Psychologist reveals 7 early signs of autism every parent should know

Autism can manifest subtly in every child long before formal diagnosis - but spotting those early signs are key to supporting your child's well-being. But while every child is unique, there are common autism spectrum disorder (ASD) indicators parents can watch for ranging from eye contact and speech, to routines and special interests.

Now autism expert and consultant psychologist Dr Bijal Chheda-Varma, founder of neurodiverse care clinic Nos Curare, has shared seven early autism signs every parent should know and how best to support your child if they have ASD. Dr Bijal Chheda-Varma told the Daily Express: "Early recognition of autism is absolutely important because the earlier we identify it, the sooner we can provide the right support.

"Autism isn't something to be 'fixed', it's about understanding how a child experiences the world and giving them the tools, environment and encouragement to thrive.

"When parents notice signs early, it opens the door to early intervention strategies. This may include language therapy, occupational therapy, emotional regulation techniques and/or structured learning support.

"When this is introduced early, children can grow in confidence and independence as parents receive a roadmap for nurturing growth in a structured, compassionate way.

"Without early awareness, children may go years feeling misunderstood, which can impact their self-esteem, academic progress, and mental health. But with the right support in place early on, children with autism do flourish with a strong sense of identity.

"If you suspect your child has autism, the first step is a comprehensive assessment with a qualified psychologist. At Nos Curare, our focus is on identifying and differentiating traits that may fall under Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Asperger's Syndrome, or Social Pragmatic Communication Disorder.

"The aim is to determine whether specific diagnostic criteria matches your child's unique profile, highlighting how their struggles and strengths can manifest in daily life, and offer continued support."

Dr Chheda-Varma's seven symptom signs are:

1. Limited eye contact:

"One of the earliest and most noticeable signs of autism in young children is inconsistent eye contact. Children may avoid looking directly at others' faces, including their parents. In some cases, they may glance briefly during interactions with minimal reactions. However, this shouldn't be taken as rudeness or lack of affection.

"This habit reflects how children with autism tend to process social cues, finding it difficult or even draining, to participate in everyday conversations. By limiting eye contact, they allow themselves to focus on processing their surroundings in a way that feels less intimidating and more manageable.

"Providing your kids with gentle encouragement and opportunities for low-pressure one-on-one sessions can help your child gradually become more comfortable with social engagement."

2. Delayed speech development:

"Language delays are common early indicators of autism. Some children may not start saying their first recognisable words until around 12-18 months, which is much later than the typical developmental range.

"Meanwhile, others may have a limited vocabulary or struggle with forming sentences well into adolescence. These delays occur because children with autism often process language in a more analytical way, making it harder for them to grasp context.

"As a result, they may find it harder to imitate sounds or follow basic conversational patterns. However, autistic children are highly perceptive, and these delays usually coexist with strong non-verbal skills, such as pointing or using sounds to express their needs.

"Early evaluation for ASD-related adaptive functioning can identify guided support strategies that can help your child promptly improve their speech skills, as well as future-proof their quality of life from a young age."

3. Repetitive movements:

"Patterned behaviours such as spinning, rocking, or looping the same phrases are often trademark signs of autism known as 'stimming.'

"These rhythmic movements and sounds often serve as self-soothing mechanisms that regulate emotions and process stimuli. 'Stimming' provides autistic children with predictable stimulation, reducing anxiety or helping the child cope with overwhelming situations.

"While sporadic repetition is normal in most children, as this can be a way to practice new skills or explore their immediate surroundings, intense patterns may indicate a cognitive difference.

"Interrupting these habits may lead to instant emotional outbursts or sudden aggression. I recommend providing safe spaces for stimming, where children can soothe themselves and redirect their focus, without discouraging the behaviour entirely."

4. Lack of social engagement:

"Children on the autism spectrum may appear withdrawn when it comes to social engagement. They may avoid group play, not respond to their name, or show minimal interest in forming meaningful connections with others.

"While not intentional, sensory sensitivities like taking part in small talk may disrupt their preference for predictability. This may trigger the practice of 'masking' wherein they suppress autistic traits (like stimming, limited eye contact, or repetitive speech) and mimic neurotypical behaviours to fit in.

"Being forced to socialise may trigger the development of clinically significant anxiety disorders, which is among the most common comorbidities in autism, found in at least 20-40% of autistic children.

"Start by encouraging small interactions in familiar settings while respecting their need for breaks. Additionally, allow them to express themselves naturally without forcing masking."

5. Sensitivity to sound or touch:

"Many children with autism display heightened sensitivity to stimuli. These responses are linked to how their nervous system interprets body signals, including physical or emotional reactions to certain noises, lighting, or textures.

"For example, some children with hypersensitivity may cover their ears in response to common sounds like tapping, vacuum cleaners, or clinking utensils.

"On the other hand, hyposensitive or under-responsive children may not feel certain sensations as strongly, usually seeking more intense sensory input by tapping surfaces or holding tightly onto objects like their favourite stuffed animals.

"Parents can help by creating calm environments that can offer sensory breaks, with easy access to safe items that satisfy your child's needs. When they are ready, gradually introduce new sensations at a comfortable pace with the guidance of a qualified professional."

6. Resistance to change:

"A strong preference for predictability is common among children with autism. Sudden shifts in daily schedules, including meals and bedtimes, can trigger distress and even lead to meltdowns.

"When children with autism experience frequent disruptions to their routines, it can contribute to feelings of unease, leading to demotivation and low mood.

"Over time, this may increase the risk of developing mood disorders like major depressive disorder (MDD) due to chronic feelings of helplessness that come from being exposed to unfamiliar situations. Instead of demanding immediate changes, introduce small adjustments gradually and provide visual schedules to help children adapt.

"Accommodating their need for structure, such as giving advanced notice of upcoming changes, can help children prepare and feel more secure, making transitions easier."

7. Fixated Interests:

"Children with autism often develop deep interests in specific topics or activities called 'hyperfixations.' These hobbies may seem unusual in intensity or subject matter compared to their peers, leading to challenges in group or classroom settings.

"As most autistic children tend to have their own special interests, many parents worry that this could limit social development. As adults, we must highlight that these special interests can actually act as leverage for learning, skill-building, and connecting with others who share similar passions.

"Encourage exploration of these niche interests in safe and structured ways. You can enrol them in inclusive special needs programs or incorporate these fixations into educational activities, using them as a bridge to develop any delays in communication and problem-solving skills."