How Early Can Parents Notice Autism Signs?

PostedNovember 6, 2025

UpdatedNovember 6, 2025

ByMy Patient Advice

Author: Lucia Alvarez, MSc | Reviewed by: Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

The age of autism recognition can vary, but many parents start to notice early indicators of autism in the first two years of their child’s life. Early signs can be subtle, but with parental observation, it’s possible to identify certain developmental cues that suggest a child might be on the autism spectrum. The earlier these signs are noticed, the sooner a child can receive early intervention, which is crucial for improving long-term outcomes.

While each child develops at their own pace, there are certain developmental cues that can alert parents to potential signs of autism. These may include delays in speech, social difficulties, or repetitive behaviours. Although many of these signs can appear as part of typical development, consistently noticing patterns over time may indicate a need for further evaluation.

How Age of Autism Recognition Typically Manifests

Here’s how parents may notice early indicators of autism:

Social Communication Delays:

Around 6-12 months, parents may notice a lack of eye contact, smiling, or responding to their name. Delayed or absent social gestures, such as pointing or waving, can also be a sign.

Speech Delays:

A child who isn’t babbling by 6 months or speaking words by 12-18 months might show signs of developmental delays in language skills, a common early indicator of autism.

Repetitive Behaviours:

Around 12-18 months, some children begin to engage in repetitive actions, such as hand-flapping, spinning objects, or lining up toys, which can also indicate autism.

While these signs may not always mean a child has autism, parental observation plays a key role in identifying early signs and seeking timely professional evaluation. For expert advice and personalised consultations, visit providers like Autism Detect to support your child’s journey to early intervention.

For a deeper dive into the science, diagnosis, and full treatment landscape, read our complete guide to Early Signs & Symptoms of Autism.

Lucia Alvarez, MSc

Author

Lucia Alvarez is a clinical psychologist with a Master’s in Clinical Psychology and extensive experience providing evidence-based therapy and psychological assessment to children, adolescents, and adults. Skilled in CBT, DBT, and other therapeutic interventions, she has worked in hospital, community, and residential care settings. Her expertise includes grief counseling, anxiety management, and resilience-building, with a strong focus on creating safe, supportive environments to improve mental well-being.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the author's privacy.

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

Reviewer

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez is a UK-trained physician with an MBBS and experience in general surgery, cardiology, internal medicine, gynecology, intensive care, and emergency medicine. She has managed critically ill patients, stabilised acute trauma cases, and provided comprehensive inpatient and outpatient care. In psychiatry, Dr. Fernandez has worked with psychotic, mood, anxiety, and substance use disorders, applying evidence-based approaches such as CBT, ACT, and mindfulness-based therapies. Her skills span patient assessment, treatment planning, and the integration of digital health solutions to support mental well-being.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the reviewer's privacy.