It can be difficult to tell if a newborn has autism, as many of the early signs are not specific to autism and can also be caused by other conditions. However, there are some signs that can appear by the time your newborn reaches three months old that could indicate they are on the autism spectrum.

If you suspect that your newborn has autism, our team at ACES is here to help with an assessment, early infant intervention, ABA therapy, and more. Contact us or learn more about ACES to get started.

Sound & Touch

If your baby does not respond to sound or touch, or if they seem to be in their own world, these could be signs of autism. Babies who are diagnosed with autism often have difficulties with communication and social interaction and may exhibit repetitive behaviors or sensory sensitivities, even as a newborn.

Feeding

If your baby is not feeding well, it could be a sign of autism. This includes problems with sucking, swallowing, and coordinated movements necessary for breastfeeding. Some babies with autism have difficulty with motor skills and coordination or sensory issues, which can make eating a challenge.

Eye Contact

If your baby does not make eye contact or only makes fleeting eye contact, this could be a sign of autism. On top of that, another sign to watch for is that your baby does not follow objects with their eyes or track people’s movements. This can also be a sign of autism because babies with autism have a difficult time with social interactions.

Not Smiling

A lack of smiles is another red flag that can indicate autism. Babies who are autistic may not smile at all or they may only smile in certain situations. Like with eye contact, this is because babies with autism often have difficulty reading social cues.

Some babies on the autism spectrum will smile at people they are comfortable with but not strangers.

Behavior

Some babies may show signs of autism through their behavior, such as crying more than usual, being fussy or irritable, or having difficulty sleeping. If you're concerned about your child's development, don't hesitate to reach out to your pediatrician for a consultation. Early diagnosis and treatment is key in helping children with autism thrive.

Reach Out to Our Autism Therapy Specialists

There is no one-size-fits-all answer when it comes to autism diagnosis, but if you are concerned that your newborn has autism, it is important to seek out a professional. Early intervention, such as ABA therapy, can be extremely beneficial in helping children reach their full potential.

If you would like more information about autism assessment or therapy for your child, please don't hesitate to find a location near you. We offer a variety of services and programs tailored to meet the needs of each individual child, so you can be sure they get the best possible care. Contact us today!