Signs of autism may sometimes be noticed in children between 18 and 24 months. Autism can disturb how a child talks, plays, acts, or connects with others. Each child is different, so signs can differ from one child to another. A child may make little eye contact, use only a few words, not reply when their name is called, or display less interest in playing with others.
Some children may repeat the same actions or have anxiety with changes, react strongly to sounds, textures, or other things around them. Learning these early signs can help parents understand their child and seek professional guidance when needed.
What Are the Early Signs of Autism at 18-24 Months?
Early signs of autism can show up in how a child talks, plays, interacts with others, behaves, or reacts to sounds and other things around them. Some children may show only a few signs while others may show many.
1: Difficulty Sharing Attention
Joint attention means sharing something exciting with another person. For example: a child may get a bird, point at it, and then look at their parent to show them the bird. A child with possible autism may find this tough. They may enjoy a toy but not show it to their parents, or they may not look at them to share their happiness.
Parents can notice if their child points at things, takes toys to show others, or looks at them during fun activities. These actions help children connect and communicate with others. Difficulty with pointing, showing things, or sharing interests can be an early sign of autism.
2: Limited Facial Expressions
Toddlers use their faces just to display how they feel. They may smile when they are pleased, laugh when they are excited, or look disappointed when something bothers them.
A possible sign of autism is when a child displays very limited facial expressions. They may also have trouble understanding how other people are feeling from their faces.
Parents may notice:
- The child does not smile frequently.
- The child shows little excitement when seeing family members.
- The child’s face may look the same in various situations.
- The child may not copy another person’s smile.
- The child may not notice when somebody looks pleased or sad.
Fewer facial expressions do not always mean a child has autism. Parents should also look at the child’s communication, life skills, or play. If they notice some signs, they can consult a pediatrician for help.
3: Less Imitation of Others
Imitation benefits toddlers as they learn by watching and copying others. Children may copy simple movements, sounds, facial expressions, or actions throughout play.
For example, they may clap, wave, dance, feed a toy, or make animal sounds. A child who infrequently copies others may have difficulty learning through normal actions. Parents can support the child by demonstrating simple actions or giving the child time to copy them.
They can also watch how the child copies actions throughout play and everyday routines. Not copying others does not always mean autism, but it can be a sign to discuss with a pediatrician.
4: Difficulty With Simple Social Games
Many toddlers enjoy simple games such as peekaboo, clapping, chasing, or rolling a ball. These games help children learn to play, talk, share, or take turns with others.
A toddler may:
- Not enjoy playing simple games with others.
- Wish to play only most of the time.
- Not copy simple actions throughout games.
- Have anxiety about taking turns.
- Not respond when somebody tries to play with them.
- Walk away when a parent starts a game.
- Show more interest in toys than playing with people.
Playing alone sometimes is normal and does not mean a child has autism. But it may be a concern when it happens along with other social or communication differences.
Parents can gently invite the child to play without forcing them. Simple or fun games can help children practice playing and interacting with others.
5: Limited Pretend Play
Between 18 and 24 months, children may start playing simple pretend games. They may pretend just to feed a toy animal, give a toy cup to somebody, or talk on a toy phone. These games help children learn how to use toys in typical ways.
Some children with autism may show less interest in pretend play. They may use toys in the same way repeatedly, such as spinning wheels, hand flapping, lining up toys, or playing with only one part of a toy. They may also have trouble copying pretend actions or joining simple make-believe games with others.
6: Unusual Ways of Playing With Toys
Some toddlers may play with toys in a changed way. They may like one minor part of a toy more than playing with the full toy. For example, they may spin the wheels of a toy car instead of driving it.
Parents may notice:
- Spinning toy wheels over and over.
- Opening and closing a toy various times.
- Lining up cars, blocks, or other toys.
- Putting toys in the same order each time.
- Watching moving parts for a long time.
- Concentrating on one minor part of a toy.
- Doing the same action repeatedly.
These play habits can sometimes be observed in children with autism, particularly when other social or communication changes are also present. Every child plays in their own way, so one uncommon play habit does not mean a child has autism.
7: Loss of Previously Learned Skills
A particularly key threatening sign is loss of skills. A toddler may stop using words, gestures, social behaviors, money management, or play skills that they previously used.
For example: a child may discontinue saying words they once used habitually or become less interested in interacting with family members. Discuss any clear loss of developmental skills with a healthcare professional. Parents do not need to wait until the child turns 24 months to seek advice.
Signs Can Look Different from Child to Child
Autism can look different in each child. This is why it is called a spectrum disorder. Some children may have trouble speaking or communicating, while others may show constant actions or strong reactions to sounds, lights, or touch.
Parents may notice:
- A child may use fewer words than expected.
- A child may have trouble talking or sharing what they need.
- A child may repeat the same movements, sounds, or actions.
- A child may not like loud sounds, bright lights, or certain textures.
- Some children may look to develop usually at first and later show clearer symbols.
Parents should not compare their children with other children because every child develops at their own pace. But if parents notice constant concerns, then they should talk to a doctor or other healthcare professional.
Regular checkups can help parents understand their child’s development. Early support can help children improve communication, social skills, or daily activities.
Also Read: Signs of Autism in Children Ages 9-12 Months | Signs of Autism in Children Ages 12-18 Months
Conclusion:
To summarize, noticing possible signs of autism in children ages 18-24 months can help parents seek support at the right time. Parents should not panic if their child develops differently, as every child grows at their own pace. Discussing concerns with a healthcare professional can provide clarity and guidance.
At RightWay ABA, we help families understand their child’s needs through personalized ABA therapy and early support. Our team creates individualized strategies to help children improve communication, social skills, and daily living abilities. Contact us today to learn how we can support your child’s growth and development.
