Signs of autism in a one-year-old can be challenging because many behaviors are familiar to most babies and toddlers – such as those listed below. However, there are some red flags that you may notice when it comes to your child’s development, which can point to autism spectrum disorder (ASD). If you suspect your little one has ASD, schedule an appointment with their pediatrician as soon as possible, but remember that not all children with ASD will exhibit these behaviors.
1) The first sign – is delayed babbling
One of the earliest signs of autism is delayed babbling. Most babies start babbling around 4-6 months old, but a baby with autism may not start babbling until much later – sometimes not until they’re one year old or older. If your child isn’t babbling by 12 months, it’s worth mentioning to your pediatrician. They might recommend an evaluation for delays in communication and social development.
Babies who are late talkers often have trouble learning language skills as they age, making it challenging to communicate their needs and wants to others.
Children who are late talkers must receive therapy early on so that their language skills don’t continue to lag.
2) Another early sign – hand flapping
One of the earliest signs of autism is hand flapping. If you notice your 1-year-old waving their arms around in an unusual way, it could be a sign that they are autistic. If you’re concerned, talk to your child’s doctor. Other early symptoms of autism include:
| Symptom | Description |
| 1 | Not making eye contact. |
| 2 | Not responding to their name. |
| 3 | Not smiling when you smile at them. |
If you have concerns about your one-year-old, take them to their pediatrician.
A diagnosis of autism can come later because many children on the spectrum aren’t diagnosed until age 3 or 4.
A diagnosis doesn’t mean there is no hope for improvement, though – many kids diagnosed with autism make great strides with therapy and medication, some becoming indistinguishable from other kids!
3) Lack of eye contact at 12 months
At 12 months, autistic babies may avoid eye contact or have difficulty making eye contact. This can be one of the earliest signs of autism. If your baby isn’t making eye contact, you must talk to your doctor. They will do a developmental assessment and ensure no other reasons for this behavior, such as something in their environment or a problem with their vision. You should also keep track of any other symptoms so you can report them to your doctor at your next appointment.
4) Unusual sensory behaviors
One of the most common signs of autism in young children is unusual sensory behaviors. This can manifest in several ways, such as being overly sensitive to specific sounds or textures or needing constant movement. If you notice your child exhibiting any of these behaviors, it’s worth seeking a professional opinion. Many other conditions could be causing these same symptoms, so a diagnosis from an expert will be necessary.
5) Not responding to their name by 14 months
If you call your child’s name and they don’t respond, it could signify that they’re autistic. Try contacting their name from different distances and in different tones to see if they react. If they still don’t respond, it could be cause for concern. Observe the rest of their behavior to determine whether or not there are other signs of autism. Does your child have repetitive movements? Do they have difficulty maintaining eye contact? Do they avoid physical contact with others? These may also be indications of autism.
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Some relevant articles related to signs of autism in a one-year-old include:
What’s It Like Living With Autism?
What Can I Do To Help My Child With Autism?
If you suspect your child has been affected by these signs, please consult their doctor for more information.
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