Autism Signs in Children — Early Diagnosis and What to Do Next in Hyderabad

One in 36 children is now diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) globally. In India, awareness and early diagnosis are improving — but many children are still diagnosed at age 4–5 or later, missing years of critical early intervention. This article helps parents understand the early signs of autism and what to do if they are worried about their child.

What is Autism Spectrum Disorder?

Autism is a neurodevelopmental condition affecting social communication and interaction — combined with restricted, repetitive patterns of behaviour, interests, or activities. It is a spectrum — affecting individuals very differently, from non-verbal children who need full-time support, to highly verbal adults with subtle social differences. It is not caused by vaccines, poor parenting, or a traumatic event.

Early Signs of Autism — From 9 to 24 Months

Social Communication Signs

• Does not respond to their name by 12 months
• Does not point to share interest ("Look, a dog!") by 14 months
• Does not wave bye-bye or play social games (peek-a-boo) by 12 months
• Limited eye contact — particularly when speaking or playing
• Does not imitate actions or facial expressions
• No back-and-forth "conversation" in babble or gestures
• No words by 16 months, no 2-word phrases by 24 months
• Loss of any language or social skills at any age

Restricted and Repetitive Behaviour Signs

• Lines up toys in rows rather than playing with them imaginatively
• Strong attachment to unusual objects
• Repetitive motor movements (flapping hands, spinning, rocking)
• Very fixed routines — severe distress if routine is changed
• Intense, narrow interests (memorises all bus routes, obsessed with one character)
• Unusual sensory responses — covering ears in crowds, distress at specific textures, smells, or sounds

If You Notice These Signs — What to Do

Trust your instinct. If you are worried, seek an assessment early. The M-CHAT-R (Modified Checklist for Autism in Toddlers) is a validated screening tool used in paediatric clinics — it can identify children at risk of ASD from 16 months of age.

"Early intervention for autism — started before age 3 — produces significantly better outcomes for communication, behaviour, and long-term independence. Every month counts."

How Is Autism Diagnosed in Hyderabad?

Autism diagnosis in India is clinical — based on detailed developmental history, observation, and structured assessment tools. The key steps are:

• Developmental assessment by a paediatrician — M-CHAT-R screening, milestone review
• Hearing test — to rule out hearing loss as a cause of language delay
• Autism-specific assessment tools — CARS (Childhood Autism Rating Scale), ADOS-2 (Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule) by a trained assessor
• Referral to speech therapy, occupational therapy, and behaviour therapy (ABA)
• School support planning — IEP (Individualised Education Programme)

What Treatments Help Children with Autism?

The most evidence-based interventions include:

• Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA): Structured teaching of skills with positive reinforcement — the most evidence-based autism intervention
• Speech and Language Therapy: Building communication skills — both verbal and non-verbal (AAC devices, sign language)
• Occupational Therapy: Sensory integration, fine motor skills, and daily living skills
• Early Start Denver Model (ESDM): Play-based early intervention for children aged 1–4 — combines ABA principles with developmental approaches

At Sri Anand Child and Neuro Center, Chanda Nagar, Dr. Sushma B provides developmental paediatric assessment for children with suspected autism — and coordinates referrals to the appropriate therapists and specialist services in Hyderabad. Call +91 90633 66983.