From baby to teenager: signals per age
Autism looks different in a baby than in a teenager. Below are the signals that are mentioned most often, per phase of life.
What often occurs together
Not every characteristic has to be correct, but together they form a recognizable picture.
👶 Baby and toddler (0 to 3 years)
Not waving or greeting, making little eye contact, extremely crying or being very quiet, highly hypersensitive to sound.
📗 Relapse in development
Previously acquired language or social skills that disappear at some point is a signal that should always be taken seriously.
🏫 Primary school age
Difficulty with transitions and change, strong need for routine, remarkably detailed interests.
🚩 Overstimulation
Crying fits, aggression or misunderstood behavior that often arise from too many stimuli and too little structure.
👥 Puberty: compensation disappears
Behavior that previously seemed under control worsens under social pressure and changing expectations in secondary education.
⚠️ Signs that require immediate attention
Persistent sadness or anxiety in a teenager may indicate an underlying, not yet recognised autism.
Where to go with concerns
Consultation agency
The first place for concerns about young children, can refer for further research.
Integrated Early Care
Free, nationally available collaboration of organizations that helps parents with developmental concerns, in every region.
GP or youth doctor
Can refer to specialized diagnostics, also in older children and teenagers.
🏎 Need immediate help?
In case of immediate danger to yourself or someone else: call 112. Are you in distress or are you thinking about suicide? You can call or chat with 113 Suicide Prevention day and night via 0800-0113. Zorgfuik is not a crisis service and cannot solve acute requests for help, but we think it is important that you know where you can go.