Autism generally appears before the age of three, characterized by communication and social challenges. This neurodevelopmental disorder affects one in 110 children in America, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Four to 5 times as many boys as girls receive the diagnosis of autism, and it occurs across all racial, ethnic and socioeconomic groups.
Social Characteristics
Symptomatic of autism in a toddler is a disinterest in interacting with other adults or children. Autistic toddlers and children prefer to play alone, appear withdrawn and display little interest in what others are doing or saying. They may also resist any type of physical touch and may be unaware of and ignore issues of personal space. An autistic child may seem uncomfortable around other children and may appear unable to play.
Developmental Characteristics
A toddler with autism generally develops similarly to other children in his ability to sit, roll over and walk. However, delays occur regarding language and learning. These delays might occur after several years of seemingly normal development. NAMI, the National Alliance for Mental Illness, notes that some parents report that their children lose language skills they had previously acquired and begin to reject people and act oddly.
Communication Characteristics
Toddlers with autism may struggle with issues of verbal and nonverbal communication. NAMI suggests several possible characteristics of autism, including not babbling, pointing or gesturing by age one; not speaking single words by 16 months; not combining two words together by age two; and not responding to her name. For toddlers who do speak, conversation may be disconnected or stilted. They may exhibit odd gestures and facial expressions. Eye contact and an awareness of tone of voice, both forms of nonverbal communication, may be poorly developed.
Behavioral Characteristics
Toddlers with autism may display unusual behaviors. They may become fixated on playing with certain toys or with only one part of a toy. They may rock from side to side, twirl their fingers, spin in circles or flap their hands. Another characteristic of autism in toddlers is an adherence to routines and schedules. Any alteration in regular routines might cause anger and frustration.
Other Characteristics
Sensory issues, over- or under-sensitivity to touch, sound, smell and motion, develop in some autistic children, states the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Other characteristics include unusual eating and sleeping patterns, aggression, impulsivity, hyperactivity and self-injury.
