You’ve welcomed your beautiful bundle of joy into the world, and before you know it, the tiny newborn you cradled in your arms is crawling, babbling, and exploring every corner of the house. Watching an infant grow into a curious, energetic toddler is one of the most awe-inspiring experiences for any parent or caregiver. Each milestone — first smile, first steps, first words — feels like a celebration.
But as you follow your child’s development, you may begin to notice certain behaviours that seem different from what you expected. Maybe your toddler isn’t speaking as much as other children their age. Perhaps they avoid eye contact, seem unusually sensitive to sounds, or prefer lining up toys over playing with them. These differences can raise questions and, at times, concern.
It’s natural to wonder: Is this just a quirk or could it be something more? Understanding the early signs of autism can help you feel more informed and confident in supporting your child’s growth. While every child develops at their own pace, being aware of early indicators of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) means you’re better equipped to seek support early if needed.
In this post, we’ll explore what autism might look like in toddlers, which signs to watch for, and how early intervention can make a meaningful difference in your child’s journey.
Why it helps to know the signs early
Being a parent comes with a mix of wonder and worry. Every milestone brings pride — and sometimes a little anxiety when your child doesn’t seem to follow the typical timeline. That’s perfectly normal. But when it comes to autism, early recognition can be life-changing.
Autism affects how a child communicates, relates to others, and experiences the world. These differences often show up in the first couple of years of life. Spotting the signs early gives your child the best chance to receive support that can help them thrive in their own unique way.
Early intervention doesn’t mean “fixing” a child — it means equipping them, and you, with tools that make life a little easier and more fulfilling.
Typical toddler development: A quick look
Every child grows at their own pace, but by around 12 to 24 months, most toddlers begin to:
- Respond to their name
- Use gestures like pointing or waving
- Make eye contact
- Enjoy social games like peek-a-boo
- Imitate actions and sounds
- Say a few simple words
- Show interest in other people, especially other children
If your child is missing several of these milestones, or if they develop skills and then lose them, it’s worth paying closer attention.
Signs of autism to watch for
No two children with autism are exactly alike, but there are some common signs that may become noticeable in the toddler years. You don’t have to tick every box for it to be worth a conversation with a healthcare professional. Even one or two strong signs may signal that it’s time to explore further.
1. Delayed speech and communication
It’s common for some toddlers to be late talkers, but children with autism may show more noticeable delays or differences in how they communicate. This might look like:
- Not babbling or using gestures by 12 months
- Not saying single words by 16 months
- Not using two-word phrases by 24 months
- Losing words or language they previously used
You might also notice that your child doesn’t point to things they want, respond when their name is called, or engage in back-and-forth “baby talk.”
2. Limited eye contact and social connection
Some toddlers with autism may seem distant or uninterested in social interaction. This could show up as:
- Avoiding eye contact
- Not smiling in response to your smile
- Not showing or sharing objects they like
- Preferring to play alone rather than with you or other children
It’s not that they don’t love or enjoy people — it’s just that their way of connecting may look different.
3. Repetitive behaviours and routines
You may notice your child engages in repetitive actions, such as:
- Flapping their hands, rocking, or spinning
- Lining up toys instead of playing with them
- Insisting on doing things the same way every time
- Becoming very upset by small changes in routine
These behaviours are often soothing for children with autism and can help them feel in control of their environment.
4. Strong or unusual reactions to sensory input
Some toddlers with autism have sensitivities to sound, touch, light, or textures. You might see:
- Covering ears at certain sounds (like the vacuum or blender)
- Avoiding being touched or cuddled
- Fascination with spinning objects or certain textures
- Seeming unaware of pain or reacting very strongly to minor discomfort
These sensory preferences can affect how they eat, dress, and play.
5. Little or no pretend play
Most toddlers begin pretending around 18 months — feeding a stuffed animal, pretending to talk on the phone, or playing “house.” A toddler with autism might:
- Not show interest in pretend play
- Use toys in a repetitive or unusual way (e.g., spinning wheels on a toy car rather than rolling it)
- Seem uninterested in what other children are doing
When to seek help
As a parent, you know your child best. If you have a gut feeling that something isn’t quite right, it’s always okay to ask for help. Some red flags that should prompt a conversation with your child’s pediatrician include:
- No babbling or pointing by 12 months
- No single words by 16 months
- No two-word phrases by 24 months
- Loss of previously learned skills
- Lack of eye contact or social engagement
Your doctor may recommend a developmental screening or refer you to a specialist for further evaluation.
Getting support: You’re not alone
If your child is identified as being on the autism spectrum, remember: this is not a reflection of something you did or didn’t do. Autism is not caused by parenting — it’s simply a different way of experiencing the world.
The good news? There are incredible resources and professionals out there who can help. Early intervention services can include:
- Speech and language therapy
- Occupational therapy for sensory and motor skills
- Behavioural therapy (such as ABA) to build daily life skills
- Parent coaching to help you support your child confidently
In many places, including the UK, these services are available through public health systems or local authorities. The earlier you begin, the more tools your child (and you) can gain for the journey ahead.
Final thoughts on signs of autism in toddlers
Parenting is filled with both joy and uncertainty. Noticing early signs of autism can feel overwhelming, but it’s also an opportunity — an invitation to understand your child more deeply and advocate for the support they need to flourish.
If your child is showing signs of autism, know that you’re not alone. Many parents have walked this path and found that with the right support, their children grow into wonderfully unique individuals with talents, insights, and perspectives that enrich the world.
Trust your instincts, ask questions, and take each step as it comes. You don’t need to have all the answers today — just the courage to keep showing up for your child with love, curiosity, and hope.
