What are the signs of ASD level 1?

Mild difficulty with social interaction Trouble adapting to change Narrow, repetitive interests Able to function independently with some support

How can I tell if my child has ASD?

Watch for early signs of ASD, such as not responding to their name, lack of eye contact, delayed language, and repetitive play. Request a professional evaluation if concerned.

What are the 5 symptoms of ASD?

Limited or no eye contact Delayed speech or language Repetitive behaviors Strong need for sameness or routine Difficulty with social interaction

Early Signs of ASD | Achieve Behavioral Therapy

Early detection of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) can make a significant difference in a child’s long-term development. Knowing the early signs of ASD—from subtle behaviors in infants to social signals in adults—empowers families to seek support and start proven therapies faster.

This comprehensive, science-backed listicle covers the early signs of ASD, categorized by age and gender, details the differences in boys versus girls, and highlights the earliest and most overlooked indicators parents should know.

Understanding ASD and Early Signs

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects social interaction, communication, interests, and behavior. The early signs of ASD can appear in infancy or later in childhood. Research shows that by 12–18 months, many children who later receive an ASD diagnosis show some behavioral differences.

Key Points:

Autism is a spectrum: symptoms and severity vary.
Symptoms often appear before age 3, but are sometimes not noticed until later.
Early detection leads to better outcomes with intervention.

Early Signs of ASD in Babies (0–12 Months)

Detecting the early signs of ASD in babies can be challenging, but some red flags are well established:

Rarely smiling or responding to social cues
Limited or absent eye contact by 6 months
No babbling, cooing, or meaningful gestures by 12 months
Not responding to their name by 9–12 months
Lack of interest in interactive games (peekaboo, patty-cake)
No pointing, waving, or reaching for objects
Unusual reactions to sounds (no response or overreacts)
Little or no desire to be cuddled or picked up
Unusual or repetitive body movements (flapping, stiffening)

Tip: The earliest signs of ASD are subtle. Trust your instincts and track milestones.

Early Signs of ASD in Toddlers (12–36 Months)

Early signs of ASD in toddlers are often more noticeable. Look for:

Delayed or absent speech and language skills
Little interest in playing with other children
Difficulty following instructions or simple routines
Persistent repetitive behaviors (lining up toys, rocking, waving objects)
Strong reactions to changes in routine or environment
Intense focus on one subject, object, or activity
Unusual attachment to certain objects or toys
Little or no imaginative play

Tip: Regression (loss of language or social skills) around ages 1–2 is a significant warning sign of ASD.

Early Signs of ASD in Children (3–6 Years)

By preschool and kindergarten, early signs of ASD in children can include:

Difficulty making friends or joining group play
Trouble understanding social rules (e.g., turn-taking, conversation)
Unusual speech patterns (robotic, monotone, echolalia)
Lack of eye contact or facial expression
Sensory sensitivities (overreacting to textures, sounds, lights)
Difficulty with transitions or changes in routine
Anxiety, aggression, or withdrawal in new situations
Fixation on specific routines or repetitious behaviors

Early Signs of ASD in Boys vs Girls

Early Signs of ASD in Boys

More likely to display repetitive body movements (hand flapping, spinning)
Intense interest in objects (trains, cars, blocks)
More noticeable communication delays
May display more obvious resistance to change or insistence on sameness
More likely to be diagnosed earlier due to pronounced behaviors

Early Signs of ASD in Girls

May mask or hide symptoms by mimicking others (“social camouflaging”)
Intense interest in animals, books, or specific people (not just objects)
Strong imagination or fantasy play may mask a lack of social play
Subtle differences in language and social use (overly formal, scripting)
Symptoms often mistaken for shyness, anxiety, or perfectionism

Tip: The early signs of ASD in girls are often under-recognized. Early evaluation is key, even for subtle or “quiet” behaviors.

The Earliest Signs of ASD: Red Flags for All Ages

Lack of social smile by 6 months
Limited or absent language (one word by 16 months, two words by 24 months)
No response to name by 12 months
Loss of previously learned skills (“regression”)
No pointing, gesturing, or waving by 12–15 months
Absence of interest in people or playing pretend

Early Symptoms of ASD: What’s Typical, What’s Not?

Typical: Some children are naturally shy, quiet, or independent. Occasional repetitive play is normal.
Warning Signs of ASD: Patterns of persistent, unusual behaviors (repetition, lack of eye contact, absence of social play) that interfere with day-to-day function.
Earliest signs of ASD often cluster together. One sign may not mean autism, but several combined warrant professional evaluation.

Warning Signs of ASD: When to Take Action

Warning signs of ASD include any pattern of behavior that concerns you—especially if you see several from the lists above. Early evaluation is recommended if your child:

Doesn’t respond to name
Is not speaking or losing language skills
Avoids social interaction or eye contact
Gets upset by small changes or transitions
Engages in repetitive play or movements

Tip: Talk to your pediatrician and request a referral for a developmental specialist if you notice these signs.

Signs of Autism in Adults

While this article focuses on the earliest symptoms, signs of autism in adults can include:

Social communication challenges
Difficulty reading social cues or body language
Preference for routine and predictability
Sensory sensitivities
Intense interest in specific subjects
Challenges with romantic relationships or workplace norms

How Achieve Behavioral Therapy Can Help

At Achieve Behavioral Therapy, serving North Carolina and New Jersey, our team specializes in early assessment and individualized support for all ages. What sets us apart?

Comprehensive screening: We use validated tools for detecting the earliest signs of ASD in babies, toddlers, and older children.
Family-friendly assessment: Our approach is gentle, interactive, and involves parents every step of the way.
Customized ABA programs: Therapy targets communication, social skills, and daily living—with measurable, positive results.
Support for girls, boys, and adults: We recognize and address overlooked symptoms, including the subtle signs that affect girls and adults.
Expert care coordination: We partner with pediatricians, teachers, and other professionals to ensure whole-child support.

Want peace of mind and answers you can trust? Book a “First Signs Evaluation” with Achieve Behavioral Therapy—where science meets caring, and early support makes all the difference.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What are the signs of ASD level 1?
Mild difficulty with social interaction
Trouble adapting to change
Narrow, repetitive interests
Able to function independently with some support
How can I tell if my child has ASD?
Watch for early signs of ASD, such as not responding to their name, lack of eye contact, delayed language, and repetitive play. Request a professional evaluation if concerned.
What are the 5 symptoms of ASD?
Limited or no eye contact
Delayed speech or language
Repetitive behaviors
Strong need for sameness or routine
Difficulty with social interaction