The earliest symptoms of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) can vary greatly from one person to the next. Some of the most common signs and symptoms in early childhood may include delays in developing speech and language, difficulty with social interactions, repetitive behaviors, and difficulty with changes in routine.
Delays in developing speech and language are often the earliest indicators of ASD. A child may be slower to learn to talk than their peers, or they may not use any words at all. They may also have difficulty making eye contact and understanding nonverbal cues such as facial expressions and body language. They may also have difficulty engaging in back-and-forth conversations or comprehending what others are saying.
Difficulty with social interactions is another common symptom of ASD. A child may have trouble understanding social rules, such as taking turns in conversations and understanding personal boundaries. They may also have difficulty initiating or sustaining conversations, or understanding jokes and sarcasm. They may also avoid eye contact or prefer to be alone.
Repetitive behaviors are also common in those with ASD. A child may engage in behaviors such as hand-flapping, rocking, spinning, and repeating certain phrases or words. They may also become obsessed with certain topics or objects and have difficulty transitioning to other activities.
Finally, difficulty with changes in routine can be a symptom of ASD. A child may become anxious or overwhelmed when their routine is disrupted, or when they are asked to do something new. They may also have difficulty with changes in their environment, such as moving to a new home or starting a new school.
Overall, the earliest symptoms of ASD can vary greatly from one person to the next. However, delays in developing speech and language, difficulty with social interactions, repetitive behaviors, and difficulty with changes in routine are some of the most common signs and symptoms in early childhood.