14 Early Autism Signs and Symptoms in Young Children

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is characterized by a diverse range of social, communicative, and behavioral patterns that may deviate from typical development in children. The presentation of ASD symptoms can vary significantly among individuals, manifesting across a continuum from mild to profound. Notably, there are 14 recognized behaviors that frequently serve as early indicators of autism in children, each of which may signal the need for a professional evaluation.

1. Disconnection to Others

Children with autism may exhibit behaviors that suggest a lack of emotional connection with family members, such as parents and siblings. This can include difficulty in interpreting and responding to social cues, such as facial expressions. While it may appear that children with autism are emotionally distant, it is more accurate to say they often process social information differently and may not respond typically to emotional stimuli. It is also observed that infants with autism might show reduced instances of smiling or sharing joyful expressions, as well as engage less in the reciprocal exchange of sounds or facial expressions that is commonly seen by the age of 9 months. It is essential to recognize these early indicators to provide the appropriate support and interventions.

2. Apparent Lack of Empathy

Children on the autism spectrum often exhibit challenges in experiencing empathy, an emotion that can already be complex to assess in young children. These individuals may struggle to grasp different perspectives, mistakenly believing others share their viewpoint, which can lead to confusion and difficulty predicting others' behavior. Importantly, this limited understanding is not indicative of an inability to feel empathy; rather, it reflects a divergent developmental trajectory commonly associated with autism spectrum disorders. It is also important to recognize that the emotional spectrum in autistic children may appear more restricted, and empathy may not be as readily expressed or developed as in their neurotypical peers.

3. Indifferent to Human Interaction

Children typically exhibit sociable behaviors early in development, yet those with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) may demonstrate distinct signs of social disengagement. Such signs include an absence of eye contact, non-responsiveness to their name, a lack of mimicking expressions, and no attempt to reach out during interactive play. Autistic children may also show little interest in conventional developmental activities and social imitation.

These indicators often emerge between one to eighteen months of age, becoming more prominent as the child grows and social interactions increase. By the age of three, it is common for children to actively engage with peers and toys; however, children with ASD may prefer solitary play and have a diminished interest in toys. By the age of four, a child with autism might markedly disregard the presence of peers during preschool or group settings, highlighting differences in social engagement.

4. Emotional Outbursts

Children with autism may sometimes have atypical emotional reactions to everyday events, potentially resulting in extreme responses such as intense tantrums or aggression towards themselves or others. Exhibiting a lack of control over their emotions and actions can be particularly pronounced in unfamiliar or stressful situations. Parents are encouraged to attentively observe their child's social and emotional development, being mindful of key milestones and expected behaviors for their age. If unusual emotional outbursts persist, it is important to document these incidents. Detailed records can be invaluable when discussing concerns with a healthcare provider, as they may assist in the diagnostic process should an Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) be suspected.

5. Delayed Language Development

By the time a child reaches three years, it is common for them to emulate speech patterns and start babbling, often articulating single words to identify objects or seek parental attention. Conversely, children diagnosed with autism may exhibit delayed speech development, sometimes not demonstrating noticeable language abilities until they engage in specialized speech therapy.

Developmental milestones can serve as a guideline for typical language progression: at 12 months, it is expected that a child will communicate using simple words; by 18 months, their vocabulary should include a minimum of six words; at the age of two, they should begin to form basic two-word combinations; and by three years old, complete basic sentences should be achieved. A deviation from these milestones, especially when accompanied by other indicative behaviors, may suggest autism and warrants further evaluation.

6. Prone to Non-Verbal Communication

Children with autism often experience delayed verbal communication development, leading to a reliance on non-verbal methods such as drawing or gesturing to express themselves and interact. Regressive behavior in verbal skills is also a characteristic sign of autism, where children may lose previously acquired vocabulary or revert to earlier communication stages. Observing a child's interactions with peers and adults is crucial, as those with autism might communicate less verbally and may have difficulties understanding the nuances of gestural exchanges. It's important to monitor these signs for early identification and support.

7. Difficulty Understanding Figurative Expressions

Children with autism frequently find it challenging to grasp figurative language, as they may not infer additional meanings from people's mannerisms or facial expressions. Similarly, they may struggle to pick up on conversational cues signaled through variations in tone, making it difficult for them to differentiate between tones of happiness, sadness, or anger. This can extend to a reduced ability to identify sarcasm or comprehend non-verbal communication such as body language.

In addition, these children might experience difficulty in distinguishing reality from fantasy. While many young children possess active imaginations and do not fully grasp the distinction between actuality and make-believe, children with autism often perceive no boundary between the two. Notably, some autistic children exhibit a particularly rich imagination, occasionally showing a preference for engaging with their own fantastical creations.

8. Repetitive Behaviors

Individuals on the autism spectrum often exhibit repetitive behaviors, which is a hallmark symptom of the condition. These behaviors can include the meticulous ordering of objects, persistent rocking, hand-flapping, or the continual repetition of words and phrases. Such tendencies are among the first indicators of autism that parents may notice during early childhood development.

Children with autism may also experience challenges with motor skills, which can become evident when they struggle with tasks such.Other children at the same developmental stage might easily manage these tasks, creating clear and recognizable drawings, whereas autistic children might produce less structured shapes. Despite occasional interest in varied activities, a return to repetitive behaviors could indicate the presence of an autism spectrum disorder.

9. Pica

Individuals with autism, spanning from children to adults, may exhibit a condition called pica—a compelling tendency to ingest non-edible items. For example, vigilant supervision may be necessary to prevent the consumption of substances like soil, clay, or adhesive when in unsupervised settings such as outdoor environments or schools. Additionally, there is a tendency for autistic individuals to frequently place fingers or other non-safe objects in their mouths, and they might try to chew or swallow these items. It is intriguing to note that pica has been observed in pregnant women too, though a direct correlation between pica during pregnancy and subsequent autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in offspring remains to be established.

Pica carries considerable health risks, including increased susceptibility to bacterial infections and potential for internal injuries. While ingestion of non-food items can occur briefly in many children's developmental stages, a distinguishing characteristic in individuals with autism is the persistence of this behavior into older childhood, often despite cognizance of the inedibility of such items. This highlights the need for ongoing awareness and precautionary measures to protect the well-being of those affected by this condition.

10. Sensitivity to External Stimuli

Heightened sensitivity to sensory input is a commonly observed early indicator of autism spectrum disorder. Individuals with autism may experience intense stress or discomfort in response to particular sounds, luminosity levels, or specific olfactory, gustatory, or tactile stimuli. They often exhibit a preference for – or an aversion to – certain textures, colors, or clothing. Enhanced sensory input, such as a predilection for brightly lit environments or particular sounds, may also be sought by those on the spectrum. Autistic children might show signs of emotional distress if they are unable to engage with their preferred sensory experiences.

Conversely, they may exhibit avoidance behaviors towards stimuli that are perceived as unpleasant, which can lead to pronounced outbursts or tantrums when confronted with such situations. This atypical response is thought to stem from a unique sensory processing pattern in autistic individuals, affecting their behavior and emotional responses.

11. Obsessive Behaviors

Children with autism may exhibit signs of behavioral inflexibility as they grow and engage more with their surroundings. These symptomatic behaviors often manifest as repetitive and obsessive actions. For instance, a child might repeatedly indulge in a particular, sometimes atypical, activity that captivates their interest.

As outlined by Helpguide.org, older children may demonstrate an insistence on sameness, such as adhering strictly to familiar routes to school, struggling with unanticipated changes in schedule, or displaying a strong fixation on certain objects or narrow subjects, often characterized by a focus on numerical or symbolic information. This can extend to repetitive engagement with specific movements or parts of an object – spending extensive time observing a moving item like a ceiling fan or repetitively spinning the wheels of a toy car rather than playing with the toy as a whole.

12. Lack of Communication

Derived from slide 5 which identifies delayed language development as a preliminary indicator of autism, HealthyChildren.org elaborates that affected children typically exhibit broad communication challenges. These children may be nonverbal or exhibit substantial delays in language skills. Frequently, they show no inclination towards engaging in communication, evident through a lack of interest in initiating or participating in conversations. They often fail to respond to facial cues, do not acknowledge their names being called, and may not gesture to indicate their needs. When verbal expression begins, their speech may be rudimentary and prone to errors, such as pronoun reversals or echolalia, the tendency to repeat heard phrases without comprehending their content, as noted by HealthyChildren.org.

13. Seemingly Unresponsive

Autism Canada suggests that signs of autism may manifest between 12 to 24 months of age. Though a diagnosis prior to 24 months is challenging, observing the absence of typical behaviors can be a significant marker. As children mature, other indicators become more discernible, and even in infancy, levels of responsiveness to the environment offer clues to potential developmental concerns.

Individuals with autism might exhibit signs of unresponsiveness that can indicate their condition. According to HelpGuide.org, early warning signs include not engaging in eye contact, failing to recognize familiar voices, not tracking objects visually, or not acknowledging gestures like pointing. Additionally, affected children might not mimic expressions or movements, seek attention through sounds, or use communicative gestures, including waving or smiling. These early signs warrant professional evaluation to ensure timely support and intervention.

14. Don’t Like Being Touched or Cuddled

Discovering a child's developmental challenge can be a profound concern for any parent. With autism, however, timely detection is essential and can be transformative. Ideally identified by 18 months, early diagnosis significantly influences outcomes. As children transition from infancy, behavioral indications may emerge. For instance, a child with autism may exhibit aversion to physical contact, contrasting with typical developmental expectations. Autism Canada highlights this characteristic, noting the potential complexities it introduces during moments of distress and the broader implications for forming emotional bonds with family members and peers. Addressing such symptoms with appropriate interventions can enhance the child's social and emotional development.

Is My Teen Showing Signs of Schizophrenia?

Schizophrenia is a condition that affects approximately 2.7 million individuals in the United States, with onset frequently occurring during adolescence. The identification of schizophrenia in its initial stages can be challenging, as early symptoms may masquerade as typical teenage behaviors, such as withdrawal, changing personality traits, and irritability.It is important to recognize that the diagnosis of schizophrenia involves the observation of a constellation of symptoms, rather than isolated incidents of moodiness or behavioral changes. Therefore, occasional adolescent mood fluctuations should not be immediately construed as indicative of this mental health disorder. A comprehensive evaluation by a medical professional is crucial for an accurate diagnosis.For those concerned about the mental health of a teenager, being attentive to multiple persistent, aberrant behaviors is recommended. Should such concerns arise, the prudent course of action is to seek advice from a healthcare provider.

Withdrawal

Individuals with schizophrenia frequently exhibit tendencies towards social withdrawal and isolation. It is not uncommon to observe that someone who was once sociable and outgoing may begin to prefer solitude and exhibit heightened suspicion and paranoia concerning the motives of those around them.

Lack of Emotions

An indicative symptom of schizophrenia includes diminished emotional expression, commonly known as "flat affect." This condition may manifest by a noticeable absence of emotional responses, such as an inability to express joy, cry, or an uncontrolled occurrence of crying or laughter. An individual with flat affect might seem disinterested during situations that typically evoke stress or emotion, and might maintain an impassive facial expression, even when engaged in conversation.

It is essential to discern if a teenager's behavior is characteristic of typical adolescent moodiness or suggestive of a more significant concern. While mood swings and irritability are common in adolescents, consistently blank, unresponsive behaviors that extend beyond the norm could warrant further evaluation. Moreover, incongruous emotional responses, such as laughing in somber circumstances, might also be indicative of an underlying issue. For authoritative information, WebMD suggests these signs should not be overlooked, as they could be indicative of a mental health condition.

Insomnia

Individuals in the initial phases of schizophrenia often experience disrupted sleep patterns, frequently finding themselves awake during the night, engaging in activities such as reading, watching television, or using a computer due to sleeplessness. The resulting insomnia may cause considerable fatigue and concentration difficulties, potentially contributing to an onset of apathy towards daily life.

Unexplained Hostility

Alterations in one's fundamental personality can manifest rapidly, especially in the form of increased hostility toward authority figures such as teachers, parents, and supervisors. This behavioral shift may stem from an underlying struggle to concentrate or manage effectively with routine tasks and challenges, potentially leading to abrupt episodes of anger or aggression.

Sudden Lack of Hygiene

A significant indicator of potential mental health concerns is a marked deterioration in fundamental personal hygiene practices. Although it might be tempting to dismiss such changes as normal adolescent tendencies, they are particularly concerning during a period typically characterized by heightened self-awareness due to hormonal shifts. The avoidance of routine hygiene, such as regular teeth brushing, the continuous wearing of unclean garments, and the reluctance to bathe, may signal the presence of deeper psychological challenges that require attention.

Decline in Social Relationships

Adolescents experiencing a heightened need for solitude may also withdraw from previously robust social connections and established pursuits. Such individuals might display a marked disinterest in maintaining friendships or participating in familiar athletic endeavors and recreational hobbies once pursued with dedication. Additionally, students with a history of high academic achievement may exhibit a concerning decline in scholastic engagement. According to WebMD, these behavioral changes may be indicative of challenges faced by individuals with schizophrenia, which can include difficulties in forming friendships and interpreting social cues, often leading to pronounced isolation.

Sensitive to Noise and Light

Heightened and abrupt sensitivities to environmental factors, including pronounced sounds, strong lighting, and vibrant colors, might suggest the presence of a mental health issue. In particular, persistent noise from environments with dense crowds can lead to agitation or severe withdrawal in individuals with schizophrenia.

Self-Inflicted Harm

Individuals diagnosed with schizophrenia may exhibit behaviors that increase their vulnerability to harm, such as engaging in hazardous activities or substance abuse. Additionally, persons with schizophrenia may unexpectedly alter their physical appearance in an uncharacteristic manner, and they are at an increased risk of self-injurious behaviors, underscoring the need for attentive care and intervention.

Escapism

An additional early indicator of schizophrenia may be the tendency for escapism, where adolescents seek distraction from the regularities of daily life through imaginative activities or entertainment such as television and video games. Moreover, these individuals might occasionally absent themselves for extended durations, often without any given reason, especially after experiencing conflicts.

Recoil to Human Contact

Individuals with schizophrenia may often exhibit a tendency to withdraw from physical contact. This behavior can manifest as a reluctance to engage in touch or a pronounced response when touched by others. In some cases, patients may exhibit protective measures by wrapping their hands with paper or donning gloves, persistently keeping them on to avoid direct skin contact.

Abnormal Motor Behavior

According to WebMD, observable behavioral alterations are common symptoms of schizophrenia, which may include diminished personal hygiene and a decrease in social interaction. Additionally, one might witness awkward or irregular movements in the face or body. The National Institute of Mental Health categorizes these symptoms as a type of "movement disorder," often manifesting as agitated bodily motions. The Mayo Clinic elucidates that such behavioral anomalies can span a wide emotional range, from child-like frivolity to sudden agitation. The affected individual's actions might lack clear purpose, complicating the completion of tasks. Behaviors can vary from defiance to instructions, adopting inappropriate or strange postures, unresponsiveness, or engaging in aimless, excessive movements.

Delusions

A critical aspect of schizophrenia diagnosis involves the presence of delusions and hallucinations, as identified by the National Institute of Mental Health. Termed "positive symptoms," these manifestations include not only delusions and hallucinations but also thought and movement disorders, which are atypical in the general population. Delusions often take the form of pervasive paranoia, leading individuals to believe they are the subject of others' conversations or pursuit or to hold convictions of possessing unique talents or impending global calamities, according to WebMD. Complicating treatment, patients may struggle to distinguish between these delusions, media, and their dreams, regarding such experiences as genuine despite their lack of factual basis. Recognizing the non-reality of these beliefs is vital for understanding and addressing the condition effectively.

Hallucinations

Hallucinations, often accompanying delusions, are sensory perceptions that lack a basis in reality. Although perceived as vivid and genuine by the individual, these phenomena are the result of cognitive misrepresentations. As outlined by HelpGuide.org, hallucinations can involve any of the senses; however, auditory hallucinations, such as hearing non-existent voices, are most prevalent. The Mayo Clinic reaffirms this, noting that individuals with schizophrenia may experience these hallucinations with all the intensity of ordinary sensory experiences, despite the absence of external stimuli.

Disorganized Speech and Thinking

One of the subtler indicators of emerging schizophrenia in adolescents may be a transformation in cognitive function, often exhibiting as difficulty in maintaining concentration or following a coherent thought sequence. This alteration may not be overtly visible but can manifest in their academic performance or become apparent during conversations when they shift erratically between topics. Educators and guardians can provide valuable insights by observing changes in engagement and academic results. According to WebMD, adolescents may also exhibit persistent preoccupation with past events and develop illogical beliefs, such as suspecting theft by parents or feeling possessed by supernatural entities. Communication may become disjointed, with an inclination toward self-dialogue, erratic subject changes, and sometimes incomprehensible speech. Additionally, these individuals may struggle with short-term memory, particularly in processing new information effectively.

Unique & Fun Food Crafts For Kids

Children often relish interactive experiences, particularly when it comes to playtime activities that incorporate food. Engaging in food crafts presents an excellent opportunity to cultivate a child's interest in culinary arts, including cooking and baking, while also providing a delightful solution to hunger and ennui. Below is a curated selection of ten enticing food craft ideas that are sure to captivate your child's imagination and appetite.

Creamed Honey Apple Dippers

Delight your child with an ideal afternoon treat – our nutritious and delectable snack that doubles as a fun craft activity. Feel confident about their wholesome indulgence with this specially curated recipe by Rachel Kor.

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Healthy Snack Bracelet Craft

This delightful craft presents an excellent opportunity for parents to bond with their children, providing a perfect activity for a rainy afternoon or to satisfy a sweet craving. Consider selecting ingredients together at your local bulk food store to make it a special "parent and child" outing. The recipe is adaptable to each child's preferences, allowing for a selection of fruit and soft snacks that cater to their tastes while omitting any unappealing items. Indulge in this creative and enjoyable snack-making experience.

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Edible Paint

Allow your child to unleash their creativity with an enjoyable and unique craft experience that occasionally incorporates a delightful twist—edible sugary "paint". Diversify their canvas by opting for alternatives to white bread such as cookies, cupcakes, or pancakes. This delightful activity is brought to you by Kids Craft Room, providing a wonderful opportunity for artistic expression with a tasty outcome.

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Rice Krispie Treat Monsters

Rice Krispies have stood the test of time as a universally cherished kitchen staple, celebrated for their simplicity and their remarkable ability to please even the most selective palates. They present an ideal opportunity for engaging children in the kitchen—encouraging creativity and family fun by incorporating playful elements like candy eyes and teeth to add a delightful twist to these classic treats. Discover the full recipe and get inspired by the accompanying image at One Little Project.

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Edible Marshmallow Slime

Currently, slime has become an incredibly popular activity among children of school age. However, the components often found in slime can pose a toxicity risk and may harm young, sensitive skin. The advisable alternative is to create a safe, edible version. Since children frequently interact with their food in a playful manner, transforming the slime into a safe, edible concoction could serve as both a fun and secure activity.

Easy Apple Donuts

Savor the delightful and wholesome goodness of our apple donuts. Crafted with crisp apple slices and topped with luscious cream cheese, these treats provide a perfect balance of flavor without the mess of traditional fried donuts or the inevitable sugar crash. Ideal for breakfast or any guilt-free indulgence. Discover the full recipe and view our appetizing presentation at Hello Wonderful.

DIY Rock Candy

Discover the perfect blend of education and enjoyment for any aspiring young scientist with a penchant for sweets. Engage in a delightful activity that not only brings back fond memories but also bears the sweet rewards of patience and curiosity. Encourage your child to partake in this delightful experiment and observe the delicious results of their efforts over the course of a few weeks.

Cheerio Self Portraits

For this culinary art project, simply pick up several varieties of Cheerios—multigrain, honey nut, and chocolate—on your next visit to the supermarket. An added benefit of this activity is that once the crafting is complete, you will have a surplus of cereal to enjoy for breakfast in the weeks to follow. Detailed guidelines, along with a photo, are available courtesy of The Chaos and The Clutter here.

Rainbow S’mores Dip

Indulge in an exceptional culinary delight that's ideal for post-dinner enjoyment or enhancing your family night. Experience a spectrum of flavors that redefine the essence of a vibrant taste experience.

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Gingerbread House

Gingerbread creations are not solely reserved for holiday festivities. Expand your culinary craft to any season by constructing a charming gingerbread sandcastle or an adorable gingerbread dog house. Tailor the design to delight your child's imagination. Embrace this versatile food craft to transform any day into a special occasion.