Early signs of autism and what to do if you notice them

Early signs appear in children up to the age of 2, and if you notice them in a child, it is necessary to seek the help of a specialist.

If the child: 

  • does not make eye contact 

  • does not respond when called by name 

  • doesn't return your smile 

  • does not use a demonstrative gesture 

  • does not use a greeting gesture 

  • is not looking in the direction you are showing him or her / for example you are showing the plane in the sky 

  • does not indicate things to share his/her interest in them with you 

  • does not develop speech and language 

  • repeats words and phrases over and over again (echolalia) 

  • lines up toys in a specific way / for example in a string 

  • is only interested in a part of the toy / for example only on the wheels on the car 

  • has unusual and frequent body movements - flutters hands, spins, swings, walks on toes 

  • upset by small changes in the environment 

If you notice any of these symptoms, you need to contact the child's doctor/pediatrician, who has the opportunity to refer you for further diagnosis to health institutions that deal with these developmental problems.