← Ask your own question

What are the signs of autism in toddlers?

Common early signs include reduced eye contact, not responding to their name, little pointing or showing interest to share, delayed or unusual language, and repetitive behaviours. Some toddlers also lose skills they once had, usually between 15 and 24 months.

The Canadian Paediatric Society recommends watching for these signs at every well-child visit, with special attention at the 18-month checkup.

Strength of evidence

Good

Based on a Canadian national guideline (CPS position statement) plus supporting population-based and cohort studies; no randomized trials exist for 'diagnosing' behavioural signs since this is observational surveillance, not an intervention.

What the evidence says

The Canadian Paediatric Society describes autism as involving differences in social communication along with repetitive behaviours or restricted interests and unusual sensory reactions. In toddlers, this can show up as reduced eye contact, not responding when their name is called, limited pointing or showing things to share enjoyment, delayed language, or language that sounds unusually formal or scripted. Some toddlers seem to develop typically at first and then lose words or social engagement, most often between 15 and 24 months of age.

This kind of regression is one of the patterns doctors are specifically trained to ask about. Because these signs can emerge gradually, the Canadian Paediatric Society recommends developmental surveillance at every visit, with particular focus at the 18-month checkup, since this is a common time for signs to become noticeable. The American Academy of Pediatrics similarly recommends formal screening at the 18- and 24-month visits.

If you notice any of these signs, mention them to your child's doctor rather than waiting, since earlier assessment and support are linked to better long-term outcomes.

Sources

✓Reviewed by CH, MD, FRCPC

Reviewed by a specialist physician certified by the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada, who has read this answer against the sources listed above and confirmed it reflects them. That is not medical advice about your child. How we review

Answer checked August 3, 2026

Educational information only. Not medical advice, not a diagnosis, and no doctor-patient relationship is created by using this. Founded Parent has not examined your child and does not know their history, so this may not apply to you. In an emergency, call your local emergency number. What Founded Parent cannot do

Report a problem with this answer

Related questions

Have a different question? Founded Parent searches published paediatric guidelines and peer-reviewed research, then tells you how strong the evidence actually is.

Ask a question

Educational information only. Not medical advice, not a diagnosis, and no doctor-patient relationship is created by using this. Founded Parent has not examined your child and does not know their history, so its answers may not apply to you. Never delay or disregard advice from a qualified health professional because of something you read here. In an emergency, call your local emergency number.