How to Recognize Autism Symptoms in Infants
Many think that you can't see any autism symptoms in infants, but that is simply not true. It is certainly more difficult to see autism symptoms in infants, but research and science has developed to a point now where there are some markers, however faint, that can point in the direction of autism in infants.
It should be understood, though, that this is not an exact science, and not all symptoms that might be autism necessarily are autism. In other words, be aware but try not to panic.
How early can autism symptoms in infants be detected?
It is possible to see signs of autism between 12 and 18 months. It may be possible to help rewire the brain through early treatment if the signs are caught early enough. You are not necessarily looking for abnormal behaviors this young, just the absence of normal ones.
For example, many autistic infants will not respond to cuddling. They will seem to stiffen and shy away from your touch. They won't reach out to be picked up, and they won't look at you while they are being fed.
Other symptoms of autism in infants include:
- Not making eye contact
- Not smiling when someone looks at them
- Not responding to their name or a familiar voice
- Not following objects visually
Lack of Hand Gestures is an Important Signal
More symptoms include not pointing, waving goodbye, or using other gestures to communicate. An infant with autism won't usually make noises to get attention (which is why many parents with an "easy baby" are later shocked to find out what they thought was being easy going was actually a symptom of autism). They won't imitate your movements or facial expressions.
Communications Symptoms to Look For
When they get a bit older, about the age when most kids start to talk, you might notice several differences in the way they communicate.
- They may speak in an abnormal tone of voice, or with an odd rhythm.
- They may switch pronouns, referring to themselves as "you" and to the other person as "I."
- They may answer questions by repeating the question, or refer to themselves in the third person.
Can I start autism treatment even at this young an age?
You may wonder if there is any way to give treatment to infants so young who are displaying signs of autism. It turns out that according to many researchers, the answer is yes.
One of the most primary elements that an infant can experience is the mother-child bond. If the child is not tuned in to this bond, so to speak, or is perhaps trying to avoid interacting with the mother because of sensory issues, they then could and most likely will miss out on important social development steps that come from this bond with the parent.
To improve and encourage this bond, you can alter the environment so it most promotes interactions such as eye contact and babbling. You need to make your baby feel as comfortable as possible. That means it has to be as quiet and sensory distraction free as possible (no mobiles hanging or bright lights.)
You should not panic if you suspect autism signs in your infant, but you should perhaps get them checked out just to be on the safe side.
Hopefully, with early identification and early treatment, life can be a little easier for those with autism and the people who love them. For additional tips and suggestions that can help your loved one live a fulfilling and happy life see The Autism Survival Guide which includes tips and advice from parents who are raising successful and happly children on the autism spectrum.
I enjoy and appreciate the information, anything to help my son and my own understanding of what life is like for Nicholas. It also helps me educate my son's teacher and EA which this process is ongoing and at times very frustrating.
My name is Matt Turner from Australia. I have a 6 y.o. with autism (fairly mild). I found your work insightful and helpful - my wife is a doctor and spent many hours wading through medical texts to no avail. Our son Finley Turner is a very bright, friendly, healthy, unconditionally loved boy who can lose it sometimes. The guide helped us understand what to do and it helps him as much as us. Thanks for the work and I have recommended you to other parents in similar situations.
I found your articles to be extremely helpful...I applaud you for sharing your story and helping others who are going through similar situations. Thank you for sharing your story.
I was pleasantly surprised by the consistency, and thoroughness of the topics. I think this is a valuable tool. I think this was a valuable tool for me because as a parent we all need a kick in the butt and stay on task, constantly fighting, updating and communicating with caregivers, teachers and finding tools for our children. Keep it up!
I definitely found your information helpful. My grandson was just diagnosed this summer. He is very smart and sweet. We will continue to be an advocate for him thanks to your information. I am including a picture of him. 
"Hi my son of 3 and a half years was diagnosed today, I had concerns so prior to his appointment I researched it and joined your newsletter. The information was so helpful and very supportive it was almost like having a counselor as I opened each email I felt like some one really understood my situation so thanks you so much for that, it's a very hard thing to accept and you do feel alone but with the letters I was given inspiration and hope that not everything was going to be doom and gloom it was and still is a lifeline.
"I have found the newsletters very valuable. I have forwarded them to teachers who work with Matthias when they apply."
I have been reading your Newsletter for a while now. Find attached a picture of my family. Joel is the little boy in glasses. Thanks for putting a smile on me. My knowledge and support is increasing. I feel more positive towards helping my son than ever.
I am Ben's grandmother and see him every single day. He is a joy. What your info does is help us to understand the melt downs that quite frankly we have always put down to the meds that he takes. We have proved your theory of a strict regime for Ben. Each letter adds to our knowledge. Keep it up dear friend. We learn from you every day and will I am sure continue to learn. God Bless you.
27. August 2011 at 11:11 am
this would be a good brochure to put in dr.s offices