It can be difficult to recognize the signs of autism in infants. The developmental delays usually don't become obvious until 18 to 24 months. Autism is a developmental disability stemming from a neurological disorder. It impacts language and social interactions with others. Children younger than 1 year old can show signs of autism. It's important you have your pediatrician screen for developmental delays at each visit. There is no one cure for autism. But, the earlier you get intervention, the better the results. If you see a combination of the red flags listed here, screen the infant carefully for autism.
Lack of Babbling
An infant who does not coo or babble by at least 12 months may exhibit one of the red flags for autism. Language delays are a common characteristic in autism.
Little Eye Contact
Infants should watch faces intently by three months of age. An infant who does not follow moving objects with their eyes by two to three months may be a red flag, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Lack of Gestures
A sign of autism in an infant can be a lack of gestures, such as grasping a hand, waving or pointing to things by 12 months, according to Autism Speaks.
No Back-and-Forth Sound Making
By six to nine months of age, an infant should enjoy repeating sounds. A typical infant will enjoy trying to mimic sounds. For example, if Daddy makes some thumping sounds with his mouth, the baby will try to make the same sound. A lack of interest in making sounds can be a red flag for autism. An infant should also smile at the sound of your voice.
Lack of Interest in Facial Expressions
An infant should enjoy smiles and facial expressions. You should see a reaction to facial smiles in an infant by at least nine months. For example, an adult makes silly sounds or smiles at an infant and they should smile back by about six months. If there is no interest in facial movements, check with a developmental pediatrician.
Any Loss of Language or Social Skills
At any time, if your infant begins to babble or interact with you and then you see a regression, talk to your pediatrician, as this could be a sign of autism, according to Autism Speaks.
Does Not Respond to Loud Noises
An infant should cry, jump or make a movement when a loud noise is heard, according to the CDC. A red flag for autism is when they almost appear deaf because there is no response to loud noises.
