Autism usually manifests in the first year of life; its onset is not later than 3 years. Listed below are some of the things to watch for as a child grows. These developmental landmarks may be used as a guide to gauge a child’s development. If there are any concerns about a child’s development or if there is a loss of any skills at any age talk to a doctor as soon as possible.
Normal
Autism
By end of 12 months
By end of 12 months
Watches faces intently, responds to other people’s expressions of emotion
Does not pay attention to or frightened of new faces
Smiles, imitates some facial expressions, follows moving object with eyes
Does not smile, does not follow moving object with eyes
Begins to babble, imitates sounds and words, brings hand to mouth
Does not babble, laugh and has difficulty bringing objects to the mouth
Has single words like “dada”, repeats sounds or gestures for attention
Has no words
Turns head toward direction of sound, responds to own name
Does not turn head to locate sounds and appears not to respond to loud noises
Pushes down on legs when feet placed on a firm surface; raises head and chest when lying on stomach
Does not push down on legs when feet placed on a firm surface
Smiles at mother or primary care-givers voice, prefers them over all others
Does not show affection to primary care-giver, dislikes being cuddled
Can sit up without assistance, can pull self up to stand, walks holding on to furniture
Does not crawl, cannot stand when supported
Waves ‘bye-bye’ and points to objects
Does not use gestures such as waving or pointing
Normal
Autism
By 24 months
By 24 months
Walks alone, with support can negotiate stairs and furniture, carries and pulls toys while walking
Cannot walk by 18 months or walks only on his toes, cannot push a wheeled toy
Has several single words by 15 to 18 months; uses simple phrases by 24 months
Does not speak; does not imitate actions, cannot follow simple instructions
Imitates behavior of others, excited about company of other children
Does not appear to know the function of common household object such as a telephone by 15 months
Normal
Autism
By 36 months
By 36 months
Uses 4-5 word sentences, understands most sentences and instructions
Very limited speech, does not use short phrases, has difficulty in understanding simple instructions
Imitates adults and playmates, expresses affection openly, separates easily from parents
Has little interest in other children, has difficulty separating from mother or primary care-giver
Sorts objects by shape and color
Difficulty in manipulating small objects
Plays make believe
Has little interest in ‘make-believe’ play
Climbs well, runs, kicks a ball, negotiates stairs unaided
