Parents and caregivers who notice particular changes or challenges in a 3-year-old may wonder if these could indicate autism. Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) affects approximately 1 in 59 children. ASD covers a range of conditions that doctors used to believe were different, including autism and Asperger’s syndrome. Behavioral symptoms often develop in early childhood, with research suggesting that parents and caregivers tend to notice some of these behaviors before a child’s first birthday. Despite this, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) report that most autistic children do not receive a diagnosis until after 4 years of age. In this article, we discuss the possible signs and symptoms of autism in 3-year old children.

What is autism? Share on Pinterest Autistic people may have difficulty developing friendships and understanding other people’s feelings. Autism is one of the more common neurodevelopmental disorders. It is characterized by challenges with social interaction, communication, and flexibility in thinking and behavior. Autistic people may have difficulty relating to those around them, developing friendships, and understanding other people’s feelings. They may also have repetitive thoughts and perform repetitive behaviors. Autistic people often have higher rates of co-occurring, or comorbid, conditions than the general population. Some of these conditions include: seizures

digestive disorders

psychiatric issues, such as anxiety or depression According to some research, 70% of autistic children have one co-occurring condition, while 41% have two or more, including attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), oppositional defiant disorder, or social anxiety. There is no “cure” for autism, and many autistic people feel that ASD is an integral part of their identity. Doctors and therapists can help people manage their symptoms and maintain a happy, healthy life.

Signs and symptoms in a 3-year-old Some signs of autism in a 3-year-old might include: Social detachment Autistic children may not play with others. They may: play alone

have no interest in socializing

avoid sharing toys

not understand turn-taking play

not respond to their name

not understand make-believe or “pretend” play Differences in emotional expression Autistic people experience a full range of emotions, but they typically read and express them differently to others. An autistic 3-year-old may: have difficulty discussing or expressing their feelings

have trouble understanding the feelings of others

struggle to be soothed or comforted

make facial expressions that may not match internal feelings

avoid physical contact with others

become rigid when hugged

show no emotion when a parent leaves the room Communication difficulties Autism is characterized by difficulty communicating. At 3 years of age, an autistic child may: demonstrate delays or regression in speech and language skills

speak in a flat or sing-song manner

not speak at all

avoid eye contact

appear expressionless

not answer questions appropriately

repeat the words of others

use words, phrases, or sounds repeatedly, which doctors call echolalia

use the wrong pronouns, for example, “you” instead of “I”

not use gestures, such as pointing or waving

not respond to pointing

not understand age-appropriate humor Behaviors Autistic children often display seemingly unusual or repetitive behaviors. They may: flap their hands repeatedly

spin around

rock back and forth

appear fascinated with a particular toy or activity

have obsessive behaviors

line up toys in an ordered fashion

be hyperactive in certain situations

have a short attention span

insist on specific routines or rituals

display agitation, anger, or frustration when someone disturbs their routine or ritual Other signs Additional potential signs of autism in children include: aggression

impulsivity

self-injuring

intense reactions to sounds, smells, textures, colors, or tastes

temper tantrums

unusual eating habits Not all autistic children show all these signs, and many neurotypical children occasionally demonstrate some of them. For this reason, a professional diagnosis is essential.

Signs of autism as children get older Share on Pinterest Autistic children may have a preference for being alone as they get older. Autistic children may experience more or different challenges with communication, socialization, and behavior as they age. This is partly due to increasing social demands at school and in the community. School-age children and teenagers may display some of the following: a need for routine

a preference for being alone

a lack of friendships

aggression

agitation or frustration when routines are disturbed

anxiety

difficulty making conversation and taking turns in a conversation

heightened or lowered sense of smell, taste, touch, vision, and hearing

obsession with specific topics or activities

problems interpreting nonverbal and social cues

rigidity when following rules in school and sports

unusual posture or movements, such as biting or flicking of the fingers

unusual speech patterns and tone

Autism in girls vs. boys ASD is 4 times more common in boys than in girls. Studies suggest that autistic girls may display different and more subtle symptoms. This may lead to underdiagnosis or misdiagnosis and subsequent difficulties accessing effective treatment. The authors of a study involving more than 800 autistic children reported that girls and boys showed differences in both brain structure and behavior. Girls tended to show less repetitive and restrictive behaviors. Recent research also suggests that autistic girls and autistic boys tell stories differently. Girls may use more “cognitive process” words, such as “think” and “know,” while previous studies suggested that all autistic children use fewer of these words. Other theories about why ASD is considered to be less prevalent in females include: Genetic differences between the sexes mean that females are less likely to inherit autism.

Teachers, parents, and caregivers underreport behaviors that suggest autism in girls.

Girls may be better able to “mask” their social challenges.

Diagnostic tools are based on how symptoms present in males, leading to underdiagnosis in females.

Diagnosis Parents and caregivers who think that a child may be autistic should consult a doctor for a diagnosis or a referral to a specialist. In order to know when to seek help, it is important to be aware of the milestones that a child should reach at each age. The CDC provide a comprehensive list of milestones for 3-year old children. A specialist — such as a developmental pediatrician or a child psychologist — can provide a formal diagnosis. These professionals will observe a child’s behavior and track their development. They will also test the child’s hearing and vision and may perform additional tests to rule out other underlying conditions that could be causing symptoms. For example, a child with hearing problems may also demonstrate social difficulties or not respond when spoken to. A doctor may diagnose a specific level of autism. Each level requires a different type and amount of support. Learn more about levels of autism in this article.

Management Share on Pinterest Communication and behavioral therapies may be helpful for autistic children. Early intervention is key for improving outcomes for autistic children. When they are young, children can learn helpful social, communication, and behavioral skills. There are many options for autistic children, and these vary, depending on the child’s symptoms. The best place to seek information is from the child’s doctor. The local school district should also be able to provide information about nearby resources, including early intervention programs. Therapies and other forms of support that may be helpful for autistic children include: behavioral therapies

communication skills training

educational programs

family therapy and parent education

occupational therapy

physical therapy

psychological interventions

speech therapy

medications

lifestyle changes, such as creating and sticking to a particular routine It is essential to manage any other conditions that occur in autistic children, teenagers, and adults. These can include: ADHD

depression

anxiety

seizures