What is Autism Spectrum Disorder?

You know your child best, and when something feels different, it’s natural to have questions. Maybe they’re not speaking yet, avoid eye contact, or play in ways that seem repetitive. These signs can be confusing, but understanding them is the first step in supporting your child’s development.

Read below to learn what Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is, early signs to watch for, and why tracking milestones matters.

What is Autism Spectrum Disorder?

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects how a child communicates, interacts, and experiences the world. It’s called a “spectrum” because it looks different in every child. Some may have limited language or avoid social interaction, while others speak well but struggle with social cues. What unites these differences is a unique, and not lesser, way of thinking and processing.

Autism is not:

• A disease or illness
• Caused by bad parenting or vaccines
• A sign that your child isn't intelligent or capable
  

Autism simply means the brain is wired differently, and recognizing this can help your child thrive with the right support. 

Understanding the Core Features of Autism 

When doctors evaluate for autism, they look for patterns in two main areas: 

1. Differences in Social Communication and Interaction

This can show up as: 

• Trouble with back-and-forth conversations 

• Limited gestures like pointing or waving 

• Difficulty understanding emotions or facial expressions 

• Struggles with making or maintaining friendships 

These might include: 

• Repetitive movements like hand-flapping or rocking 

• Strong preferences for routines or sameness 

• Intense interests in specific topics (e.g., trains, numbers, ceiling fans) 

• Unusual responses to sounds, textures, or lights (very sensitive or seeking out certain sensations) 

Children don’t need to show all these traits. Autism presents in many different ways, which is why looking at the full picture is so important. 

Developmental Milestones: What Should My Child Be Doing? 

Every child develops at their own pace, but there are general milestones that provide helpful checkpoints. If your child is missing multiple milestones or shows signs of regression (losing skills they once had), it may be worth taking a closer look. 

Here’s a quick guide to some key milestones by age: 

If your child isn’t hitting several of these milestones, or if their behavior seems dramatically different from peers, it’s okay to ask questions. Early support can make a big difference. 

Why Autism Can Be Easy to Miss 

Some children with autism show signs early, while others may not be identified until preschool or later. This is especially true for: 

• Children who mask or hide their struggles in social settings 

• Girls, who may present differently and are often diagnosed later 

• Children with strong language skills but subtle social difficulties 

That’s why a comprehensive, developmentally appropriate evaluation is key - not just a “wait and see” approach. 

Why Early Evaluation Matters 

Identifying autism early allows families to: 

• Understand their child’s unique strengths and challenges 

• Access speech, occupational, or behavioral therapies if needed 

• Support emotional and social growth from an early age 

• Navigate school services and insurance coverage with clearer documentation 

Most importantly, early support doesn’t mean trying to change who your child is. It means helping them grow with tools that match how their brain works. 

If you have questions on autism screening or child development, Summus is here to help and will connect you with a child behavioral specialist to walk through all your questions.