What Are the Early Signs of Autism in a 2-Month-Old?*

Babies with early signs of autism may overreact or underreact to sensory stimuli.

Can autism be detected in a 2-month-old baby? While autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is typically diagnosed later, some subtle signs may emerge early. Understanding these can help parents monitor their child’s development more closely.

1. Limited Eye Contact

   
   

By 2 months, most babies enjoy looking into their parents' eyes, showing engagement and recognition. This could indicate developmental differences if your baby avoids eye contact or rarely looks at your face during feeding or playtime.

2. Lack of Social Smiles

   
   

At this age, babies often smile back when someone smiles at them. These “social smiles” are a key part of bonding. If your baby isn’t smiling in response to you or others, it might be worth observing more closely.

3. Minimal Response to Sounds or Voices

   
   

Does your baby react to your voice or turn toward sounds? A reduced response to auditory stimuli could signal sensory differences or challenges in early social engagement.

4. Unusual Reactions to Sensory Stimuli

   
   

Some babies show heightened sensitivity to lights, textures, or sounds, while others seem indifferent to sensory input like touch or being held. These reactions may hint at sensory processing differences.

5. Reduced Movement or Activity Levels

   
   

While some babies are naturally quieter, a significant lack of movement or interaction with their surroundings might signal developmental delays.

What Should You Do?

If you notice these signs, don’t panic. Every baby develops at their own pace, and many factors influence behavior at this age. However, sharing your observations with your pediatrician is always a good idea. Early monitoring doesn’t mean a diagnosis but helps ensure your baby gets the right support if needed.

Final Thoughts

At 2 months, your baby is still discovering the world. Stay attuned to their unique behaviors and cherish every milestone, big or small.

Caring for a child with autism can feel overwhelming for parents. Save time and make the journey easier by downloading the One Autism Health app for FREE.

*results may vary, please consult a professional.