn’t hurt to keep pursuing this even if a professional may think otherwise. You know your child best.
It's crucial for parents who notice signs of autism in their toddlers to consult a medical professional for a thorough evaluation. Early diagnosis and intervention can make a significant difference in helping children with autism to achieve their full potential. Every autistic child is different, and the degree to which they show certain signs can vary greatly. As they grow, some children may also develop coping mechanisms that mask their symptoms, which is why an experienced professional's assessment is necessary for a proper diagnosis.
This journey as an autism mum has been a huge part of my “why.” I designed an adjustable ring that has the worldwide autism symbol which holds a special place in my heart: when I wear it, it signifies to others that I am an autism advocate and sparks a conversation about autism when people ask about the ring.
You can find the link to it here:
https://subtlyanxious.com.au/products/18k-gold-vermeil-infinity-autism-ring