Signs of autism in toddlers
5 min read
This is not a diagnosis (official name from a doctor).
These guides are for parent education. They do not replace a child doctor, psychologist, or speech-language pathologist.
A toddler is a child about 1 to 3 years old. This list is for noticing, not for naming the child yourself.
What is a toddler?
A toddler is a young child who has started walking, usually about 1 to 3 years old.
This page cannot say “your child has autism”. Only a qualified doctor or psychologist can do that after a proper check.
Signs to notice
- Does not look when you call their name
- Does not point to show you something (only pulls you for a biscuit)
- Talks late, or only repeats TV lines
- Little pretend play (feeding a doll, talking on a toy phone)
- Very upset if the routine changes
- Covers ears, walks on toes, or flaps hands when excited
What should I do next?
See a child doctor (paediatrician, a doctor for children). Ask for a hearing check. A speech-language pathologist can watch play and talking. Bring phone videos from home.
Quick answers
My toddler hugs me a lot. Can it still be autism?
Yes. Many autistic children love their parents. Autism is about talking, play, and change, not a lack of love.
He spoke and then stopped. What now?
Get a check soon, for hearing and for development. Do not wait for a “phase”.
