Early Signs of Autism

Every child is different.

Every autistic child is different.

There’s no one checklist that fits every story.

But if something feels “off” — something in your child’s development, behaviour, or emotions that stands out — it’s worth paying attention.

This page gently walks through early signs of autism, especially as they appear in younger children and school-aged kids. It’s not here to diagnose — just to help you understand what might be going on.

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You might start to notice…

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Social communication differences

• Limited or no back-and-forth conversation
• Delayed speech or unusual language patterns (e.g. repeating phrases or scripts)
• Not responding consistently to their name
• Difficulty with eye contact — or unusually intense eye contact
• Finding it hard to understand tone, facial expressions, or social cues
• Literal thinking (struggling with jokes, sarcasm, or “pretend” play)

Some autistic children are very verbal and expressive — others are not. It’s the style of communication, not just the words, that may stand out.

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Social connection and play

• Prefers playing alone or alongside others rather than with them (parallel play)
• Difficulty understanding turn-taking or sharing
• Plays differently — arranging, lining up, or fixating on specific objects
• Seems disinterested in other children or overwhelmed in social groups
• May enjoy friendships, but struggles to maintain or understand them

Autistic children often do want friends — but may find social rules confusing, exhausting, or unpredictable.

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Repetitive behaviours and routines

• Repeating actions, movements, or phrases (e.g. hand flapping, spinning, jumping, echoing)
• Intense interest in certain topics, objects, or routines
• Becomes distressed when routines change, even slightly
• Strong need for predictability or sameness (e.g. needing the same route to school, same clothes, same cutlery)

Repetition isn’t always a concern — but when it’s soothing, constant, or leads to meltdowns if interrupted, it’s worth noting.

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Sensory sensitivities

• Covers ears in response to ordinary sounds (hand dryers, vacuum cleaners, loud voices)
• Strong reactions to certain textures, smells, foods, or clothing
• May avoid touch — or seek intense physical pressure (tight hugs, jumping, crashing)
• Very picky eating or limited diet
• Seems to either underreact or overreact to pain, temperature, or light

Sensory needs are often the most misunderstood signs — but they’re central to many autistic children’s experience of the world.

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Emotional regulation and overwhelm

• Intense meltdowns or shutdowns, often triggered by things that seem “small”
• Difficulty calming down once upset
• Struggles with transitions or unexpected events
• Seemingly rigid thinking (“it has to be this way”)
• May bottle everything up at school, then release it all at home

This last one is called masking — and it’s especially common in autistic girls, quiet children, and those who are trying hard to “blend in.”

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A few things to keep in mind:

• Autism looks different in every child
• Some signs might be subtle — especially if your child is masking at school and melting down at home
• Traits often become clearer around age 4–7, especially with increased social and emotional demands
• Some children may seem “fine” in structured environments but struggle with anxiety, regulation, or burnout behind closed doors

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Trust your instinct

You don’t need to tick every box.

You don’t need to wait for school to see what you’re seeing.

If something feels different, and if life feels harder than it should — you’re allowed to ask questions.

You can start by:

• Keeping notes of what you notice
• Speaking to your child’s teacher or SENCO
• Talking to your GP (especially for children under school age)
• Exploring more support here on Mi-Advice — including our forums, lived stories, and diagnosis guides

Early awareness changes lives.

Not by rushing toward a label — but by helping children feel understood, supported, and safe in who they are.

You’re not imagining it. You’re noticing something important.

And that’s where support begins