6 Childhood Signs of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition characterized by difficulties with social interactions, verbal and nonverbal communication, and repetitive behaviors. 

It’s referred to as a “spectrum” because the traits and severity of the condition range from person to person. 

Sometimes, children show telltale signs of autism in infancy. However, in a majority of cases, autism starts presenting around age 2-3, with children receiving an official diagnosis by age five. 

One of the best things you can do as a parent or caregiver of a child with autism is recognize the early signs of the condition. The more services and interventions your child has when they’re young, the more likely they are to live a full and independent life later on. 

Because early intervention is so key for kids with autism, our team at RapidRecovery TMS in Wilmington, North Carolina, wants to discuss six common signs of autism spectrum disorder that can appear in childhood. 

1. Communication difficulties

Almost all children with autism have speech differences or communication difficulties. This can manifest in a number of ways, including:

• Using only nonverbal communication
• Speaking in scripts gained from TV shows or previous conversations (parroting)
• Talking with an unusual rhythm or tone
• Using phrases in a conversation that don’t make contextual sense

Children with autism also often have delayed speech development. Sometimes, they may stay on track for speech development and then experience a regression around age 15-18 months.

2. Social interaction struggles

Social skills are often a struggle for children with autism. These are some things you might notice about your child’s social interactions: 

• Wanting to only play by themselves
• Lacking the ability to carry a back-and-forth conversation or social interaction
• Avoiding eye contact during conversation
• Not responding to their name when you call them
• Lacking awareness of other people’s emotions and nonverbal conversation cues

Autistic children may also have a severe lack of interest in interacting with peers, wanting only to play next to other kids rather than with them. 

3. Sensory sensitivities 

It’s common for children with autism to have heightened sensory sensitivity. Your child may crave sensory stimulation in the form of loud noises, hugs and cuddling, specific textures, or certain smells. They may also become very distressed by loud noises, strong smells, itchy clothing, or bright lights. 

4. Behavioral differences 

Children with autism often have patterns of behavior that differ from their peers. Your child may have minimal interests or feel the need to follow very strict routines. Here are some other behaviors commonly seen in kids with autism:

• Becoming upset at a slight change in their daily routine
• Having interests associated with people younger or older than them
• Getting “stuck” on certain ideas, thoughts, or interactions
• Having a low tolerance for stress or new situations

They may also be at increased risk for self-harming behaviors. 

5. Unique movements

In some cases, children with autism will “stim” or self-stimulate. While this can look unusual to others, it’s comforting for them. Common stims you may see your child do include flapping their hands, walking on their toes, rocking back and forth, or spinning. 

Sometimes, kids with autism may struggle with coordination. So, you may notice your child walking awkwardly or stiffly or having difficulty holding a pencil or catching a ball. 

6. Personal styles of play

Oftentimes, kids with autism find their own unique way of playing. They might have no interest in make-believe or pretend play, preferring to line up objects or stuff them in containers. They may also fixate on certain aspects of toys, such as a spinning wheel, rather than enjoy the toy itself. 

Rules of joint play activities, such as sports, may also be difficult for them to follow or understand. 

At RapidRecovery TMS, we offer comprehensive autism care unique to each individual. If you suspect that your child might have autism, our team can recommend the best course of action. 

To get started, schedule a consultation by calling 910-557-8165 or using our online booking feature today.