Summary of "VERY EARLY AUTISM SIGNS IN BABY | 0-12 Months old | Aussie Autism Family"
Key Early Signs of Autism in Babies (0-12 months) Shared by Aussie Autism Family
- Sleep difficulties
- Baby frequently waking every 2 hours throughout the night.
- Unable to fall asleep independently; needed to be held or soothed by movement.
- Sleep issues persisted throughout the first year.
- Note: Sleep problems affect about 80% of people with autism.
- Extreme unsettledness and need for movement
- Baby cried a lot and required constant movement (bouncing, swaying) to stay calm.
- Could not settle even when being held.
- Attempts to reduce movement soothing were ineffective.
- Repetitive movements (stimming)
- Head shaking side to side starting around 6 months old.
- High-pitched squealing sounds rather than typical babbling.
- These repetitive behaviors continued beyond infancy.
- Sensory sensitivities
- Discomfort with certain textures, e.g., paint on hands caused distress.
- Aversion to things touching skin or hands.
- Sensory issues evident from infancy and persist.
- Lack of shared interest or joint attention
- No showing or bringing toys to caregivers to share enjoyment.
- Preferred solitary play and became upset if interrupted.
- Missed typical social engagement milestones by end of first year.
- Not responding to name
- Did not respond when called by name.
- Responded more to loud or high-pitched noises instead.
- Hearing was tested and confirmed normal.
- Fixations on unusual objects
- Strong fascination with spinning wheels (trolley wheels, bike wheels).
- Mesmerized by fans, staring at them for long periods.
- Fixations persisted and evolved with age (coins and counters currently).
- Staring at lights and ceiling objects
- Baby often stared intently at lights or ceiling fixtures.
- Considered an early form of fixation or sensory interest.
- Not pointing to objects or sharing attention
- Did not point to show or request things.
- Did not follow others’ pointing gestures.
- This lack of joint attention was a missed early sign.
Advice and Recommendations
- These signs are based on one family's experience and may not apply to every child.
- Some behaviors can be typical in babies but may warrant professional evaluation if persistent or combined.
- If concerned about autism signs, seek early assessment from a GP or pediatrician.
- Early diagnosis and intervention are possible and beneficial.
- Avoid waiting or dismissing concerns as "wait and see."
Additional Resources
- The family has videos on autism signs in the 2nd and 3rd years of life.
- Encourages parents to share their experiences in the comments to support community learning.
Presenters / Sources
- Aussie Autism Family (parents sharing their experience with their son Jacob, diagnosed with Level 3 autism).
Category
Wellness and Self-Improvement
