Parents usually notice the first signs of autism before the age of three. With education and practice, some specialists have even been able to identify the warning signs in children under the age of one. Often, however, 15 to 18 months is the time parents first notice loss of skills or delays in development. If you do not see the following behaviors in your child, mention it to your physician right away.
At 15 Months, Your Child Should:
- Exchange with you many back-and-forth smiles, sounds, and gestures in a row.
- Use pointing or other “showing” gestures to draw attention to something of interest.
- Use different sounds to get needs met and draw attention to something of interest.
- Use and understand at least three words, such as “mama,” “dada,” “bottle,” or “bye-bye.”
In addition, you should report to your doctor any loss of language or social skills at any age.
Source: First Signs, ”Key Social, Emotional, and Communication Milestones for Your Baby’s Healthy Development” by Stanley I. Greenspan, M.D., Barry M. Prizant, Ph.D., CCC-SLP, Amy Wetherby, Ph.D., CCC-SLP