Autism in young children: early signs beyond the clichés

Autism rarely looks the way it does in films, and not the same in every child. In young children in particular the signs are quiet, and there's more than one profile. Here are the well-known signs, the often-overlooked quiet profile that frequently affects girls, and what really matters.

When parents think of autism, many have a particular picture in mind, often from films: the clever, socially awkward boy who looks no one in the eye. That picture exists, but it's only a slice. Autism has more than one face, and in young children especially, the first signs don't show up spectacularly but in small everyday moments. Important first: a single sign means nothing at all. It's about the overall picture, and about your gut feeling, which counts.

The better-known profile: five often-visible signs

These five signs are the ones most likely to stand out, and the ones in most checklists. They show up more often, but not only, in boys.

• Little eye contact. The child looks people in the eye less often, even while playing or cuddling.
• Barely responds to their own name. You call, and they don't turn around, even though their hearing is fine.
• Little shared attention. The child rarely points at something to show you, or doesn't follow your pointing finger.
• Delayed or unusual speech. Late first words, or speech used more in repetition than in exchange.
• Repetitive movements or strong routines. Rocking, hand-flapping, the need for the same sequences, strong discomfort at change.

Professionals say autism is sometimes recognisable from around 18 months. Still: these signs are possible hints, not proof. Some children show individual ones entirely without autism. It's not about ticking boxes, but about looking more closely. And very importantly: if your child doesn't fit this list, that by no means rules out autism. Because there's a second profile that looks quite different.