Does My Child Have Autism? Recognising the Signs and When to Seek an Autism Assessment
As a parent, you know your child better than anyone — so when something doesn’t feel quite right, it’s natural to ask questions.
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects how a child communicates, interacts socially, and experiences the world. Recognising the early signs and seeking support can make a huge difference in helping your child thrive.
What Is Autism?
Autism is a spectrum neurodevelopmental condition, meaning it affects people in different ways and to varying degrees. While some children may have obvious communication differences or sensory sensitivities, others may present more subtly — especially if they are high-masking or have average to above-average language and cognitive skills.
This is why it’s called Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). No two autistic children are exactly alike, and symptoms may look very different between individuals — even those of the same age or gender. Some children may be non-verbal and need significant daily support, while others may speak fluently but struggle to understand social cues or manage change.
Autism is not a mental illness, and it’s not caused by parenting style. With the right understanding and support, autistic children can develop strong identities and live happy, fulfilling lives.
Common Signs of Autism in Children
The signs of autism often become noticeable between the ages of 2 and 5, though some traits may appear earlier or become more obvious with age. If you're asking, “Does my child have autism?”, here are some signs to look for:
🔹 Social Communication Differences
Limited eye contact or not looking at people’s faces during conversation
Not responding to their name by 12 months of age
Preferring to play alone, rather than joining in with peers
Difficulty understanding or using gestures, like waving or pointing
Literal understanding of language, struggling with jokes or metaphors
Delayed or unusual speech development, such as repeating phrases or scripting
🔹 Social Interaction Challenges
Difficulty understanding others’ feelings or facial expressions
Struggling to start or maintain conversations
Speaking in an unusual tone, such as robotic or overly formal
Showing strong interest in adults but struggling with peer relationships
Wanting to talk only about specific topics, regardless of the listener’s interest
🔹 Repetitive Behaviours and Routines
Repetitive movements, such as hand-flapping, rocking, or spinning
Strict need for routine, becoming upset by changes in schedule or environment
Lining up toys or arranging objects in a specific way
Developing intense interests, like memorising facts about animals, space, or maps
Repetitive play, using the same toys in the same way for long periods
🔹 Sensory Differences
Sensitivity to sounds, such as covering ears when there’s noise
Avoiding certain textures, food types, or clothing
Discomfort with bright lights or crowded spaces
Seeking sensory input, such as spinning, jumping, or touching everything
Unusual responses to pain, temperature, or physical contact
Signs of Autism in Girls
Autism is often underdiagnosed in girls because their symptoms may present differently. Girls with autism may:
Mask their difficulties by copying peers or imitating social behaviour
Internalise anxiety, appearing quiet, shy, or withdrawn
Have focused interests that seem more socially typical (e.g. books, animals)
Be seen as “well behaved” in school but struggle at home due to exhaustion from masking
Develop high levels of anxiety or perfectionism, especially in adolescence
Understanding these differences is key to making sure autistic girls receive timely assessments and the support they need.
Should I Get an Autism Assessment for My Child?
If several of the traits above feel familiar — especially if they affect your child’s daily life or relationships — it may be time to explore an autism assessment for your child.
You might also consider seeking an assessment if:
Your child is struggling with friendships, school, or emotional regulation
Teachers or SENCOs have raised concerns about social or behavioural differences
Your child experiences frequent meltdowns, shutdowns, or sensory overloads
You feel your child is often misunderstood or unsupported
Getting a diagnosis can help you and your child access understanding, school accommodations, community services, and the right kind of support to help them thrive.
Final Thoughts
It’s not always easy to ask, “Does my child have autism?” But if you’re noticing traits that make you pause, trust your instincts. Getting answers can bring relief, empowerment, and the knowledge that your child isn’t alone — they just experience the world in a different way.
Early identification and the right support can help autistic children develop confidence, self-understanding, and skills that will serve them for life.
