The early signs of autism: what parents should know

Many parents take a wait-and-see approach, hoping their child will "start talking soon" or "catch up along the way". With autism, though, early intervention is the critical factor that can change the course of a child's development.

Here are some of the most common early signs that warrant an assessment by a specialist:

Little or no eye contact

The child does not look you in the eye when you speak to them or try to engage them. It can feel as though their gaze goes straight through you.

Not responding to their name

By around 12 months, most children turn their head when called. If your child seems not to hear you, or repeatedly ignores their name, that is worth paying attention to.

Delays in language

No babbling by 12 months, no single words by 16 months, or no two-word phrases by 24 months are all significant indicators.

Repetitive behaviours

Hand flapping, body rocking, or a strong focus on lining objects and toys up rather than playing with them functionally.

"Early intervention is not just one option among several. It is a child's best chance of reaching their full potential."