Sometimes parents reach that moment when they look at their child and sense things are different. Maybe the child doesn’t turn when their name’s called, or doesn’t seem to play the same way other toddlers do. Maybe it’s hard to describe — just a persistent feeling that something isn’t lining up.
If any of this sounds like where you are, that feeling matters. It often leads families to ask: How early could we actually tell? When is the best moment to look at behaviors closely and get support if needed?
Watching for Early Signs
Children develop differently, absolutely. Some talk early, some walk early, some show interest in everyone around them, some prefer alone time. But there are subtle signs that often appear in children younger than two years old.
These might include:
- Not making gestures like pointing or waving
- Less eye contact during play or caregiving
- Not responding to name by around one year
- Delayed speech: not using single words by around 16 months or two‑word phrases by the time they’re about two
- Repetitive movements — flapping fingers, spinning toys
- Overreacting or underreacting to sensory stimulus (sounds, textures, lights)
- Preferring routines, and getting upset if those routines change
Some children meet early speech or movement milestones and later seem to “lose” some skills. Parents often call this regression. It typically shows up somewhere between 18 and 30 months.
Why Getting a Clear Picture Early Helps
Understanding something earlier doesn’t mean rushing into labels. It means giving children tools, support, and environments that help them thrive. It means helping parents and caregivers respond in ways that reduce frustration and build connections.
Early awareness can lead to:
- support systems like speech, occupational or behavioral therapy starting sooner
- helping a child feel understood, which can ease anxiety for both child and family
- better social skill building while the brain is very flexible
- reducing the chances of secondary issues (like anxiety or behavior struggles) because of misunderstanding
Even without a diagnosis, families often feel more empowered once they understand what’s going on.
What Happens at an Autism Assessment with ACP Consultants
When you come to us, the process is guided by your child, your family, and what you’ve noticed. We don’t force anything. We move with respect for your child’s pace.
Here’s roughly how it works:
- First we talk. I’ll ask what you’ve seen. What concerns you. What strengths your child shows. What daily life is like at home.
- Then we observe. Sometimes in play, sometimes in structured tasks. We may use tools and checklists, compare what’s typical for a child’s age, see how your child engages socially and reacts to sound, touch, and change.
- We might include specialized tools (depending on age and need)—observations, developmental tests, maybe brain‑map style tools, if appropriate—anything that helps us see patterns, not just behaviors.
- After that, we meet to share what we found. I’ll show you what we saw in child‑friendly ways. Answer questions. Talk about what parts are strong, what parts seem more challenging, and what supports might help.
- Finally, if a diagnosis or label fits, I’ll help you sketch a plan. Maybe therapy, maybe coaching, maybe school support. If it doesn’t, the outcome still brings understanding and next steps.
Trusting Your Sense, Even When It Feels Hard
It’s difficult when people say you’re overreacting, or “Wait and see.” But you know your child. If you’re worried, you’re not alone—and you’re not wrong for listening to your instincts.
An evaluation doesn’t mean something is wrong forever. It means you are seeking clarity. It means you are giving your child the chance to grow with more understanding around them. Even if there’s no full diagnosis, the awareness itself can bring relief.
Thinking About Getting Evaluated?
If you’ve noticed any of the signs above, or even if you just can’t quite explain what you’re seeing, getting evaluated is a gentle next step. You don’t have to commit to anything long term. Just asking questions, observing, and seeing what support might help can make a difference.
Here at ACP Consultants, we help with autism and ADHD assessments for young children. We’re here if you want to talk about what you’ve noticed, decide whether an assessment might help, or even just to get more information—no pressure, always compassion.
ACP Consultants | Pediatric Autism & ADHD Assessments
Helping families in Park Ridge and the surrounding area get clarity, support, and understanding.
