7 Early Signs of Autism: A Practical Guide for Parents
Every child develops at their own pace. However, certain social, communication, and play behaviors can provide early clues about how a child engages with the world around them. Recognizing early signs of autism can help families access valuable resources and interventions during the most critical years of brain development.
Below are seven early signs parents often notice. These indicators do not confirm a diagnosis but can help you determine whether it’s time to seek a comprehensive evaluation.
1. Social Interest: Seeking Connection
Children typically show a natural curiosity about their peers. Many are eager to join playground games or interact spontaneously with other children.
What’s Typical: Your child may actively participate in group play, such as a game of tag or sharing toys at the park.
What to Watch For: Some children appear more comfortable playing alone, even when encouraged to join others. They may have difficulty integrating into group play and can seem slightly out of sync or disconnected from the social flow.
2. Responsiveness to Name & Physical Affection
Name recognition and physical closeness are important early signs of social engagement.
What’s Typical: When you call your child’s name, they pause, look at you, and respond with interest. Many young children naturally seek hugs or snuggles when they’re tired or upset.
What to Watch For: A child who does not consistently respond to their name, even after multiple attempts, may be showing an early sign of autism. Some children may resist cuddles or seem uncomfortable with typical forms of gentle physical affection, instead preferring firm pressure or more distance.
3. Smiles & Laughter
Smiling and shared laughter are simple but meaningful forms of early communication.
What’s Typical: Children often smile back when you smile at them and may giggle spontaneously during playful moments.
What to Watch For: Smiles and laughter may appear less frequently or only with extra physical prompting (like tickling). A child may seem less responsive to social cues that typically elicit a smile or laugh.
4. Facial Expressions
Children communicate feelings through facial expressions well before they can use words.
What’s Typical: A child’s eyes may widen with excitement when discovering something new, or they may show delight or surprise naturally.
What to Watch For: Some children’s facial expressions appear limited or may not match the emotional context. This mismatch can make it harder for caregivers to interpret how the child is feeling.
5. Babbling & Early Language
Early vocalizations are foundational for speech and social interaction.
What’s Typical: Infants and toddlers usually babble enthusiastically with sounds like “bababa” or “dadada,” often directing these sounds at caregivers as if they’re starting a conversation.
What to Watch For: A child who babbles infrequently or makes repetitive, high-pitched sounds without directing them toward another person may benefit from further observation.
6. Gestures & Showing
Sharing interests is a key social milestone.
What’s Typical: Many children will hold up an object, look at you, and babble, inviting you to share in their discovery.
What to Watch For: Some children place objects near a caregiver without making eye contact or vocalizing, which may indicate they are more focused on the object itself than on shared interaction.
7. Eye Contact
Eye contact is a simple but significant way young children connect with others.
What’s Typical: A child may look at you, then at an object they want, and back again to communicate a need or request.
What to Watch For: Consistently avoiding or minimizing eye contact can be an early indicator of social communication differences.
Why Early Autism Evaluations Matter
Identifying possible signs of autism early can make a meaningful difference. A timely evaluation enables families to access resources and interventions that support a child’s strengths and address their challenges during key developmental windows.
At WellBunch Psychology, we provide comprehensive autism assessments for toddlers, children, and teens in the Orlando area. We use gold-standard tools and a thoughtful, family-centered approach to help you understand your child’s unique profile and next steps.
What to Do if You Have Concerns
Trust your instincts: Parents are often the first to notice subtle differences.
Document your observations: Make notes of what you’re seeing and when.
Speak with your pediatrician: Share your concerns and request a referral if needed.
Schedule a professional evaluation: Early intervention can lead to better outcomes.
We’re Here to Support You
If you’re concerned about your child’s development, we invite you to connect with us for a consultation. Our caring team is here to answer your questions, provide clarity, and walk this path alongside your family.
📞 Call or text: (407) 494‑5288
📩 Email: help@wellbunch.net
🌐 Visit: wellbunch.netWellBunch Psychology Offers Comprehensive autism and ADHD evaluations, behavioral parent coaching, and evidence-based therapy in Orlando, FL.