Signs of Babies With Autism

July 30, 2021

Signs of Babies With Autism

Children with autism spectrum disorder often display developmental differences when they are babies—especially when it comes to their social and language skills. Unfortunately, because babies usually sit and crawl and are much less active then adolescents, it can be very difficult to detect signs of a baby with autism. That doesn't mean, however, that it's impossible to detect signs of a baby with autism. 

Signs of Autism In Babies 

There are certain examples of social, communication, and behavioral differences in babies with autism. It is important to note that one baby with autism may or may not display the exact symptoms as other babies with autism. The severity of symptoms can vary and oftentimes, vary significantly. 

Social Differences In a Baby With Autism 

There are many social differences in babies with autism. This can include little to no eye contact, showing little response to a parent's smile or other facial expressions as well as: 

• May not care to look at objects even when a parent is pointing 
• Not likely to bring objects of interest to either parent 
• By societal standards, may not have appropriate facial expressions
• Difficulty interacting with other babies 
• Less likely to show concern, emotion, or empathy as they get older
• Difficulty perceiving what others are thinking or feeling 

Communication Signs of a Baby With Autism 

• Has not said a single word in 2 years  
• May not indicate they ever need something or if they do, very rarely
• Can often repeat sounds or conversations without any understanding of the conversation
• Will respond to sounds such as a car horn or a dog barking but not to their own name
• May show little to no interest in communicating with others 

Behavioral Signs of a Baby With Autism 

• May rock, flap their hands, and or disturbingly bang their head on the wall
• Likes to stick with a very specific routine 
• Can be obsessed with a very odd and specific routine 
• May not cry and you may often wonder if they have any fear
• Can be sensitive to smells, sounds, lights, textures, and touch
• When playing with toys they may opt to play with only one part of the toy, like the wheel rather than the whole toy

The Difference of a Baby With Autism From Other Developing Babies

 There are quite a few stark differences between a baby with autism and other babies that are on the normal development path. For example: 

• At 12 months: A baby with typical development will turn their head when they hear their name
• At 12 months a baby with autism: A baby with autism spectrum disorder may not turn to look, even after their name, but will, however, respond to other sounds.
• At 18 months: An infant with normal development but delayed speech skills will still point, gesture, or use facial expressions to compensate for their lack of talking.
• At 18 months an infant with autism: An infant with autism may make no attempt to compensate for delayed speech or might limit speech by just repeating what they hear on TV.
• At 24 months a child during typical development: May bring their parents a picture or toy and share their joy with them.
• At 24 months a child with autism: Will often times lack eye contact and don't care much about interacting together. 

Think You May Have a Baby with Autism? 

If you think you may have a baby with autism talk with your pediatrician. You know your baby best and your concerns are valid and important. The earlier you act, the better. 

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Reveal is the world’s first free online test for autism, both for adults and children, that is powered by artificial intelligence and has 42 test questions formulated by licensed therapists. 

Reveal uniquely provides you with a percentage-based diagnosis and then recommends with machine learning the most appropriate next steps to take. This can include recommended supplement needs like Spectrum +,  physician care, connecting live 1-on-1 with one of our licensed therapists, and so much more. You can take Reveal here. 

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