Early Signs Every Parent Should Know
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a complex developmental condition that affects communication, behaviour and social interaction. While definitive autism diagnoses are usually made between 2 and 4 years of age, research suggests that subtle symptoms may be detectable even in infants as young as a few months. Recognizing early signs can empower parents and caregivers to seek guidance, ultimately leading to early interventions that can significantly improve outcomes.
In this blog, we will explore some early signs of autism in newborns, discuss typical developmental milestones and offer guidance on what parents should watch for during the earliest stages of their child’s development.
Understanding Autism in Early Childhood
Autism is characterized by challenges in social interaction, communication, and repetitive or restrictive behaviours. These features can vary widely in terms of severity and expression from one child to another. The condition is often diagnosed when children fail to reach age-appropriate milestones or exhibit behaviors that are outside the typical developmental trajectory.
While autism can be reliably diagnosed by trained professionals around 18 to 24 months, certain early behaviours in infants may be linked to autism. Recognizing these indicators doesn’t mean an autism diagnosis, but it may prompt early monitoring and support, which are vital for a child’s development.
Early signs of Autism in Infants
Here are some signs of autism that may be observed in the first year of life and could warrant attention:
Reduced Eye Contact
One of the earliest and most telling signs is reduced or absent eye contact. Newborns generally show an interest in looking at faces, especially their parents. By 2-3 months, most babies engage in eye contact, which is foundational for social bonding. If a baby consistently avoids making eye contact, it might be worth consulting with a pediatrician.
Limited Response to Their Name
By around 6 to 9 months, infants typically start responding to their names by turning their heads or showing some sign of recognition. A baby who doesn’t respond consistently to their name or other familiar voices could be exhibiting an early sign of autism.
Lack of Social Smiling
Social smiling usually emerges by 2 to 3 months of age. This reflexive smile, which babies often share with caregivers, is an essential component of bonding and emotional connection. Babies on the autism spectrum may not engage in social smiling or may smile less frequently.
Delayed or Unusual Gestures
Babies use gestures like pointing, waving or reaching to communicate before they can speak. By 9 to 12 months, most infants begin to use gestures to indicate their wants and interests. If a child isn’t demonstrating these actions or appears uninterested in gesturing, it could be a sign of a developmental delay.
Limited Babbling or Coos
By 4 to 6 months, babies typically start babbling, making sounds like “ba-ba” or “da-da.” These early vocalizations are an essential part of language development. Babies who don’t babble or make repetitive sounds may need further evaluation, as this can sometimes be a precursor to language delays associated with autism.
Sensitivity to Sensory Stimuli
Some infants with autism may react strongly to sensory experiences, such as sounds, textures, or lights, or may have an unusual response to touch. They may be overly sensitive or, conversely, may seem less responsive to sensory stimuli than other children their age.
Lack of Imitation
Babies learn through imitation, such as copying facial expressions or gestures. By 6 to 9 months, most infants start mimicking simple actions, which plays a crucial role in learning and socialization. Babies who do not engage in these behaviors may experience developmental challenges that warrant further observation.
The above are few potential signs of autism that is usually observed in infants.
Developmental Milestones for Infants
Tracking milestones is an excellent way for parents to observe their child’s growth and identify potential areas of concern. Below are some typical developmental stages:
1-3 Months: Makes eye contact, follows objects, responds to sounds, smiles at familiar faces.
4-6 Months: Begins to babble, reaches for objects, shows affection, begins to respond to their name.
6-9 Months: Shows curiosity, imitates sounds, expresses more varied emotions, enjoys social play.
9-12 Months: Points at objects, starts responding to simple commands, uses simple gestures, engages in interactive games like peek-a-boo.
These milestones provide a helpful framework, but every child is unique. Some variation is normal; however, significant delays may indicate the need for professional support.
Monitoring and Supporting Your Child’s Development
For parents who notice potential signs of autism in their newborn, it’s important to remember that early indicators are not definitive diagnoses. Observing and documenting behaviours over time is helpful when consulting with pediatricians or developmental specialists.
Keep a Developmental Journal
Tracking your child’s progress allows you to record observations, including eye contact, responses to names, and social interactions. Journaling these moments will help provide concrete examples when discussing concerns with healthcare providers.
Engage in Interactive Play
Encouraging eye contact, imitation, and interactive games can support social and cognitive development. Simple games like peek-a-boo and gentle vocal play can stimulate engagement and build social interaction skills.
Seek Early Intervention Programs
Early intervention can have a significant impact on a child’s development, especially for children on the autism spectrum. Programs that focus on communication, behavior, and social skills are available and can be customized based on individual needs.
Consult a Pediatrician or Developmental Specialist
If there are consistent concerns about your child’s behaviour, consult with a pediatrician. They may refer you to specialists or recommend developmental screenings. Early diagnosis can lead to early intervention, which is vital for helping children reach their fullest potential.
When to Seek Professional Help?
While it’s normal for some infants to reach developmental milestones at their own pace, significant or consistent delays may be a reason for further assessment. Parents should consider consulting a healthcare professional if their baby consistently shows:
Minimal interest in eye contact or social interaction
Limited response to their name or familiar voices
Lack of smiling, cooing, or babbling
Difficulty with sensory processing
At Ashoka Child Development Centre, our team of specialists provides thorough developmental assessments and tailored support programs. Our goal is to help each child and family navigate their unique developmental path with understanding and expertise. Early recognition and intervention are powerful tools in shaping a child’s future, and we are here to guide families through this journey.
Conclusion
Identifying early signs of autism in newborns can be challenging but understanding potential indicators empowers parents to seek timely guidance. By observing developmental milestones and engaging in positive interactions, families can foster a supportive environment for their child’s growth. For those with concerns, professional assessments and early interventions can make a remarkable difference, offering tailored support that aligns with each child’s needs.
Ashoka Child Development Centre is committed to helping families recognize, understand, and support their child’s unique developmental journey. With specialized care and a compassionate approach, we work to ensure that every child has access to resources that nurture their potential.