When Can Autism Develop? A Parent’s Guide to Early Autism Diagnosis

It can be difficult as a parent to wonder if your child is meeting all their developmental goalposts on time. We never want them to grow up too fast, but what happens when something feels off like your toddler isn’t reacting to their name or shows signs of struggling to connect with others as they grow? Challenges like these can lead to questions about autism spectrum disorder (ASD), a condition affecting approximately 1 in 36 children in the U.S. The good news is that autism can often be detected early, sometimes even before the age of 2, and an early diagnosis can open the door to life-changing interventions.

At Scottsdale PBS, we understand the importance of timing. We’ll walk you through the timeline of early diagnosis of autism in children, how it works, and why acting swiftly can shape your child’s future for the better.

Why Early Autism Detection Makes a Difference

Autism is a neurodevelopmental condition that influences communication, social interaction, and behavior, with symptoms varying across a broad spectrum. Some children may struggle with speech, while others fixate on specific routines. Diagnosing autism early—ideally before age 3—can lead to significant improvements in language, social skills, and independence.

For example, a toddler who starts speech therapy at 18 months might learn to use words and gestures to better communicate, reducing frustration and tantrums. The brain’s adaptability, or neuroplasticity, is highest in the early years, making timely intervention critical. Scottsdale PBS offers diagnostic assessments for children to help families act swiftly and effectively.

The Timeline of Autism Diagnosis and Development

Diagnosing autism is a process that unfolds over time, usually starting with a parent’s observations and escalating to professional evaluations. Here’s a detailed look at the typical timeline, focusing on key stages from birth to age 3, when early autism signs parents should watch out for become most apparent.

Birth to 12 Months: Early Observations

In the first year of life, babies begin the process of early development the foundational social and communication skills they need to interact with the world. During this time, parents might notice subtle differences, like a baby who rarely makes eye contact or doesn’t show interest in verbal attempts at communication. For instance, a 1-year-old might focus on a toy or loud sound but not react when their name is called. These early developmental milestones don’t confirm autism, but they’re worth noting. Pediatricians often monitor development during visits, using checklists to track milestones like smiling or pointing. If concerns arise, they may recommend a developmental screening. This stage is all about staying alert and sharing observations with your doctor to catch potential issues early.

12 to 18 Months: Screening and Red Flags

By 18 months, social and language skills become clearer. Most toddlers say at least a few words, point to objects, and enjoy simple games and playing with toys. If your child has communication delays, like not saying “mama” or shows little to no interest in interacting with adults or other children, these could be signs of autism. The CDC recommends autism screenings at 18 months, often using tools like the Modified Checklist for Autism in Toddlers (M-CHAT). This quick questionnaire, completed by parents, asks about behaviors like whether your child responds to their name or shows interest in others. For example, a toddler might ignore others’ attempts to play but fixate on lining up toys. If the screening raises concerns, your pediatrician may refer you to a specialist. Scottsdale PBS can step in with expert evaluations to clarify these early signs.

18 to 24 Months: Comprehensive Evaluation

Between 18 and 24 months, a formal diagnosis becomes more feasible. If early screenings suggest autism, specialists like developmental pediatricians, psychologists, or neurologists conduct a comprehensive evaluation. This process, which may span several visits, includes:

• Parent Interviews: You’ll share details about your child’s behavior, like whether or not they’re using two-word phrases by 24 months or showing repetitive actions, such as clapping or hand-flapping.
• Observations: Specialists observe your child in play or social settings, noting if they avoid interaction or focus on details, like lining up objects.
• Standardized Tests: Tools like the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule (ADOS) assess social, communication, and behavioral skills through structured activities.

These evaluations aim to confirm or rule out autism, distinguishing it from other conditions like language delays. By 24 months, a reliable diagnosis is often possible, especially if clear signs, like loss of previously acquired skills, are present. Scottsdale PBS offers diagnostic assessments for children, ensuring a thorough and compassionate process.

2 to 3 Years: Confirming and Acting

By age 3, autism diagnoses become more definitive as children’s social and communication abilities grow. If your child struggles with short sentences, avoids peer play, or only shows intense focus on specific objects—like only playing with certain toys or only wanting to talk about insects, but not other subjects, for example—a diagnosis may be confirmed. The evaluation process at this stage refines earlier findings, incorporating updated observations and tests. Once diagnosed, early intervention can begin immediately. Therapies like Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), speech, or occupational therapy target specific needs, such as teaching a child to request items or manage sensory sensitivities.
Scottsdale PBS provides reliable and effective ABA therapy for toddlers in Scottsdale, Arizona, working alongside your family to tailor treatment plans to your child’s unique strengths.

How Diagnosing Autism in Children Early Works

The diagnostic process is a team effort, joining your insights and concerns as a parent with professional expertise and guidance. It starts with your observations at home: maybe your toddler doesn’t point to show when they want something or seems overly upset by loud noises. You share these observations with your pediatrician, who may conduct a developmental screening using tools like the M-CHAT. If results suggest autism, a specialist team steps in, including:

• Developmental Pediatricians: These experts assess overall development and medical history.
• Psychologists: Childhood developmental psychologists evaluate cognitive and behavioral patterns to identify challenges.
• Speech or Occupational Therapists: They test specific skills, like language or motor abilities, and build a tailored plan to strengthen your child’s communication and physical capability.

This team uses standardized tools, parent interviews, and observations to build a complete picture. The process typically takes a few hours across multiple visits, ensuring accuracy. Once complete, you receive a detailed report with a diagnosis and recommendations, like starting ABA therapy. Scottsdale PBS guides families through this process, offering clarity and actionable steps.

Why The Timeline for Catching Autism Early Matters

Starting interventions as early as possible matters because young children’s brains are highly adaptable, thanks to a phenomenon called neuroplasticity. Interventions like ABA therapy leverage this to teach skills during critical developmental windows. For example, a toddler diagnosed at 18 months who starts therapy might learn to make eye contact to connect or use simple phrases by age 3, setting them up for success in preschool. Waiting too long can narrow this window, making progress slower. The CDC notes that children diagnosed and treated early show better outcomes in communication and social skills. Scottsdale PBS is committed to helping families act quickly with personalized support.

What Parents Can Do

If you suspect your child has autism, take these steps:

• Track Behaviors: Note specific concerns, like your child not responding to their name or repeating actions, and share them with your pediatrician.
• Request Screenings: Ask for autism-specific screenings at 18 and 24 months during wellness visits.
• Seek Specialist Care: If screenings raise concerns, pursue a comprehensive evaluation with specialists. Scottsdale PBS offers expert autism assessments for children in Arizona.
• Start Intervention Early: If diagnosed, begin therapies like ABA or speech therapy immediately to maximize progress.

Your role as a parent is important as your observations and initiative guide the process.

You Can Trust Scottsdale PBS to Help

Time is critical when it comes to autism treatment. If you’re noticing early autism signs in your child, don’t wait to act. Contact Scottsdale PBS today for expert diagnostic assessments and personalized ABA therapy. Our compassionate team is here to support your family’s journey. Reach out now to give your child the best start possible.