Parenting a 2-year-old is full of surprises: new words, big emotions, endless curiosity and fun. But if you’ve noticed behaviors that feel different, such as missed milestones or unusual reactions to sound or touch, it’s natural to wonder whether something more might be going on.

Many parents start searching for the signs of high-functioning autism in toddlers (around age 2), unsure what’s typical and what might warrant extra support. Every child develops at their own pace, but early understanding can make a big difference.

Recognizing potential signs and knowing when to ask for guidance can help your child get the right support to thrive.

In this guide, we break down:

• What high functioning autism in toddlers means

• The signs and symptoms to look for

• The role of early intervention and treatment in long-term outcomes

• How to get started with pediatric therapies

Your concerns are valid and understandable, as 1 in 31 children in the U.S. has autism, with boys being nearly four times as likely as girls to be diagnosed, research shows. Autism can be diagnosed by age 2, but the average age isn’t until 5 years old, and the first interventions happen on average at age 7. Experts will share, the earlier parents and providers notice and have an accurate diagnosis, the better the outcomes.

What does high-functioning autism mean?

Autism is a condition that involves challenges with social skills, communication, and sometimes repetitive or restrictive behaviors or interests. Some people with autism also have secondary conditions with physical or mental health, such as anxiety or depression, gastrointestinal issues, or sleep problems, research says. There isn’t a single clear cause, but scientists believe both genetics and environment play a role. 

“High-functioning” autism is not an official condition, but a way that people sometimes refer to children who seem to have fewer or less severe symptoms or are able to go about daily life without as much disruption. However, the official classification for the types of autism, sometimes referred to as a spectrum, is classified into three categories by the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) from the American Psychiatric Association. “High functioning” individuals are often those with level 1 autism. These include:

In practical terms, a child with Level 1 autism might need extra help with social interactions or handling changes in routine, while children at Levels 2 and 3 may need more consistent, hands-on support.

What are signs of autism in babies and toddlers (age 2)?

The first signs of high-functioning autism in babies and toddlers can be very obvious, or easy to miss, depending on the severity. 

“Early signs encompass social and language developmental delays,” says Dr. Karen Ann Klawitter, a pediatrician in Pensacola, Fla., explaining typical ones that come first include:

• Little or no eye contact

• Delayed language skills

• Lack of response when called by name

• Lacks facial expressions (i.e. happy or sad)

• Lacks social interest /play with other children (often prefers objects vs people)

• Does not imitate others

• Often have repetitive behaviors and prefer established routines

• Often very upset with minor changes in the course of their day

• Sensory issues toward certain sounds, textures, or lights

“Single, isolated observations by themselves do not necessarily warrant further evaluation; however, if persistent and/or interferes with activities of daily living, then an evaluation should be sought,” she says. “Some of these observations may be seen during infancy but are more often noticed by age two to three years of age.”

Some behaviors are typical of both toddlerhood and autism, especially with high-functioning autism or level 1 autism, so they aren’t diagnosed until later, when toddlerhood has passed. 

“I see children who are later given autism spectrum diagnoses having persistent behaviors that are reminiscent of toddlerhood: being quite selective with the foods they will accept, having a difficult time with transitions, and ‘stimming' or doing repetitive behaviors that give them a sense of gratification,” says Dr. Chrissie Ott, a pediatrician in Portland, Ore.

What experts recommend watching for

Motor skills and sensory concerns

Occupational therapists, or OTs, work frequently with autistic children, such as Angela Seal, director of occupational therapy at School-Based Behavior Consultation, providing Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) in New Palestine, Ind. 

She says parents might notice a child:

• Prefers to only use one hand to play with toys, demonstrating difficulty with coordinating hands together

• Prefers larger toys so that a gross grasp can be utilized, or is unable to manipulate smaller objects or open containers

• Accepts a low variety of foods, or used to eat well, then started refusing foods until only a handful of acceptable foods are left

• Exhibits poor use of utensils or a preference for not utilizing them at all

• Hates to be messy and becomes upset 

Though some of this is normal for toddlers, persistent instances or those that interfere with daily life should be addressed.

Speech and communication issues 

Toddler language is full of made-up words, babbling nonsense, and other nontraditional language patterns. But, speech language pathologists know what to look for in children who have high-functioning autism as a toddler, and recommend watching those communication patterns they do exhibit.

“These can include delayed or limited speech, unusual tone or rhythm, repetitive phrases or echolalia, and difficulty with back-and-forth communication or gestures like pointing and waving,” says Ravyn Reid, a Speech Language Pathologist from Los Angeles.

Reid adds that for autistic toddlers and children, communication isn’t just about speaking — it has a direct tie to emotional regulation and even confidence. 

If several of these signs feel familiar, it doesn’t always mean your child is autistic, but it’s worth bringing up with your pediatrician.

When to get evaluated for high-functioning autism in toddlers age 2 

When to seek treatment

If you are noticing symptoms aren’t isolated, but are happening over time, talk to your doctor. Your pediatrician will also be screening for these symptoms regularly, so attending wellness check ups on time and speaking openly about your child’s behavior and communication abilities helps.

Why early intervention matters

Don’t wait to ask your pediatrician any questions you have about your child’s behavior, as Klawitter says early intervention can absolutely lessen the severity. “Initiating treatment in the first 2 years of life is critical to capitalize on the young brain's development and adaptability to change and improve,” she says. 

“Early intervention has proven to be sustained over time and improves long-term outcomes in these children. Early therapies foster emotional, social, communication, and essential motor skills to improve physical growth and play, and make the child less frustrated among his peers. In the right learning environment, children will learn skills to navigate the world around them, specific to that child,” Klawitter adds.

What early therapy might look like

Starting treatment  with occupational therapists, speech therapists, and sometimes physical therapists can even mean fewer problems later in life. Your therapist will make a detailed plan with you, and work in communication with your pediatrician, to ensure the best possible outcome.

While concerning symptoms or an autism diagnosis for high functioning autistic toddlers can feel overwhelming at first, and the amount of information daunting, Klawitter wants parents to remember one thing: “Your child is still your child, and every child has their own strengths and weaknesses. Embrace the journey, redefine your expectations, and value your child for who they are.”

How to get started with pediatric therapy

Early understanding can help your child thrive. If you have concerns about your child’s development, don’t wait to ask questions. Village helps families connect with trusted pediatric specialists — including occupational, speech, and physical therapists — who can provide guidance and early support.