Nurture

Autism

All ages · 6 min read

Autism is a lifelong difference in how a person communicates, relates to others and experiences the world. It is called a spectrum because it looks very different from one child to the next: some children talk a lot and some use few or no words; some need a lot of support and some need a little.

Autism is not caused by parenting, by screens or by vaccines. Children are born autistic; the signs usually become clearer in the first few years.

What parents often notice

  • Not answering to their name by around the first birthday, even though hearing is fine.
  • Few gestures such as pointing, waving or showing you things; less back-and-forth smiling or sharing.
  • Talking late, losing words they used to say, or repeating phrases from videos or other people.
  • Playing in particular ways, lining up toys, spinning wheels, watching things move, and finding it hard to be interrupted.
  • Strong reactions to sounds, textures, lights or food, or seeming not to notice pain or cold.
  • Big distress at small changes in routine, routes or rules.
  • Many children are also affectionate, funny and deeply interested in the things they love. Both are true.

What helps at home

  • Follow their lead in play. Join what they are already doing and add one small new thing.
  • Use fewer words and more showing: point, use gestures, pictures and a visual timetable for the day.
  • Keep routines predictable and warn before changes (“Two more minutes, then bath”).
  • Notice what their senses need, a quiet corner, headphones, a firm hug, time to move, and plan for it.
  • Celebrate every way they communicate, including gestures, pictures and devices. They do not stop speech from coming; they often help it.

Myths and facts

  • MythTwo languages at home confuse children and cause autism or late talking.

    FactBilingual homes do not cause autism or delay. Speak the language you are most comfortable in.

  • MythAutism is caused by too much TV or by cold parenting.

    FactNeither causes autism. Autism is a difference in how the brain develops.

  • MythAutistic children don’t feel love or want friends.

    FactThey love and connect deeply, sometimes in ways that look different from what we expect.

When to talk to a professional

  • No babbling or pointing by 12 months, no single words by 16 months, or no two-word phrases by 24 months.
  • Any loss of words or social skills your child used to have, at any age.
  • You, a teacher or a relative keep having the feeling that something is different. That feeling is worth checking.

Who can help

  • Developmental paediatrician
  • Child psychologist
  • Speech and language therapist
  • Occupational therapist

Sources

Last updated 28 September 2026 · General information, not medical advice. It is not a diagnosis or a substitute for a qualified professional.