Autism is a developmental disorder that affects one in 110 children in some areas of the United States, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The signs of autism can appear early in childhood, with the average age being 4 1/2 years. Children with autism reach important developmental milestones later than other children, resulting in abnormal social behaviors and language skills.
Early Signs
The National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS) states an autistic child can start showing signs of the disorder between the ages of 1 and 2. The first sign is a lack of language and gesturing skills; at age 1, the child will not be babbling or using hand motions, such as pointing. The lag in language skills can also be seen at 16 months, when the child does not use single words, such as "no" or "cat." By age 2, the child will not use two-word phrases. In some autistic cases, a child can develop language skills but then loses them at the onset of symptoms. Early signs of autism also include hindered social interactions, such as a child not responding to her name. The child may not have expressive facial expressions, such as smiling, and other social responsiveness, and may have poor eye contact. Like language, the child may lose previously acquired social skills. A child may also develop abnormal behaviors, such as lining up toys and objects.
Problems with Social Behaviors
As the child gets older, social and behavioral problems become more apparent. The NINDS states that as the child enters school age, parents and teachers may notice he has problems making friends. The child also avoids social play, instead preferring to play by himself; the Mayo Clinic describes it as the child being in "his own world." Other behavioral and social signs of autism include the child being ritualistic and avoiding physical contact.
Regressed Language Skills
Language problems also become more noticeable when the child becomes older. When interacting with other people, the child has problems starting or continuing a conversation. The NINDS describes the child's usage of language as "stereotyped, repetitive or unusual." When speaking, the child may also use an abnormal rhythm, such as a singsong or robotic voice, according to the Mayo Clinic.
