What Kind of Gestures Are Missing in Children with Autism?

Posted November 5, 2025 Updated November 5, 2025 Author: Lucia Alvarez, MSc Reviewed by: Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

Missing gestures in autism are often an early sign of developmental differences in children. Gestures play a key role in nonverbal communication, helping children express needs and emotions before they develop their verbal language skills. In children with autism, certain gestures may be absent or delayed, which can impact their ability to communicate effectively with others.

Typically, children begin using gestures like pointing, waving, and reaching out to express themselves in early childhood. However, missing gestures in autism can signal developmental delays, particularly in communication. These gaps in nonverbal communication are often considered one of the autism indicators, making it essential for parents and caregivers to monitor early signs of social and language development.

Common Missing Gestures in Autism

Here are some missing gestures in autism that may be observed:

Pointing:

One of the first nonverbal communication tools babies typically use is pointing. Children with autism often fail to point at objects or events of interest, which can delay social and communicative development. Pointing is crucial for sharing attention and engaging others in conversations.

Waving:

By the age of one, most children begin waving as a way to greet or say goodbye. Autistic children may not use this gesture, which is a social signal that plays a significant role in early social interactions.

Reaching Out:

Reaching out for comfort or attention is another common gesture that children typically use by 9-12 months. In autistic children, this action may be delayed or absent, making it harder for them to seek help or express emotional needs.

Gestures for Communication:

Many children use gestures like nodding, shaking their head, or shrugging their shoulders to indicate yes, no, or uncertainty. These missing gestures in autism can make it harder for children to participate in back-and-forth conversations and respond to others in typical social settings.

Recognising missing gestures in autism early can help ensure that children receive the support they need for developmental delays in communication. For expert advice and tailored consultations, visit providers like Autism Detect for one-on-one guidance suited to your child’s needs.

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

Written by

Lucia Alvarez, MSc

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.

Reviewed by

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

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.