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What are the red flags for autism in a 2-year-old? The most common signs include limited speech, trouble with eye contact, repeating actions or words, and difficulty engaging with others. These red flags can help parents and caregivers recognize when to seek an evaluation.
Top Red Flags for Autism in a 2-Year-Old
- Speech Delays: Not using simple words or two-word phrases by age 2, or losing language skills they once had.
- Limited Eye Contact: Rarely looks at people or avoids eye contact.
- Repetitive Behaviors: Repeats words, phrases, or actions like lining up toys or rocking.
- Social Challenges: Prefers to play alone, doesn’t share interest in objects, or avoids group play.
- Unusual Reactions: Gets upset by small changes, sensitive to sounds or textures, or shows intense interests in specific objects.
- Nonverbal Cues: Limited gestures like pointing, waving, or imitating others.
Many parents notice their child doesn’t respond to their name, avoids eye contact, or prefers routines. One parent shared, “My son lined up his cars for hours and didn’t look at me when I called him. That’s when I knew I needed help”.
What are the red flags for autism in a 2-year-old? Spotting these signs early makes a difference. If you notice any of these signs, reach out to Epic Minds Therapy—let’s take the first step together and support your child’s growth in North Carolina.
Sources:
- https://autismsa.org.au/autism-diagnosis/autism-symptoms/signs-of-autism-in-babies/
- https://card.ufl.edu/about-autism/autism-checklist/
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5232420/
- https://raisingchildren.net.au/autism/children-autism-videos/early-signs-of-autism-parent-stories
- https://www.cdc.gov/autism/data-research/index.html
- https://www.autismspeaks.org/signs-autism
- https://www.autism360.com/signs-of-autism-in-2-year-old/
- https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/autism/signs/children/
- https://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/actearly/autism/curriculum/documents/early-warning-signs-autism_508.pdf
- https://www.healthychildren.org/English/health-issues/conditions/Autism/Pages/Early-Signs-of-Autism-Spectrum-Disorders.aspx
- https://preciouscareaba.com/blog/autism-red-flags-2-year-old-child/