Yes, autism can be diagnosed before age 2, although most diagnoses typically happen around ages 2 to 3. Early signs of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) can appear as early as 12 to 18 months, and with growing awareness and advanced screening tools, specialists can now identify developmental differences even in toddlers.
Some early indicators may include limited eye contact, delayed speech, lack of response to their name, or repetitive movements such as hand-flapping or rocking. A child may also show little interest in social play or struggle with changes in routine.
Early diagnosis is important because it allows families to begin early intervention, including Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy. ABA helps toddlers build communication, social, and self-help skills through play-based learning, setting the foundation for lifelong growth.
At Little Champs ABA, we provide compassionate, individualized ABA therapy in Utah and Colorado, helping young children develop critical skills and confidence from the very start.
Concerned about your toddler’s development? Contact us today!
SOURCES:
https://www.cdc.gov/autism/signs-symptoms/index.html
https://www.nichd.nih.gov/health/topics/autism/conditioninfo/symptoms-appear
https://www.cdc.gov/autism/diagnosis/index.html
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/autism-in-babies
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/autism