Autism, or autism spectrum disorder (ASD), is a lifelong neurodevelopmental condition that affects how a person communicates, interacts with others, learns and experiences the world. Autism is a spectrum, which means that children on the autism spectrum can have different strengths, characteristics and support needs.
Understanding the characteristics and early signs of autism can help parents and caregivers recognise when a child may benefit from further assessment and support.
What Are The Characteristics Of Autism?
Autism is commonly associated with differences in social communication and interaction, as well as restricted or repetitive behaviours, interests and activities. Sensory differences are also common among children on the autism spectrum.
Social Communication And Interaction
Children on the autism spectrum may experience differences in how they:
- Communicate and interact with others
- Use and understand eye contact, gestures, facial expressions, and body language
- Develop and maintain relationships
These differences can vary considerably from one child to another.
Behaviours, Interests And Sensory Differences
Children on the autism spectrum may also:
- Show repeat movements, behaviours or speech, such as hand flapping or repeating words and phrases
- Prefer familiar routines and predictability and find changes or transitions difficult
- Develop strong or focused interests in particular topics, objects or activities
- Focus closely on particular parts of objects or enjoy watching things move, spin or light up
- Experience differences in sensory processing, such as being more or less sensitive to sounds, lights, or textures
Not every child on the autism spectrum will show all of these characteristics, and the characteristics can change as a child develops.
What Are The Early Signs Of Autism?
Early signs of autism can appear during the first few years of life. Some children may show differences in social communication, interaction, play, behaviour, or responses to sensory experiences.
Possible signs may include:
- Limited or inconsistent response to their name
- Limited use of gestures, such as pointing to share interest
- Less frequent sharing of interests or enjoyment with others
- Differences in eye contact, facial expressions or body language
- Delayed or unusual patterns of spoken language
- Repeating words, phrases or movements
- Strong preferences for routines or difficulty with changes
- Intense or highly focused interests
- Unusual or strong responses to sounds, lights, textures or other sensory experiences
These signs can occur in children who are not on the autism spectrum, and having one or more of these characteristics does not mean that a child is on the autism spectrum. If you have concerns about your child's development, consider speaking with a qualified healthcare or developmental professional about whether further assessment may be appropriate.
Every Child Is Unique
Autism is a spectrum, so no two children on the autism spectrum are exactly alike. Each child has their own strengths, interests, personality, learning style and support needs.
Some children on the autism spectrum may have particular strengths in areas such as visual learning, attention to detail, memory or specific interests. Others may need more support with communication, learning, daily living skills or navigating social situations.
Understanding a child's individual strengths and support needs can help families and professionals provide appropriate support. Early identification can also help families connect with services and resources that support their child's development, participation and well being.
What Should I Do If I Am Concerned About My Child?
If you notice differences in your child's communication, interaction, behaviour, learning or sensory responses, it can be helpful to seek advice rather than trying to make a diagnosis yourself.
A qualified professional can consider your child's overall development and help determine whether further assessment or support may be appropriate.
Early identification can help families better understand their child's strengths and support needs and connect with appropriate services and resources.
Learn More About Autism
Understanding autism can help families feel more confident in recognising their child's strengths, understanding their needs and providing meaningful support.
Our Fundamentals of Autism course introduces key concepts about autism, common myths and practical strategies to help parents and caregivers better understand, support and connect with children on the autism spectrum.
Learn More About Fundamentals Of Autism
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