Early signs of autism.

Early signs of autism can be difficult to identify and may be overlooked or dismissed as typical childhood behaviour. However, recognising the earliest signs and symptoms is essential for early diagnosis and intervention. This article will discuss the early signs of autism in young children and the benefits of timely diagnosis and intervention.

Early signs of autism in young children can vary significantly from child to child, but there are some common indicators to look for. One of the most common signs is a delay in language development. Though a language delay can be due to many different factors, sometimes not babbling by 12 months of age or forming sentences by 24 months of age can be an early symptom. Other common signs include eye contact that isn’t coordinated with their gestures or communication, reduced social interactions compared to other children, and repetitive behaviours such as hand flapping or rocking. In addition to these potential signs of autism, there are other indicators to look for in young children, such as difficulty playing imaginatively, difficulty understanding social cues and gestures, and difficulty transitioning from one activity to another. Children with autism may also be hypersensitive to certain noises or textures, and may have difficulty interpreting facial expressions and body language.

Early diagnosis can help identify the best interventions for the child and their family, and can lead to better long-term outcomes. Early intervention can help a child learn new skills, reduce challenging behaviours, improve communication, and increase overall quality of life. Early signs of autism in young children can vary significantly from child to child, but there are some common indicators. Recognising and responding to these signs is essential for timely diagnosis and intervention. If you have noticed possible signs of ASD in a young person, please reach out to your GP for an opinion, and seek a referral to an autism diagnostic service.