Wondering whether your 18-month-old is hitting the right developmental milestones, or if certain behaviors might be early signs of autism?
Maybe your child doesn’t respond to their name as often as you’d expect. Or maybe you’re noticing differences in how they play, communicate, or interact with others. If you’re asking these kinds of questions, you’re not alone, and you’re already doing something important by paying attention.
This guide was written because there are parents like you out there, caring, inquiring, and eager to know more about what behaviors might mean and when to seek more help.
Why 18 Months Matter for Autism Detection
At roughly a year and a half, most children will start pointing to things they want, communicating a few words, and engaging more with the world around them. However, every child doesn’t develop the same way, which is completely normal.
Nevertheless, this phase is significant since it is during this period that signs of autism in an 18-month-old may become apparent. These developmental milestones are a big reason why pediatricians test for autism at 18 months. In case there is a delay or deviation, there is hope with early intervention.
Evaluating your child’s development is not about jumping to conclusions, but about recognizing what could be necessary for growth in your child.
18-Month Autism Self-Screening Quiz for Parents
Testing the signs of autism in an 18-month-old is based on the M-CHAT-R, or the Modified Checklist for Autism in Toddlers, which is a common screening tool for spotting children who may need further evaluation.
For each question that follows, respond Yes, No, or Not Sure to indicate the usual patterns of your child’s behavior over the past month.
Early Social & Communication Behaviors
- Does your child respond to his or her name?
- Does your child smile back at you when you smile at them?
- Do they make eye contact during interaction (feeding, playtime, etc.)?
- Does your child use a point to indicate interest (such as an airplane or a dog)?
- Do they bring you things to share with you, not for your assistance, but to show you something?
- Does your child try to get your attention with something they enjoy (like clapping when music starts)?
- Do they imitate your facial expressions, sounds, or actions (like waving or clapping)?
Language & Gestures
- Does your child use gestures such as pointing, waving, or reaching to communicate?
- Is your child saying a few single words (like “mama,” “ball,” “up”) consistently?
- Does your child respond when you ask a simple question (like “Where’s your cup?”)?
Play & Behavior
- Does your child use pretend play (for example, feeding a stuffed animal or talking on a pretend phone)?
- Can they cope with small variations in daily routine without becoming extremely distressed?
- Does your child watch what you are pointing at (joint attention)?
- Are they displaying a set of emotions (happy, frustrated, scared) via facial expressions or body language?
How to Reflect on Your Answers
Your answers to these questions are an informal evaluation and the first step towards understanding which path to take next.
If you have responded “No” or “Not Sure” for several questions, perhaps those concerning social interactions, gestures, and communications, there might be a reason to discuss your concerns with your pediatrician.
You can also request a formal developmental screening or evaluation. Tools like the M-CHAT-R/F are designed to guide this process and refer families for further assessment if needed.
Why Detecting Early Signs of Autism in an 18-Month-Old Makes a Difference
Early intervention may help your child develop skills that are difficult to learn at a later stage. It can be related to communication, play, and interaction, and it’s best achieved at an early age.
Children don’t “grow out of” autism, but they can grow into confident communicators and curious learners with proper support.
If your child doesn’t receive an autism diagnosis, you still might benefit from insight into child development and how to help your child.
How Cultivate Behavioral Health & Education Can Help
At Cultivate, we understand the emotional and overwhelming nature of these questions. We are here to walk you through the process:
- Providing information on developmental screenings and what to expect
- Connecting you with trusted referrals for skilled diagnostic specialists
- Supporting children with autism through ABA therapy
- Caregiver and parent training to facilitate growth at home
We’re not only here to answer questions, but to partner with you on finding the path ahead.
You’re Already Doing Something Important
By looking out for signs of autism in your 18-month-old, you’re advocating for your child in the best way possible. You’re noticing, observing, and seeking understanding.
If something does not seem right, trust your instincts. You don’t have all the answers right now, but you do deserve the help you need to find them.
Call us at Cultivate Behavioral Health & Education today if you would like to discuss your child’s development, assistance with screening, or to learn more about how we can help families with Autism. We’re here when you’re ready.
