Understanding Early Developmental Signs of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)
By Dr. Tatiana, Expert Contributor on Calabasas and Hidden Hills Living
January 1, 2026
Early childhood is full of milestones — first words, first steps, first smiles. But for some families, these moments look a little different. Parents can be highly engaged and proactive, however, noticing early developmental red flags can be the beginning of an important journey: one toward understanding, supporting, and planning for a child’s long-term needs.
One of the earliest indicators families may observe is delayed or atypical communication. This does not always mean a child is silent. Some children develop a strong vocabulary but use language differently than expected — repeating phrases instead of initiating conversation, using scripted speech, or speaking more to label objects than to connect with others. Others may not point to request or share interest, which is a key early social skill.
Another common red flag is differences in joint attention — the natural back-and-forth sharing of experiences. A child may enjoy playing near others but not with them. They may respond inconsistently to their name, prefer predictable play, or show interest in routines more than in people. These are often subtle behaviors that parents describe as “easy” or “independent,” but they can signal a difference in social communication development.
Families may also notice behavioral or sensory differences. This can include repetitive movements (hand-flapping, rocking, spinning), lining up toys, unusually intense focus on parts of objects, or sensitivity to sounds, textures, and lights. Some children may seek sensory input — jumping, crashing, or spinning — while others avoid it. These patterns can easily be misinterpreted as “quirks,” but when they persist, they provide valuable diagnostic information.
It’s important to remember that these signs do not automatically mean a child has Autism. Children grow at their own pace, and many behaviors overlap across developmental stages. What matters is the overall pattern and whether the child is consistently engaging, communicating, and connecting in age-expected ways. Early screening and evaluation help provide clarity and, if needed, access to life-changing early intervention services.
The earlier a family understands their child’s needs, the sooner they can build a framework that supports them — not just now, but across transitions: preschool, elementary school, adolescence, and adulthood. This is what we call care continuity. It ensures that the child’s clinical, behavioral, and developmental needs remain supported over time, even as those needs evolve.
If you notice patterns that raise questions or simply want guidance on how to ensure long-term continuity of care, I welcome you to reach out. My role is to help families navigate these early signs with clarity — and create a care plan that supports your child’s well-being at every stage of life.
