Look for persistent differences in social communication and interaction
Notice difficulty with back-and-forth conversation
Notice limited or unusual eye contact
Notice difficulty reading facial expressions, tone, or body language
Notice preference for routines and distress with changes
Notice intense, focused interests
Notice repetitive movements, speech, or behaviors
Notice strong sensitivity or low sensitivity to sounds, lights, textures, smells, or touch
Notice unusual responses to sensory input
Notice difficulty with social cues, sarcasm, or implied meanings
Notice a preference for solitary activities or parallel play
Notice challenges with making or keeping friendships
Notice highly literal interpretation of language
Notice strong need for predictability or sameness
Notice signs present from early childhood
Notice that traits affect daily life in more than one setting
Consider that only a qualified professional can diagnose autism