What Milestones Are Reviewed During Early Autism Assessments?

PostedNovember 6, 2025

UpdatedNovember 6, 2025

ByMy Patient Advice

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

Various milestones in autism assessment are reviewed to help professionals determine whether a child is showing signs of autism. These milestones focus on a child’s development across several key areas, including communication, social interaction, and behaviour. Assessing these areas provides crucial insights into how a child’s development compares to typical developmental pathways and helps identify any potential delays or concerns.

Professionals typically evaluate early signs of autism during the assessment, focusing on communication delays, difficulties with social engagement, and repetitive behaviours. Early intervention is most effective when these milestones are identified early, as they can guide the child’s treatment plan and improve long-term outcomes.

Key Milestones in Autism Assessment

Here are some milestones in autism assessment that are reviewed during the evaluation:

Communication Development:

Assessing the child’s verbal and non-verbal communication, such as speech, gestures, and eye contact, is crucial. Delays in these areas can be a strong indicator of autism.

Social Interaction:

Professionals look for signs of social withdrawal, difficulty responding to social cues, and limited engagement with peers or caregivers.

Repetitive Behaviours:

Repetitive movements, strict adherence to routines, or intense focus on specific objects or topics are also key areas reviewed during the assessment.

Developmental Review:

A comprehensive review of the child’s overall developmental progress, including motor skills, emotional regulation, and play behaviours, helps paint a full picture of the child’s development.

Pediatric evaluation is an essential step in diagnosing autism and understanding a child’s unique needs. Identifying these milestones early can help families access the right support and therapies. For expert advice and personalised consultations, visit providers like Autism Detect for guidance tailored to your child’s specific needs.

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.