The earliest signs of autism in babies and toddlers are subtle, but knowing what to look for can make a big difference. While most children are diagnosed at 5 or 6 — or even older — identifying autism spectrum disorder (ASD) before that can give kids access to support that can help them build skills during a critical stage of development.

Traits of autism are grouped into two main categories: social communication challenges and certain kinds of unusual, repetitive behaviors. This week, we’re offering a new article that explores what these traits can look like in very young children. There are signs of communication challenges even before kids learn to talk, when they don’t use typical hand gestures like pointing to things, and showing and giving things to others. And behaviors identified with autism can look like hand-flapping or spinning, unusually intense interests, but also intense reactions to sensory stimuli like bright lights, loud noises, or the texture of certain foods. We also round up what you should know about getting an evaluation for autism, and the therapies that help kids develop communication skills.

– Caroline Miller, Editorial Director | ✉