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What is Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)?

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a developmental disorder that affects how people communicate and interact with the world. As its name implies, autism covers an entire spectrum of abilities and challenges.

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Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is diagnosed through a child’s developmental history and behavior, as there is no medical test to confirm it. While signs can appear as early as 18 months and reliable diagnoses can be made by age 2, many children are identified later. Early diagnosis is critical to ensure children receive the support they need to reach their full potential. Screening tools can help identify concerns, but a formal evaluation by a specialist provides a deeper understanding of a child’s strengths and needs and determines if early intervention services are appropriate.

Signs & Symptoms of Autism

Avoids or does not keep eye contact
Does not respond to name
Does not show facial expressions
Does not point to show you something interesting by 18 months of age
Does not notice when others are hurt or upset by 24 months of age
Does not notice other children and join them in play by 36 months of age
Does not engage in pretend play

Lines up toys or other objects and gets upset when order is changed
Repeats words or phrases over and over (called echolalia)
Plays with toys the same way every time
Gets upset by minor changes
Has obsessive interests
Must follow certain routines
Engages in repetitive behaviors
Has unusual reactions to the way things sound, smell, taste, look, or feel

Delayed language skills
Delayed movement skills
Delayed cognitive or learning skills
Hyperactive, impulsive, and/or inattentive behavior
Epilepsy or seizure disorder

Unusual eating and sleeping habits
Gastrointestinal issues (for example, constipation)
Unusual mood or emotional reactions
Anxiety, stress, or excessive worry
Lack of fear or more fear than expected

Early Intervention

At ASN, we serve children ages 2–14, and the progress we see—especially in our youngest clients—is both inspiring and life-changing. While autism can be detected as early as 18 months, the average diagnosis occurs closer to age 4, leaving critical developmental time lost and often creating uncertainty for families.

Through early, individualized ABA therapy, we help bridge that gap—giving children the tools to communicate, grow, and thrive. There is nothing more powerful than seeing a child speak their first words and hearing “Mommy” for the first time—moments that make all the difference for families and remind us why we do this work.

Start the Path to Early Autism Support

At Autism Support Now (ASN), we provide high-quality ABA therapy for children ages 2–14, with a focus on early intervention for ages 18 months to 5—when it matters most. Although autism can be diagnosed early, many children aren’t identified until age 4, missing critical developmental time.

Our experienced team delivers compassionate, evidence-based care with strong outcomes, and we accept most major insurance plans. Referring a patient is simple—and ensures they receive the support they need to thrive.