Everything You Need to Know About Symptoms and Diagnosis of Autism in a 3-Year-Old

Understanding Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) in Young Children

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) manifests differently in every child. It is characterised by challenges in social interaction, communication delays, and repetitive behaviours. The severity of these symptoms varies, leading to different levels of support needs. Identifying the signs of autism in 3 year old children allows for early intervention and tailored support strategies.

Prevalence and Causes of ASD in Early Childhood

Autism spectrum disorders in early childhood are caused by a complex combination of genetic, environmental and neurological factors. Research has shown that genetic predisposition is the primary risk factor, although some genetic mutations increase the risk of developing ASD. Environmental factors, such as prenatal exposure to toxins or infections, may contribute to ASD. In addition, differences in brain structure and function, particularly in areas related to social communication and behaviour, have been identified as a defining feature of ASD.

Early Signs and Symptoms of Autism in 3-Year-Olds

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) manifests through a range of social, communication, and behavioural differences. Identifying early signs of autism in 3 year old children can help parents and caregivers seek timely intervention for better developmental outcomes. - (The above intro to be replaced with this one)

Common Symptoms

• Difficulty making eye contact
• Limited or no response to name
• Repetitive hand-flapping or rocking
• Delayed speech and language skills
• Sensory sensitivities (e.g., aversion to certain sounds or textures)

Infographic Idea: Visual representation of early autism symptoms.

Communication Challenges

• Delayed or absent speech development
• Difficulty understanding gestures or tone
• Echolalia (repeating words or phrases)

Repetitive Behaviours and Restricted Interests

• Lining up toys in a particular order
• Extreme attachment to routines
• Obsession with specific topics or objects

Sensory Sensitivities

• Overreaction to bright lights or loud noises
• Preference for certain textures or fabrics
• Unusual pain tolerance

Differences in Speech

• Unusual tone or pitch
• Preferring non-verbal communication methods

Unusual Movements

• Hand-flapping, spinning, or tiptoeing
• Rigid body postures

Other Symptoms

• Delays in cognitive or motor skills development
• Difficulty with changes in routine or transitions
• Sleep disturbances or difficulties with self-soothing

Differences in Autism Signs Between Girls vs. Boys

Girls with ASD often show more subtle signs, sometimes masking their symptoms by copying their peers. Boys, on the other hand, tend to display more obvious behaviours. Since autism can look different in boys and girls, recognising the signs of an autistic child can be challenging, but early diagnosis is important.

Levels of Autism Spectrum Disorder (DSM-5)

The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th Edition (DSM-5) categorises autism into three levels of severity as follows:

3 Levels of Support

Level 1: Requiring Support

• Difficulty with conversations
• Trouble with tone of voice & nuances
• Executive function challenges
• Support needed in certain situations

Level 2: Requiring Substantial Support

• Noticeable communication difficulties
• Trouble with social cues
• Routine & transition challenges
• Substantial support needed daily

Level 3: Requiring Very Substantial Support

• Severe communication difficulties
• Limited social cue understanding
• Significant routine & transition challenges
• Full-time support needed daily

Autism Level 1

• Mild social challenges

• Difficulty adapting to changes

Autism Level 2

• Noticeable verbal and non-verbal difficulties
• Repetitive behaviours affecting daily life

Autism Level 3

• Severe communication impairments
• Highly restrictive behaviours

Impact of Autism Spectrum Disorder in 3-Year-Olds

The influence of autism spectrum disorder in 3-year-olds is discussed below.

Effects on Social Interactions

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) has a huge impact on a child's ability to interact socially in typical ways. By the time a child is three years old, he or she may face the following issues:

• Avoidance Of Eye Contact: Many children with ASD tend to avoid eye contact or have difficulty maintaining it, which can affect bonding and communication.

• Low Interest in Playing with Other Children: They tend to play alone or have difficulty understanding the rules of shared play.

• Difficulty Understanding Emotions: Children with ASD often have difficulty interpreting facial expressions, tone of voice or body language, making it difficult for them to understand other people's emotions.

• Delayed Response to Social Cues: They may not respond when their name is called or have difficulty participating in conversations.

• Difficulty With Pretend Play: Participation in fantasy or role play does not come naturally.

Impact on Family Dynamics

Raising a child with ASD often brings many changes to family life. The effects can be:

• More Stress for Parents and Carers: Therapy plans, behavioural issues and advocating for the right services become a challenge. Families may need specialist support and therapies such as speech therapy, behavioural interventions and occupational therapy to address developmental delays.

• Adjustments To Daily Routines: Parents and caregivers often modify home routines to accommodate the child’s sensory needs, communication barriers and behavioural patterns.

• Emotional Stress For Siblings: The siblings of children with ASD may feel ignored or not understand their brother or sister's odd behaviours.

• Financial costs: The therapies, specialised schooling and associated medical costs can be very expensive.

Long-Term Challenges Without Intervention

If ASD is not diagnosed and treated early, children with autism symptoms in 3 year old can face increasing difficulties throughout their lives. Some of these long-term challenges include:

• Academic Difficulties: If left untreated, a child may have difficulty with classroom expectations, communicating with peers, and adjusting to a structured environment.

• Delayed Language and Social Skills: A lack of therapy means limited vocabulary, difficulty forming sentences and difficulty holding conversations.

• Increased Dependence on Carers: They may need further support with daily living activities, social relationships and emotional management.

• Behavioural Problems: Untreated sensory sensitivities and repetitive behaviours are likely to cause more problems in social settings.

• Limited Future Independence: Late intervention may hinder the long-term acquisition of skills, affecting independence in adulthood.

Diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder in 3-Year-Olds

Early diagnosis allows for timely intervention, significantly improving outcomes. Healthcare providers use a combination of screening tools, parent interviews, and clinical observations to diagnose ASD. Recognising signs of autistic child at age 3 can lead to a quicker diagnosis and improved support strategies.

Diagnostic Criteria for ASD

The following criteria are used by professionals to diagnose ASD:

• Persistent deficits in social communication and interaction – Includes difficulty in forming relationships, poor nonverbal communication skills, and lack of shared interests.

• Restricted, repetitive behaviours and interests – Includes repetitive movements, strict adherence to routines, and hyper- or hyposensitivity to sensory input.

• Symptoms present from early childhood – Must be evident from an early age, though they may become more noticeable as social demands increase.

Autism Questionnaire

The below-mentioned questionnaire is designed to help you identify toddlers who may be at risk for autism spectrum disorder (ASD).

• Does your child smile or laugh when playing or engaging with you?
• Does your child initiate or respond to hugs, kisses or other gestures of affection?
• Does your child point or wave to communicate?
• Does your child look at you when called?
• Does your child play with toys in a repetitive or unusual way, e.g. by lining up blocks or spinning wheels?
• Does your child find it difficult to cope with changes in routine or transitions, e.g. leaving the park or stopping a favourite activity?
• Does your child have developmental delays, such as delayed sitting, crawling or walking?

Specialists Who Can Diagnose Children with ASD

• Paediatricians – Identify the early signs of ASD and refer families to specialists.

• Child Psychologists – Will conduct in-depth behavioural assessments and then, provide therapy recommendations.

• Developmental Specialists – Experts in evaluating and diagnosing neurodevelopmental disorders, including ASD.

Diagnostic Tools for Parents

• M-CHAT (Modified Checklist for Autism in Toddlers): A parent-reported questionnaire used for early screening.

• ADOS (Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule): A structured assessment conducted by professionals.

• STAT (Screening Tool for Autism in Toddlers & Young Children): A play-based screening method used by healthcare providers.

Other Diagnostic Tools and Assessments

• Genetic testing – Identifies genetic markers linked to ASD.

• Neurological evaluations – Checks brain activity and structure for abnormalities.

• Speech and language assessments – Evaluates communication delays and difficulties.

• Behavioural Observation – Clinicians analyse a child’s behaviour and interaction in different environments.

Importance of Early Diagnosis and Intervention for Autism in 3-Year-Olds

The early diagnosis of autism will help the children develop the necessary skills to build a quality life. Some of the key benefits and recognising early developmental signs are listed below.

Benefits of Early Intervention

• Improves language and communication skills – Early speech therapy enhances verbal and nonverbal communication.

• Enhances social interactions – Structured interventions help children learn appropriate social behaviours.

• Reduces repetitive behaviours – Therapies can provide alternative coping mechanisms and reduce rigid behaviours.

• Increases adaptability to change – Early intervention helps children adjust to new environments and situations.

Recognising Early Developmental Signs

Toddlerhood (1-3 years)

• No single words by 16 months
• No two-word phrases by 24 months
• No response to simple verbal commands by 24 months
• No imitation of actions or words by 24 months
• No interest in interactive play by 24 months

Red Flags for Autism

• No eye contact or social interaction
• No response to name or verbal commands
• No gesturing or pointing
• No imitation of actions or words
• Repetitive behaviours or movements

Treatment Options for Autism Spectrum Disorder in a 3-Year-Old

The treatment options available for ASD for 3-year-old children are listed below.

Behavioural Therapy

• Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA) – Encourages positive behaviours through reinforcement strategies.

• Social skills training – Teaches children how to interact with peers and adults effectively.

Speech and Language Therapy

• Enhances communication abilities – Helps children develop verbal and nonverbal skills.

• Helps with understanding and expressing emotions – Encourages better emotional recognition and response.

Occupational Therapy

• Develops fine motor skills – Improves hand-eye coordination and muscle control.

• Assists with sensory processing issues – Helps children cope with sensitivity to sound, touch, or movement.

Play-Based and Social Skills Interventions

• Encourages interaction through structured play – Supports social development through engaging activities.

• Builds emotional regulation skills – Helps children manage frustration and anxiety.

Parent Training and Support Programs

• Educates parents on effective strategies – Teaches techniques for managing behaviours at home.

• Provides emotional and practical support – Connects families with support groups and resources.

Medical Management for Co-occurring Conditions

Medication may be used for anxiety, ADHD, or sleep disturbances – Helps manage associated challenges while behavioural therapy remains the primary treatment.

Challenges Faced by Families of 3-Year-Olds with Autism

Parenting a 3-year-old with autism is rewarding but also challenging. Some common challenges families face includes the following:

Emotional Challenges

• Feeling overwhelmed and stressed
• Dealing with emotions and behaviours
• Dealing with the diagnosis and uncertainty

Practical Challenges

• Finding and accessing early intervention services
• Navigating the health and education system
• Coping with everyday routines and behaviours

Social Challenges

• Dealing with social stigmatisation and isolation
• Finding a supportive community and networks
• Balancing family and social relationships

When to Seek Professional Help for Autism Spectrum Disorder in 3-Year-Olds

If a child exhibits multiple autism symptoms in 3 year old, consulting a specialist as early as possible ensures better outcomes. Early assessment and intervention significantly improve a child's ability to develop essential life skills.

Cadabam’s Child Development Centre: Your Partner in Early Autism Intervention of Your 3 Year Old

Cadabam’s offers expert-led early intervention programs to help children with ASD develop essential skills for independent living. With a multidisciplinary approach, our team of specialists provides comprehensive support to ensure the best possible developmental outcomes for children diagnosed with ASD.

If you're seeking expert support for your child's mental health or developmental challenges, Cadabam's Child Development Centre (CDC) is here to assist. Our multidisciplinary team of specialists is dedicated to nurturing every child's unique potential in a safe, stimulating, and inclusive environment. We offer comprehensive services, including screening, assessment, diagnosis, therapy, and intervention, to address various developmental and behavioural concerns.

Contact us today at +91 95355 85588 to learn how we can support your child's journey toward a healthier and happier life.