Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects how individuals perceive the world and interact with others. For families, recognising the early signs of autism in young children can be both challenging and transformative. Early identification opens the door to timely support, empowering children to thrive in their own unique ways.
At SLCN, we understand the importance of early intervention and the role it plays in shaping a child’s developmental journey. This blog post explores the early signs of autism, when they typically appear, how they vary between children, and what steps parents can take if they have concerns.
Autism is characterised by differences in:
These differences usually begin to emerge in the first 1–2 years of life. However, the signs can be subtle and vary widely from child to child. Some children may show many signs early on, while others may only exhibit a few.
Importantly, autism is not a disease to be cured—it is a neurodivergent way of experiencing the world. With the right support, autistic children can lead fulfilling lives, develop meaningful relationships, and achieve their goals.
From infancy, children begin to develop social and communication skills. These include making eye contact, responding to their name, using gestures, and engaging in back-and-forth interactions. In autistic children, these behaviours may be less consistent or absent.
Common signs include:
These signs may not be obvious at first, especially if a child is developing well in other areas. However, if social and communication differences persist, they may indicate autism.
Autistic children often engage in repetitive behaviours or develop intense interests in specific objects or activities. These behaviours can be comforting and help them make sense of their environment.
Examples include:
These behaviours are not inherently problematic but may signal that a child processes the world differently.
Many autistic children experience heightened or reduced sensitivity to sensory input. This can affect how they respond to sounds, lights, textures, and smells.
Signs of sensory sensitivities include:
Sensory sensitivities can impact daily life, but with support, children can learn strategies to manage their responses.
Most early signs of autism appear between 12 and 24 months. However, some signs may be noticeable earlier, even in the first year of life. For example:
It’s important to remember that every child develops at their own pace. Some children may reach milestones later without having autism. However, if you notice persistent differences, it’s worth seeking professional advice.
Autism is a spectrum, meaning it presents differently in each individual. Some children may show many signs early on, while others may only display a few. Additionally, signs may change over time or become clearer as children grow.
For example:
This variability can make early identification challenging, but it also highlights the importance of individualised support.
If you observe early signs of autism in your child, the most important step is to seek professional advice. You can start by speaking with your:
These professionals can conduct developmental screenings and refer you to specialists for further assessment.
You do not need a formal diagnosis to access support. In Australia, the NDIS Early Childhood Approach allows children under 9 to receive early intervention services without a diagnosis. This ensures that families can get help quickly, even while waiting for assessments.
Early intervention is one of the most effective ways to support children with autism. It leverages the brain’s plasticity during early development, helping children build skills in communication, social interaction, and emotional regulation.
Benefits of early intervention include:
At SLCN, we offer a range of early intervention services tailored to each child’s needs, including:
Our team works collaboratively with families to create personalised plans that support children’s strengths and address their challenges.
Choosing the right therapies can feel overwhelming. It’s important to focus on evidence-based practices—interventions that have been scientifically proven to help children with autism.
Some recommended approaches include:
Each child is different, so therapy should be tailored to their personality, preferences, and developmental goals.
Receiving an autism diagnosis—or even suspecting one—can be an emotional experience for families. It’s normal to feel overwhelmed, uncertain, or even relieved. At SLCN, we believe in partnering with families to provide not just clinical support, but emotional and practical guidance.
We encourage parents to:
You are not alone. There are professionals, resources, and communities ready to support you every step of the way.
If you're unsure whether your child is showing signs of autism, tools like the ASDetect app can help. Developed by La Trobe University, ASDetect guides parents through video-led assessments for children aged 11–30 months.
Other helpful resources include:
These tools are not diagnostic but can help you decide whether to seek further assessment.
Recognising the early signs of autism is the first step toward understanding and supporting your child’s unique way of experiencing the world. While the signs may vary, the message is clear: early action leads to better outcomes.
If you notice differences in your child’s social, communication, or behavioural development, don’t wait. Speak to your GP, child health nurse, or paediatrician. At SLCN, we’re here to help you navigate the journey with compassion, expertise, and hope.
