Children who show consistent eye contact, respond to their name, and enjoy back-and-forth play are less likely to be autistic.

What Research Shows

According to the CDC, most autistic children show signs before age 2. Signs that may not point to autism include:

  • Responding to social cues like smiling or waving.

  • Showing interest in others’ emotions.

  • Using age-appropriate verbal and nonverbal communication.

  • Engaging in pretend play by 18 to 24 months.

A 2020 study from NIH also found that toddlers not on the autism spectrum tend to share attention naturally, like pointing at objects to show interest.

 

Conclusion

So, how do you know if your child is not autistic? You don’t have to guess. A professional evaluation gives clear answers. At Move Up ABA, many parents say they first noticed “something felt off” because their child didn’t make eye contact or lost language. But in some cases, kids just develop at different paces and don’t meet autism criteria. Call Move Up ABA today to schedule a developmental screening. It’s quick, judgment-free, and gives you peace of mind.

FAQs

Q: How do you know if your child is not autistic?
A: Signs include responding to social cues, making eye contact, and using age-appropriate communication.

Q: Can a child show some delays and not be autistic?
A: Yes. Developmental delays can exist without an autism diagnosis.

Q: When should I seek an autism evaluation?
A: If you notice communication, social, or behavior differences by age 2, it’s best to consult a specialist.

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