Although every individual on the autism spectrum has different needs and displays different symptoms, there are signs that you can look out for if you think that you or someone you know might have autism.

Spoken language

• Delayed speech development. You can assess their speech development by comparing it with other children of the same age. Speaking less than 50 words by the age of two or not speaking at all would be considered as delayed speech development
• Frequent repetition of certain words or phrases
• Monotonous or flat sounding speech
• If a child can speak in sentences but prefers to communicate using single words or short phrases

Interacting with others

• Not responding when their name is called
• Rejecting cuddles initiated by their family members (although they might initiate cuddles themselves)
• Having an unusually negative reaction when asked to do something
• Being intolerant of people being in their personal space
• Little or no interest in interacting with others (of their own age or otherwise)
• Not enjoying activities such as birthday parties or play areas which are busy and noisy
• Rarely using facial expressions or hand gestures when communicating
• Avoiding eye contact

Behaviour

• Repetitive movements such as flapping their hands, rocking, jumping up and down or flicking their fingers
• Playing with toys in a repetitive way, such as placing toys in size order or colour groups rather than showing more creative play
• Preferring to have a familiar routine and becoming upset if there is a change
• Having a strong like or dislike for certain foods, this may be due to colour or texture as much as taste

For information about getting a diagnosis, click here.