Autism, among a group of autism spectrum disorders (ASD), causes behavioral, communication and social challenges. Because autism is considered a spectrum disorder, the symptoms range from very mild to extremely severe, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), affecting about one in 110 people in the United States. This developmental disorder begins before a child reaches the age of 3 and continues throughout the person's lifetime.
Communication Issues
The CDC estimates that approximately 25 to 30 percent of toddlers with autism speak some words between the ages of 12 and 18 months, and then lose them. Other autism symptoms in toddlers might include repetition of words or phrases, delayed language skills, a robot-like or sing-song voice, misuse of pronouns and providing seemingly unrelated answers to questions. Additionally, they may appear unable to use appropriate communication gestures such as pointing or waving.
Social Issues
Unlike typical toddlers, a young child with autism appears uninterested in interacting with others. She may avoid eye contact, prefer playing alone and not respond to her name. When she is interacting with others she may display odd or unusual facial expressions, seem unaware of personal space issues and resist physical touch.
Behavioral Issues
Toddlers with autism often have unusual behaviors. She may become so fixated on routines that she displays extreme anger and frustration with change. She may show an obsession with what toys to play with or how to play with them. She may spin herself in circles, flap her hands, rock from side to side or do other repetitive motions.
Other Issues
Toddlers with autism may suffer from sensory issues, being over- or under-responsive to smells, sounds and textures. They may also display hyperactivity, impulsivity, temper tantrums, self injury, aggression and have unusual sleeping or eating patterns.
