03/04/2026
Not all signs are obvious. Some are quiet, subtle and easy to miss when you’re running on little sleep and just trying to get through the day.
As parents, we’re constantly told “every child develops at their own pace”, and that’s true. But it’s also okay to notice when something feels different.
Autism can present in many ways, especially in young children, and early signs aren’t always obvious. Some things to gently look out for include:
Not responding to their name
Limited or no eye contact
Not smiling back when you smile at them
Becoming very upset by certain sounds, smells or textures
Repetitive movements like hand flapping, rocking or finger flicking
Delayed speech or talking less than other children their age
Less interest in pretend play
Repeating the same words or phrases
Seeing one or even a few of these signs doesn’t automatically mean a child is autistic, but noticing patterns over time is important.
Trust your instincts. You know your child better than anyone.
If you do have concerns, you’re never wasting anyone’s time by asking for advice. Speaking to your health visitor, GP or special educational needs (SENCO) staff at your child's school can help you get reassurance or the right support early on.
At Mini First Aid, we’re here to give you confidence, not just in emergencies, but in understanding your child and knowing when to seek help.
You’re doing an amazing job
