Social interaction
- Difficulty using nonverbal behaviors, like eye contact or gestures
- Not developing peer relationships expected for their age
- Rarely seeking to share interests or achievements with others
- Limited social or emotional back-and-forth
Developmental disorders
Early signs of autism in children: what parents can look for
Signs of autism and related developmental disabilities usually show up in three areas: social interaction, communication and behavior.
This page is for informational purposes only and is not a guideline for treatment or intervention.
Signs to watch for
Three areas of development
Communication
- Delayed or no spoken language, without other ways of communicating
- Difficulty with conversation
- Repetitive or unusual use of language
- Little make-believe or imitative play for their age
Behavior
- Very intense focus on one narrow interest
- Strict attachment to routines or rituals
- Repetitive movements
- Persistent focus on parts of objects
These are only a few possible signs. The Autism Society of America describes many more.
What is autism?
Autism is a brain disorder that typically affects how a person communicates, forms relationships and responds to their environment. Many people with autism go on to succeed in careers from film to mathematics.
What causes autism?
It's generally accepted that autism is caused by differences in brain structure or function. Research has not found one specific cause.
How common is autism?
Autism is found in every country and in families of every background. It's three to four times more common in boys than girls. In the United States, about 1 in 31 children is identified with autism (CDC, 2025).
Where can my child be diagnosed?
A diagnosis should be completed by a licensed neurologist or psychologist. Pediatricians and child psychiatrists can sometimes diagnose as well. If you think your child should see a neurologist, contact us and we'll gladly refer neurologists we trust.