Early childhood is an exciting time, full of rapid growth and development. As your child learns to communicate, interact, and explore the world around them, you probably notice new skills appearing every day.
However, if your child seems delayed in reaching certain developmental milestones or exhibits unusual behaviors, you can rely on our team at Northeast Pediatric Associates PA to take a closer look to determine the root cause.
When you recognize the early signs of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), we’re here to provide guidance and support as early as possible.
Here are seven early signs of autism spectrum disorder that parents and caregivers shouldn’t ignore:
Most babies naturally make eye contact with you as the caregiver, especially during feeding, play, or when being spoken to. Children with ASD may avoid eye contact or make little of it, which can make social interactions feel different from what you expect.
One of the most common early indicators of autism is a delay in speech development. Some children may not begin speaking at the typical age, while others may stop using words they previously learned.
Difficulty forming sentences or understanding simple instructions can also be a sign.
By around 9-12 months, most children turn toward or react to someone calling their name. Children with autism may not respond consistently, even if their hearing is normal. This might initially cause you to suspect hearing issues. That’s why it’s so important to make an appointment with our team for an accurate diagnosis.
Children naturally seek connection with others through smiles, gestures, and shared play. A child with ASD may appear less interested in engaging with others, preferring to play alone or showing little interest in interacting with family members or other children.
Repetitive movements or behaviors are another early sign of autism. These might include:
Though many children enjoy repetition, frequent or intense patterns may signal developmental differences.
Children with autism may be especially sensitive to sounds, lights, textures, or smells. For example, they might cover their ears to everyday noises, refuse certain clothing because of texture, or become overwhelmed in busy environments.
Many children prefer routines, but children with ASD may become extremely upset when routines change. Even small changes, like a different route to school or a new bedtime schedule, can cause significant distress.
Early identification of Autism Spectrum Disorder allows you to access developmental evaluations, therapy, and supportive resources sooner. We are able to assist with referrals to We provide early intervention services to help children strengthen their communication, social, and learning skills during their critical developmental years.
If you notice several of these signs or have concerns about your child’s development, speak with one of our pediatric healthcare providers. Early support can make a meaningful difference in helping your child reach their full potential.
Give us a call today to schedule an appointment or book online for convenience. We have offices in Northeast San Antonio, North Central San Antonio, Schertz, Bulverde, and Castroville, Texas.
