1 year old Archives - Living with Autism

5 Signs Your 1-Year Old May Be Autistic

DrorAr101 — Sat, 31 May 2025 08:01:49 +0000

Table of Contents

5 Signs Your 1-Year-Old May Be Autistic

TL;DR: 5 Early Autism Signs in 1-Year-Olds | Quick Guide for Parents

TL;DR SUMMARY

5 Signs Your 1-Year-Old May Be Autistic

Quick guide for early autism detection in babies

Quick Read: 2-3 minutes | Original Article: Read Full Post

5 Early Autism Signs in 1-Year-Olds:

Delayed Babbling – No babbling by 12 months (typical: 4-6 months)
Hand Flapping – Unusual repetitive arm movements
Lack of Eye Contact – Avoiding or difficulty maintaining eye contact
Unusual Sensory Behaviors – Extreme reactions to sounds/textures
Not Responding to Name – No response by 14 months

Delayed Babbling

Most babies start babbling around 4-6 months, but babies with autism may not start until 12 months or later. This delay can impact future language development.

Normal: 4-6 months | Concern: No babbling by 12 months

Hand Flapping

Repetitive hand or arm movements that seem unusual or excessive. This stimming behavior is one of the earliest observable signs of autism in young children.

Watch for: Repetitive, unusual arm movements

Lack of Eye Contact

By 12 months, babies typically make and maintain eye contact during interactions. Autistic babies may consistently avoid eye contact or have difficulty sustaining it.

Expected: Consistent eye contact by 12 months

Unusual Sensory Behaviors

Extreme sensitivity to sounds, textures, or lights, or conversely, seeking intense sensory input through constant movement or touching.

Watch for: Extreme sensory reactions or seeking

Not Responding to Name

By 14 months, children should consistently turn or respond when their name is called from various distances and tones. Lack of response may indicate hearing issues or autism.

Expected: Consistent name response by 14 months

Key Takeaways

Early detection matters: Identifying signs early leads to better outcomes with intervention
Not all signs = autism: Individual behaviors don’t confirm autism – look for patterns
Diagnosis timing: Formal diagnosis typically occurs around ages 3-4, but early intervention can start sooner
Professional assessment needed: Only qualified medical professionals can diagnose autism
Every child is unique: Development varies, so compare patterns rather than isolated behaviors

If You Notice These Signs

Don’t wait. Contact your pediatrician immediately to discuss your concerns and request a developmental assessment. Early intervention can make a significant difference.

Read Complete Guide →

Medical Disclaimer: This summary is for educational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. If you have concerns about your child’s development, please consult with a qualified healthcare provider or developmental pediatrician for proper evaluation and guidance.

Signs of autism in a one-year-old can be challenging. Many behaviors are familiar to most babies and toddlers. These include those listed below. However, you may notice some red flags in your child’s development. These 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. 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. However, a baby with autism may not start babbling until much later. Sometimes, they may not start 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. This makes it challenging for them 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 in an unusual way, it might indicate autism. 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.

Early symptoms of autism

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. Many kids diagnosed with autism make great strides with therapy and medication. Some even become 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. You must talk to your doctor if your baby isn’t making eye contact. They will do a developmental assessment. They will ensure there are no other reasons for this behavior. Possible causes include something in their environment or a problem with their vision. You should also keep track of any other symptoms. Then, 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 these behaviors, seeking a professional opinion is worth it. 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

When you call your child’s name and they don’t respond, it could signify that they’re autistic. Try calling their names from different distances and 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.

About 101Autism.com

This site is about the daily life of a family with an autistic member. It shares the moments of glory and the agony of pain.

On this site, we will expose scenarios from our daily lives, and we will share those stories with you.

We encounter numerous products daily that impact our lives. We want to share these experiences with you by showcasing as many products as possible. We hope you find it helpful!

This site will show pictures of real-life families living with autism. We hope they inspire and guide you in your journey through autism!

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.

Early Signs of Autism

Autism Signs in 1-Year-Old Babies: Complete FAQ Guide

Frequently Asked Questions About Autism in 1-Year-Old Babies

Expert guidance on recognizing early signs of autism spectrum disorder and supporting your child’s development.

How can I tell if my 1-year-old baby has autism?

Detecting signs of autism in 1-year-old babies can be challenging, as some behaviors are typical in most infants. However, certain red flags you might notice in your child’s development could indicate autism spectrum disorder (ASD).

Important: It’s essential to consult with a pediatrician to evaluate your concerns and determine the appropriate steps. Only qualified medical professionals can provide accurate assessments.

What are some potential signs of autism in 1-year-olds?

While it’s crucial to remember that not all children with ASD will exhibit these behaviors, here are some signs that might suggest autism in a 1-year-old:

Delayed babbling: Most babies start babbling around 4-6 months old. A baby with autism may not begin babbling until much later.
Hand flapping: This involves unusual arm movements. For instance, waving their arms around in a distinctive way could be a sign of autism.
Lack of eye contact: Autistic babies may avoid eye contact or have difficulty maintaining it.
Unusual sensory behaviors: Sensory sensitivities or seeking behaviors might be observed, such as reacting strongly to specific sounds or textures.
Not responding to their name: If your 1-year-old doesn’t react or respond when called, it could be cause for concern.

Should I be worried if my baby exhibits these signs?

It’s essential to be proactive and consult with your child’s pediatrician if you notice any potential signs of autism. Remember, a proper diagnosis can only be made by a medical professional experienced in child development.

Key Point: Early intervention and therapy can significantly affect the outcome for children with autism. Don’t wait to seek professional guidance.

Is it normal for a 1-year-old to show delays in communication skills?

While every child develops at their own pace, significant delays in communication skills should be addressed. This includes delays in babbling or attempts to communicate needs and wants.

Discuss these concerns with a healthcare provider. Early intervention services can support a child’s language development and communication skills effectively.

Can a diagnosis of autism be made at one year old?

In most cases, a formal diagnosis of autism is not typically made until around age 3 or 4. However, if you have concerns about your 1-year-old’s development, discussing them with a pediatrician is essential.

They can perform a developmental assessment, provide guidance, and recommend necessary interventions even before a formal diagnosis is possible.

What developmental milestones should my 1-year-old be reaching?

By 12 months, most babies should be able to:

Say “mama” and “dada” with meaning
Wave goodbye
Point to objects they want
Understand simple commands like “no”
Show affection to familiar people
Play simple games like peek-a-boo
Try to imitate sounds and actions

If your child isn’t meeting several of these milestones, discuss it with your pediatrician.

How early can autism intervention begin?

Early intervention can begin as soon as concerns are identified, even before a formal diagnosis. Research shows that intensive early intervention during the preschool years can significantly improve outcomes for children with autism.

Services may include speech therapy, occupational therapy, behavioral therapy, and developmental support programs specifically designed for very young children.

What should I do if I suspect my baby has autism?

If you have concerns about your baby’s development:

Document your observations: Keep notes about specific behaviors and when they occur
Schedule a pediatric appointment: Discuss your concerns with your child’s doctor
Request a developmental screening: Ask for formal developmental assessments
Seek early intervention services: Don’t wait for a diagnosis to begin supportive therapies
Connect with support groups: Find other parents and resources in your community

Are there any red flags I should watch for in social development?

Social development red flags in 1-year-olds may include:

Not smiling back when smiled at
Limited or no eye contact during interactions
Not showing interest in peek-a-boo or similar games
Not showing objects to parents or caregivers
Seeming unaware when people come and go
Not seeking comfort when distressed

Remember, some children are naturally less social, but a combination of these signs warrants professional evaluation.

How reliable are autism screening tools for 1-year-olds?

Screening tools like the M-CHAT (Modified Checklist for Autism in Toddlers) are designed for children 16-30 months old and are most reliable after 18 months. For 1-year-olds, developmental assessments focus more on milestone tracking and behavioral observations.

Professional Assessment: Always rely on qualified developmental pediatricians or child psychologists for accurate evaluation rather than online screening tools alone.

Need Professional Guidance?

If you have concerns about your child’s development, don’t hesitate to consult with your pediatrician. Early detection and intervention can make a significant positive impact on your child’s development and your family’s journey.

Remember, it is crucial to seek professional advice from a healthcare provider. They should specialize in child development. Do this if you suspect your child may be exhibiting signs of autism.

For more information and resources about autism, you can visit 101Autism.com.

Please consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice and guidance.

Autism in 1-year-old

DrorAr101 — Tue, 24 Mar 2020 17:29:21 +0000

I’m Rebecca Landa director of the Centerof autism and related disorders atennedy Krieger Institute you are about o watch a brief tutorial illustrating the early signs of autism spectrum disorders or ASD you will see three,airs of videos of one-year-olds within,ach pair you will first see a child,ith neurotypical development followed,y a child who shows early signs of ASD,he developmental features indicative of,SD shown within these videos fall into,hree main categories these include,ffective communication and sharing,njoyment making social connections and,he one with which we will begin seeing,ocial opportunity through Play,his 19 month old child does not show,igns of ASD,e has chosen to play with the balls he,uickly integrates the lady into his,lay he pretends that the balls are food,nd offers a bite to the lady,e always she okay yummy food he,nderstands that food spoons plates and,ating go together as he creates a,retend play activity,e remains aware of the people nearby he,njoys incorporating social interaction,nto his play and offers the lady a bite,e is able to pay attention to the lady,he doll and to pretend food all at once,e shares his excitement about the toys,ith the lady looking at her and smiling,fter the lady comments that the food is,ot he links his play and language to,er idea here he imitates the lady’s,ction with the pretend lipstick this,elps him to learn new play skills and,t the same time synchronize his actions,ith the actions of others,his 19 month old child shows signs of,SD,e has an intense interest in the toy,hone he does not share his enjoyment of,he phone with others he does not look,oward others and smile although he puts,he phone to his ear he does not show,reative play with the phone when his,ame is called he does not respond,lliott Elliott he does not offer the,hone to others so that they can have a,urn his mother tries to distract his,ttention away from the phone tickle him,lthough he seems to enjoy the tickling,e does not look at his mother or make a,ocial connection with her he does not,ry to communicate with his mom to keep,he social game going,his 14 month old child has a mild motor,elay but does not show signs of ASD,s it explores the new toy,e remains aware of the people nearby he,hecks in with his mother behind him to,nsure that she also sees the toy next,e shows that he understands the social,ommunicative meaning of the woman’s,ointing gesture by immediately looking,t the sticker then he looks over at,nother sticker she had pointed out,efore he continues the woman’s topic of,ommunication as he points to the Tigger,ticker he shows the motivation to,aintain social engagement with others,nd the ability to communicate using,oordinated gaze vocalization and,esture this 14 month old shows signs of,SD,irst he flops his hands while enjoying,he bubbles he does not share his,njoyment by looking at the man he does,ot respond to his name although he,ooks at the man’s pointed finger he,oes not follow the direction of the,an’s gesture to locate the object of,he man’s attention,his 14 month old is not,igns of ASD,hile she enjoys looking at and,xploring the toy she stays engaged with,he people nearby she tries to share her,njoyment with her mother as she turns,o show the toy to her then she shares,er enjoyment with the lady across from,er by directing her gaze and smile,oward the lady although she recognizes,hat the lady is a source of help her,equest for help is clear and effective,oordinating eye contact gesture and,ocalization for purposeful,ommunication is a sign of healthy,ocial and communication development,his 14 month old child shows signs of,SD,otice how his attention is so focused,n the toy that he does not interact,ith the people nearby he does not share,is attention with others his,xploration of the toy is also unusual,e drops the toy onto the table and,atches it move when the toy stops,oving he does not use eye contact,ocalization or gesture to ask for help,e also tenses his body and mouth in an,nusual way even though the lady is,alking to him he shows no interest in,er he does not seem to understand that,er gesture is an offer to help him he,oes not check in with the lady or his,other to see whether they are paying,ttention to the toy that he is enjoying,SD is a neurodevelopmental disorder,ffecting multiple aspects of,evelopment especially social and,ommunication skills children with ASD,ften show unusually intense interest in,ertain objects or sensory experiences,hey may repeat certain behaviors over,nd over again the signs of ASD are not,ransient but rather persist over time,he earliest signs of ASD are often,ubtle and become clearer in the 2nd and,rd year of life a diagnosis of ASD,hould be made by one or more experts,ho gather a thorough developmental,istory directly assess the child’s,evelopmental abilities and conduct a,edical exam for more information about,SD early detection and intervention or,o sign up to receive our newsletter,lease visit autism dot Kennedy Krieger,at org slash card,ou