Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) can present differently in every child, especially during the early developmental stages. Recognizing the signs early can help families get timely support and interventions that significantly improve long-term outcomes. In this detailed guide, we’ll explore the early signs of autism in toddlers, backed by pediatrician-approved insights, and highlight how Sri Balaji Action Medical Institute, home to some of the best pediatricians in Delhi NCR, offers expert care and evaluation.
What is Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)?
Autism Spectrum Disorder is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects communication, social skills, and behavior. The term “spectrum” refers to the wide range of symptoms and severity. Some children may be non-verbal, while others might have strong verbal skills but struggle with social cues.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that 1 in 36 children in the U.S. has ASD. In India, while awareness is growing, early identification remains a challenge due to limited access and understanding. That’s where institutions like Sri Balaji Action Medical Institute step in—bridging the gap between observation and action.
Why Early Detection is Crucial
Early detection of autism is key to ensuring children receive the right therapies and educational support. Interventions like speech therapy, occupational therapy, and behavioral therapy can vastly improve a child’s ability to function independently later in life.
The best pediatricians in Delhi NCR, particularly those at Sri Balaji Action Medical Institute, stress that identifying early signs—even before a formal diagnosis—is essential. When parents, caregivers, or teachers notice something unusual in a child’s behavior, it's important to consult a pediatrician for a detailed evaluation.
Developmental Milestones to Watch
Before diving into autism-specific signs, it's helpful to understand what typical developmental milestones look like. Every child is unique, but generally:
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By 6 months: Most babies smile, make eye contact, and react to sounds.
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By 12 months: They respond to their name, babble, and show curiosity.
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By 18 months: Toddlers use a few words, imitate others, and express emotions.
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By 24 months: They begin using simple phrases and understand simple instructions.
Delays or abnormalities in these stages can be early flags for ASD.
1. Lack of Eye Contact
One of the most common early indicators of autism in toddlers is limited or no eye contact. While some babies are naturally more reserved, consistent avoidance of eye contact—even with close family members—can be a red flag.
The pediatric team at Sri Balaji Action Medical Institute often emphasizes that while occasional disinterest is normal, persistent disengagement from visual interaction warrants professional observation.
2. Delayed Speech or Lack of Babbling
Speech delay is often the first concern that brings parents to a pediatrician. A child with ASD may:
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Not babble by 12 months
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Not say single words by 16 months
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Not form two-word phrases by 24 months
If you observe these delays, consulting the best pediatrician in Delhi NCR can help rule out or confirm developmental concerns.
3. Limited Gestures and Non-Verbal Communication
Pointing, waving, or showing objects to others are typical toddler behaviors. A child with autism may not engage in these actions, making it harder for them to communicate needs non-verbally.
This could manifest as:
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Not pointing at objects
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Not waving goodbye
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Not using gestures to express excitement or interest
4. Repetitive Behaviors (Stimming)
Repetitive behaviors, also known as self-stimulatory behavior or "stimming", include:
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Hand-flapping
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Rocking back and forth
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Lining up toys or objects
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Repeating the same words or phrases (echolalia)
These behaviors can be soothing for the child but may also limit their ability to engage with the world around them.
5. Difficulty With Social Interactions
Children on the spectrum may prefer playing alone, show little interest in interacting with peers, or struggle with sharing and turn-taking.
They may also:
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Not respond to their name
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Avoid physical contact like hugging
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Not show interest in other children’s activities
This social disconnect is often noticed during playgroups or daycare interactions and is one of the primary signs evaluated by experienced pediatricians in Delhi NCR.
6. Inflexibility to Changes in Routine
Toddlers with autism often show an intense need for routine and predictability. Sudden changes—like a new route to school or a different breakfast food—can lead to distress or tantrums.
Such rigidity can hinder adaptability in environments like school or public spaces, making early interventions crucial for behavioral development.
7. Sensory Sensitivities
Sensory processing issues are common in autistic children. These may include:
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Hyper-sensitivity to sounds, lights, textures, or smells
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Hypo-sensitivity, where the child doesn’t react to pain or extreme temperatures
For example, a child may cover their ears at everyday noises like a vacuum cleaner or show aversion to specific clothing materials.
8. Regression of Skills
Some toddlers may develop typically but then lose previously acquired skills—a phenomenon known as regression. This can involve:
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Stopping speech
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Losing social smiles
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Ceasing to make eye contact
This is a major red flag and requires immediate pediatric evaluation. Sri Balaji Action Medical Institute’s developmental specialists have extensive experience in dealing with such regression cases.
9. Lack of Joint Attention
Joint attention is the shared focus between a child and another person on an object or event. This typically includes:
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Looking where someone is pointing
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Bringing toys to show others
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Engaging others in their interests
A toddler who consistently avoids shared focus may struggle with reciprocal social interaction, a core feature of autism.
10. Unusual Play Patterns
Instead of imaginative or interactive play, autistic children may:
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Spin wheels of a toy car repeatedly instead of driving it
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Stack blocks methodically rather than building
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Watch parts of a video clip over and over
These play patterns are less about exploration and more about repetition, often requiring professional guidance to redirect effectively.
Diagnostic Tools Pediatricians Use
Top-tier institutions like Sri Balaji Action Medical Institute use globally recognized tools for autism assessment, such as:
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M-CHAT-R/F (Modified Checklist for Autism in Toddlers – Revised with Follow-Up)
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ADOS (Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule)
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CARS (Childhood Autism Rating Scale)
These tools help pediatricians and developmental experts make accurate, early diagnoses, enabling parents to start therapy at the earliest.
How Sri Balaji Action Medical Institute Supports Early Autism Detection
As one of the leading pediatric centers in Delhi NCR, Sri Balaji Action Medical Institute offers:
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Comprehensive developmental screenings
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Multidisciplinary autism support team (pediatricians, psychologists, therapists)
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Parental counseling and education
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Customized therapy programs
Their team ensures that parents are not just informed but also actively involved in their child’s progress.
What to Do if You Notice Signs of Autism
If you observe any of the above signs in your toddler:
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Document your observations with dates and examples.
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Schedule a consultation with a pediatrician or developmental specialist.
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Ask for screening tests and assessments.
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Seek a second opinion if you’re unsure.
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Start early intervention if recommended—don’t wait for a formal diagnosis.
The earlier you act, the more doors you open for your child’s development.
When to Visit the Best Pediatrician in Delhi NCR
You should consult a pediatrician at Sri Balaji Action Medical Institute if your child:
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Isn’t making eye contact by 6 months
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Doesn’t respond to name by 12 months
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Isn’t speaking simple words by 16-18 months
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Shows repetitive behaviors or unusual play
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Reacts strongly to sensory stimuli
Their dedicated child development center provides full-spectrum care for children suspected to be on the autism spectrum.
Conclusion
Autism isn’t a roadblock—it’s a different route to understanding the world. Recognizing signs of autism early in toddlers can be life-changing. Parents must stay alert to developmental milestones and act swiftly if concerns arise. With the right diagnosis, therapy, and expert guidance—such as that offered by the best pediatricians in Delhi NCR at Sri Balaji Action Medical Institute—children with autism can lead enriched, fulfilling lives.
If you're concerned about your child’s development, don’t wait. Book a consultation today at Sri Balaji Action Medical Institute and take the first step toward a brighter, more informed future for your child.
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