Signs of Autism in a 16 Month Old
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Response
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The most common indication of autism is when toddlers don't respond to their name. This may indicate that the child has no comprehension of their name.
Games
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Healthy 16-month-olds love to play the game, "Where is mommy/daddy?" The child will eagerly look around for their beloved parent. Children with autism generally do not engage in this game, failing to seek out the "lost" parent.
Physical Signs
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Autistic 16-month-olds may show signs of being unusually clumsy when they walk, or may walk on their toes. They may also sit and rock back and forth for long periods of time.
Fixation
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Autistic 16-month-olds often become fixated on one toy or type of toy. They may spend hours taking all of their cars and lining them up in a perfect, meticulous row. If someone accidentally disturbs their perfect line, they have a tendency to become extremely agitated or upset.
Emotions
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Autistic 16-month-olds often stiffen or pull away when they are hugged or cuddled. Autistic children not understand how to receive or show emotion.
Communication
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Rather than speaking, an autistic child may make a humming sound for long periods of time. In addition, autistic children often don't make hand gestures, such as waving goodbye or pointing to an item they want.
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