It’s natural for parents and caregivers to have concerns about your child’s development, especially when it comes to autism. Many parents worry that their toddler’s behavior might be a sign of autism spectrum disorder (ASD), but it’s important to remember that every child develops differently. While some behaviors may cause concern, they don’t always indicate autism.
If you’ve ever wondered whether your toddler is showing signs of autism—or if you’re simply trying to better understand their behavior—this list can help. Here are some common signs your toddler is not autistic and is developing within typical developmental milestones.
Responds to Their Name Regularly
By the time toddlers are around 12 months old, they usually respond to their name when called. A child who consistently reacts to being called—whether by turning their head, looking toward the caller, or even coming toward you—is likely demonstrating typical social development.
In contrast, one of the signs of autism is difficulty responding to one’s name, especially by age 1 or 2. If your child consistently answers when you call them, it’s a good indicator that their social communication is developing as expected.
Enjoys Eye Contact
Eye contact is a key component of social interaction. While young toddlers may not always make eye contact, a child who enjoys looking into your eyes and engages with others using eye contact is showing signs of typical social development.
Children with autism may struggle with eye contact or avoid it altogether. If your toddler actively seeks out eye contact with you or others, it’s a positive sign that they are engaging with the world around them in a typical way.
Shows Interest in Pretend Play
Pretend play is an essential developmental milestone. By the time they are 2 or 3 years old, most toddlers begin engaging in imaginative play—pretending to cook, talk on the phone, or mimic actions they see in everyday life.
A lack of interest in pretend play can sometimes be a sign of autism. Children on the spectrum may not engage in these types of imaginative activities as readily. If your toddler loves to pretend and create scenarios, they are likely progressing normally in their social and cognitive development.
Follows Simple Instructions
Does your toddler follow basic commands like “Please give me the ball” or “Can you show me the dog?” Most children without autism are able to follow simple verbal instructions by the time they are around 18-24 months old.
On the other hand, toddlers with autism may have difficulty understanding and responding to verbal cues, particularly in the early stages of development. If your toddler is able to follow your simple instructions, they are likely on track with their communication skills.
Has a Wide Range of Social Emotions
Social-emotional development is another important milestone for toddlers. Most children exhibit a wide range of emotions, from happiness and excitement to fear and frustration. They will often express these emotions outwardly and may react to others’ feelings as well.
In contrast, toddlers with autism may show fewer emotions or struggle to recognize emotions in others. If your child expresses a variety of feelings and responds to the emotions of others, it’s a sign that they are developing typically.
Engages in Reciprocal Conversations
When toddlers start talking, they begin to engage in back-and-forth conversations with others. They ask questions, express their own interests, and respond to questions and comments from others. This kind of social interaction is an important milestone in communication.
Many toddlers on the autism spectrum struggle with reciprocal communication. They may not respond to questions or comments in a typical way. If your toddler is already engaging in conversations and showing interest in two-way communication, they are likely developing in a typical, social manner.
Shows an Interest in Other Children
By age 2, most toddlers start showing interest in other children. They may engage in parallel play, where they play alongside other children, or even try to interact by sharing toys or joining in a group activity. This is a sign that your child is developing typical social skills and is learning how to interact with peers.
On the other hand, toddlers with autism might prefer solitary activities or show limited interest in other children. If your toddler actively seeks out other kids for play, it’s a good sign of typical social development.
Has a Varied Diet and Enjoys New Foods
While every child can be picky about food at times, most toddlers without autism enjoy a variety of foods and are willing to try new textures and flavors. This is a normal part of development as children begin to explore the world through taste.
Children with autism, however, may have strong preferences for certain foods and textures, often limiting their diets to a few select items. If your toddler enjoys a wide variety of foods and is open to trying new dishes, it’s a positive indicator of typical development.
Has Typical Motor Development
By the time they are walking and running, most toddlers demonstrate typical motor development. This includes skills like crawling, walking, jumping, and balancing. Some toddlers may develop these skills a little earlier or later than others, but there is usually a general pattern.
Children with autism might experience delays in motor skills, such as walking or running later than their peers or showing differences in movement patterns. If your toddler is hitting their motor milestones within the typical range, it suggests they are on track developmentally.
Exhibits a Range of Nonverbal Communication
Nonverbal communication—such as using gestures, pointing, and facial expressions—is one of the first ways toddlers express themselves. Most toddlers will use a variety of nonverbal cues to communicate their needs or feelings.
If your toddler is using gestures (pointing to objects, waving goodbye, etc.) and facial expressions to communicate, they are showing typical communication development. In contrast, children with autism may use fewer nonverbal cues and have difficulty expressing themselves through gestures.
Conclusion
While this list highlights common signs that your toddler is likely not autistic, it’s important to remember that every child is unique, and developmental timelines can vary.
If you ever have concerns about your child’s development, don’t hesitate to contact to a Gold Heart ABA. Early intervention is key to addressing any challenges, and professional guidance from an ABA therapy in New Jersey is the best way to understand your child’s unique needs.