Signs of Autism Spectrum Disorder

Author:  Andre Velho | April 25th, 2022

Signs of Autism Spectrum Disorder

As a parent, it is important to know the signs of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and be familiar with milestones your child should achieve, in case of any delays.

There are differences in the age at which a child may get diagnosed, as well as the intensity of the symptoms. Some infants show signs in the first months, others as late as age 2 or 3. Not all autistic children show all the signs. Many show just a few. 

If your child exhibits any of the following signs, reach out to Sethu as soon as possible:

By 6 months

  • Few or no big smiles or other warm, joyful and engaging expressions
  • Limited or no eye contact

By 9 months

  • Little or no back-and-forth sharing of sounds, smiles or other facial expressions

By 12 months

  • Little or no babbling
  • Little or no back-and-forth gestures such as pointing, showing, reaching or waving
  • Little or no response to name

By 16 months

  • Very few or no words

By 24 months

  • Very few or no meaningful, two-word phrases (not including imitating or repeating)

At any age

  • Loss of previously acquired speech, babbling or social skills
  • Avoidance of eye contact
  • Persistent preference for solitude
  • Difficulty understanding other people’s feelings
  • Delayed language development
  • Persistent repetition of words or phrases (echolalia)
  • Resistance to minor changes in routine or surroundings
  • Restricted interests
  • Repetitive behaviours (flapping, rocking, spinning, etc.)
  • Unusual and intense reactions to sounds, smells, tastes, textures, lights and/or colours


The Autism Department is here to help all parents of children with ASD. Do reach out to us for further information. You can connect with them through Sethu: from Tuesday to Saturday, 9 am to 5 pm on +91-7720013749.