As a parent, noticing that your toddler is developing differently from their peers can be both confusing and concerning. You might wonder: Is this just a phase, or something more? Recognizing early signs of autism and taking action as soon as possible can make a world of difference.
Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA therapy) therapy is one of the most researched and effective treatments for children with autism. And when started early, it has the potential to dramatically change a child’s developmental path.
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) affects how a child communicates, interacts with others, and experiences the world. Symptoms often appear before age 3, and early signs can vary widely from child to child.
Some toddlers may develop typically and then regress. Others may show signs from infancy. Recognizing those early indicators can help you seek support and begin intervention as soon as possible.
Here are some signs to watch for in toddlers between 12 and 36 months:
Not saying single words by 16 months
No two-word phrases by 24 months
Loss of previously acquired speech
Avoiding eye contact, even with parents
Not smiling back when someone smiles
Not pointing to show interest (e.g., pointing at a plane in the sky)
Not waving goodbye or using other gestures
Flapping hands, rocking, or spinning objects
Lining up toys instead of playing with them functionally
Not responding to their name
Not showing interest in other children or play
Extreme reactions to sounds, textures, or lights
Not every child who shows one or two of these signs has autism, but if you’re noticing several, it’s important to speak with your pediatrician.
Research shows that early diagnosis and intervention lead to better outcomes for children with autism. The brain develops most rapidly in the first five years of life, making this a critical period for learning language, social skills, and self-regulation.
ABA therapy is most effective when started early. Children who receive intensive ABA therapy before age 4 are more likely to develop stronger communication and social skills, and many can enter mainstream classrooms with fewer supports.
ABA therapy works by reinforcing desired behaviors and reducing those that interfere with learning and daily life. Here’s how it can specifically help young children:
ABA therapy therapists break communication into small, teachable steps. For toddlers who are nonverbal, ABA therapy may start with teaching them to request items using pictures, signs, or simple words.
From waving and eye contact to turn-taking and play, ABA therapy helps toddlers develop age-appropriate social behaviors that create a foundation for friendships and connection.
Many behaviors like tantrums or aggression stem from communication struggles. ABA therapy teaches children more appropriate ways to express their needs, reducing frustration for both child and parent.
ABA therapy can support toilet training, feeding, and other self-help tasks, helping toddlers gain independence.
ABA therapy is customized for each child, but common features include:
Play-based learning to keep young children engaged
1:1 sessions with trained therapists
Parent involvement, including coaching and support
Data collection to track progress and adjust goals
Sessions may be at home, in a clinic, or in preschool settings, and can range from a few hours a week to full-day programs depending on your child’s needs.
If you suspect your child is showing signs of autism, don’t wait. Talk to your pediatrician and ask for a referral for an autism evaluation. In the meantime, you can:
Start a developmental screening (tools like M-CHAT are available online)
Contact a local ABA therapy provider for a consultation
Explore early intervention services in your area (most are free for children under 3)
You are not alone. Early signs of autism can feel overwhelming, but they are also an opportunity to act early and make a meaningful difference.
ABA therapy isn’t just about managing behavior—it’s about unlocking your child’s potential and helping them build a joyful, connected life.
By learning the signs, asking questions, and seeking support, you’re already taking powerful steps forward for your child.