Early Signs of Autism in Children: What Parents Should Look For
If you’ve landed here, chances are you’ve been up at 2am googling “why won’t my child sleep, eat, or stop lining up the crayons?” Been there. Autism can look a hundred different ways depending on the child, but there are some early signs that make parents stop and think, “Hmm… is this just a quirk, or something more?”
I’m not a doctor (just a battle-tested sensory mum), so take this as real-life guidance you can nod along with—not medical advice. Here’s what to look for, plus what to actually do if your gut is telling you something.
🔑 What Are the First Signs of Autism?
Some of the most common early signs parents notice:
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Delayed or different speech and communication.
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Little or no eye contact.
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Fascination with routines and repetition.
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Sensory reactions to noise, textures, or lights.
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Preferring to play alone rather than with peers.
(Tip: don’t tick off boxes like it’s a shopping list—autism is a spectrum, and every child’s mix of traits looks different.)
👶 Autism Signs in Toddlers (1–3 Years)
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Not pointing at things to share interest (“Look, mum!” moments).
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Doesn’t wave, clap, or copy simple gestures.
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Limited pretend play (not really “feeding” the teddy bear).
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Speech delays or only saying a few words.
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Plays the same way over and over (spinning wheels, lining up toys).
🧒 Autism Signs in Preschool & School-Age Kids (4+ Years)
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Repeats phrases or quotes TV shows (echolalia).
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Intense interests (dinosaurs, buses, birthdays… you name it).
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Meltdowns in noisy or chaotic places.
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Struggles with friendships or social “rules.”
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Super literal—doesn’t always get jokes or sarcasm.
😴 Hidden Signs Parents Don’t Always Expect
This is where most generic blogs stop… but real life throws in curveballs:
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Sleep battles: can’t settle, wakes at 2am ready to party.
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Eating issues: beige diets, gagging at veggies, only eats five safe foods.
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Meltdowns vs. tantrums: a sensory overload is not the same as a strop (and yes, the dirty looks from strangers are brutal).
👉 I’ve written separate deep-dives on these—check out my sleep hub, Eating Hub, and Meltdown Survival posts for the gritty details.
🧾 When to Talk to a GP or Health Visitor
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If you notice consistent patterns, not just one-offs.
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If your gut says, “Something’s different here.”
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Ask for a referral to a paediatrician (yes, it feels scary, but it opens doors to support).
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Early understanding doesn’t “label” your child—it helps them thrive.
💡 What to Do If You’re Worried
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Keep a diary of behaviours—saves you going blank at appointments.
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Video clips can help show what you mean.
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Connect with autism parent groups—you’ll learn more there than from most leaflets.
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Remember: autism isn’t a tragedy. Support and acceptance are the game-changers.
❓ FAQs
What age do autism signs usually appear?
Often between 1–3 years, but sometimes later when social demands increase.Can autism be mild?
Autism is a spectrum. Some children need a lot of support, others less—but all are valid.Is late talking always autism?
Nope. Some kids just take their sweet time. But combined with other signs, it’s worth checking.
Do sensory issues mean autism?
Not always, but it’s common in autistic children.
If you see your child in some of these signs, you’re not alone—and you’re not failing as a parent. Autism doesn’t need fixing. What our kids need is understanding, support, and for us to stop apologising for them being their brilliant, authentic selves.
💜 Want to dive deeper? Check out my Sleep Help Hub and Meltdown Hub—because life with a sensory-smart kid is never dull.
Please check out our other posts that may help you ....
Tantrums vs Meldowns - what's the difference?
Check out our YOUTUBE Channel also for more tips, sensory videos and parent humour 💜
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