The Early Identification of Autism Spectrum Disorders
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EARLY WARNING SIGNS
Identifying autism at the earliest age possible is of the utmost importance because early treatment can have a major beneficial impact on both the child and family.
Below are important signs describing what children between 12-24 months at risk for an Autism Spectrum Disorder, generally don’t do, as well as a description of what they may do.
Note that many toddlers who are developing normally may also show a few of the behaviors listed below. Only a professional can determine if your infant/toddler is at true risk for autism. If you are concerned and your baby is between 12-24 months, please contact the Autism Center of Excellence in San Diego at 858 534 6912.
Click on the early warning signs below to learn more about each sign.
Your Baby MIGHT: Your Baby MIGHT NOT:
Talk or babble in a voice with an unusual tone Point to share interest in objects
Become agitated easily in response to sounds Point to request something
Carry around a specific object for extended periods Enjoy babbling or talking with another person Display unusual hand movements Make good eye contact
Appear passive and show low enthusiasm Bring toys to caregiver to show them
Repeat unusual phrases Respond when their name is called
Consistently tantrum Look when someone tries to direct them
Appear not to hear when spoken to Enjoy cuddling on a regular basis
Have difficulties transitioning between activities Show shared enjoyment during baby games
Have limited range of emotional facial expressions Babble or say their first word by 12-14 months
Use their bodies to convey emotion
Use common gestures
Show interest in other children
Work hard to gain the attention of others
Use a large range of facial expressions
Work hard to gain the attention of others
Smile or laugh in repsonse to your playfulness