Autism is a developmental disorder that affects individuals across the lifespan. While the diagnosis of autism is typically made around the age of two or three, there are certain signs and symptoms that can be observed in infants, providing early indicators of potential autism spectrum disorder. Recognizing these signs at an early stage can be crucial for ᴛι̇ɱely intervention and support.

One of the primary signs of autism in infants is a lack of eye contact. Typically, infants begin to make eye contact and engage with their caregivers within the first few months of life. However, infants who may be on the autism spectrum often avoid eye contact or exhibit limited engagement with their parents or caregivers. This lack of eye contact can be an early indicator of social communication difficulties, which are a hallmark characteristic of autism.

Another notable sign to look for is a delay in social smiling and response to social sᴛι̇ɱuli. Most infants start to smile socially and respond to social cues, such as smiling back when someone smiles at them, by around three to four months of age. Infants with autism, on the other hand, may exhibit a delay in social smiling or may not respond consistently to social interactions. This early communication delay can be an important red flag for further assessment.

Furthermore, infants with autism may display limited gestures and babbling. Typically, infants begin to develop gestures, such as pointing or waving, by their first birthday. They also engage in babbling, where they produce repetitive syllables like “ba-ba” or “ma-ma.” However, infants with autism might show a delay in the development of these gestures and may exhibit limited or atypical babbling patterns. Paying attention to these delays can help in identifying potential signs of autism.

Sensory sensitivities are also commonly observed in infants with autism. These sensitivities can ɱaпifest as an overreaction or underreaction to sensory sᴛι̇ɱuli. For instance, an infant with autism may be hypersensitive to certain sounds, becoming distressed or covering their ears in response to loud noises. Conversely, they may show a lack of response to pain or temperature changes. These sensory sensitivities can impact the infant’s overall behavior and interactions with the environment.

It is important to note that the presence of these signs in infancy does not necessarily mean that a child will be diagnosed with autism. However, if several of these signs are consistently observed or if there are concerns about the infant’s social communication and development, it is recommended to consult a healthcare professional for a comprehensive evaluation.

In conclusion, being aware of the signs of autism in infants is crucial for early detection and intervention. Lack of eye contact, delays in social smiling and response, limited gestures and babbling, and sensory sensitivities are among the key indicators to look for. By recognizing these signs and seeking appropriate support, parents and caregivers can help infants with autism receive the necessary interventions and resources to thrive and reach their full potential.