Identifying autism early can make a world of difference in your child's development. For families across Austin and surrounding communities, including Manor, Bee Cave, Lakeway, Pflugerville, Buda, and Round Rock, early autism support means access to the therapies children need to thrive at home, in school, and in the community. At Action Behavior Centers, one of the largest ABA providers in the U.S. with 200+ centers across Texas, we help families get answers faster and begin care sooner. We don't have waitlists, so your child can start reaching milestone moments right away.
What is autism, and what causes it?
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects how people learn, communicate, and interact with others. Autistic children may have challenges with social interactions, verbal and nonverbal communication, and understanding social cues. They may also have specific, intense interests or engage in repetitive behaviors.
Families in Austin are often overwhelmed by the amount of information, and unfortunately, a lot of misinformation, about what causes autism. Autism doesn't have one single known cause. Decades of research suggest it likely develops from a combination of factors that affect early brain development.
Genetics plays a significant role, as autism often runs in families. If a child is diagnosed with autism, their younger siblings may have a higher chance of being diagnosed as well. Environmental factors may also contribute, including advanced parental age, pregnancy complications such as low birth weight or premature birth, and prenatal exposure to certain medications or toxins. Scientists are learning more about autism every day.
The M-CHAT
Children 3 and younger
The Modified Checklist for Autism in Toddlers (M-CHAT) helps parents assess their child's risk for autism spectrum disorder (ASD). By answering questions about their child’s behavior, parents receive an autism risk score. This score can help parents decide if their child needs a more thorough evaluation.
The CAST
Children 4 and older
The Childhood Autism Spectrum Test (CAST), previously called the Childhood Asperger Syndrome Test, is an online questionnaire designed for parents. It asks about symptoms related to autism, such as issues with communication.
Need diagnostic support?
Children 18 months to 6 years old
If a screening tool or your child’s doctor suggests autism, the next step is to complete the ADOS-2 assessment. This research-backed evaluation is designed to help with accurate autism diagnosis for children of all ages, regardless of their language skills or developmental abilities.
Early signs of autism
Spotting early signs of autism is key for families in Austin and nearby communities such as Lakeway, Pflugerville, and Round Rock. Early detection means your child can receive therapy sooner, and research shows that earlier intervention drives faster developmental progress and better long-term outcomes.
Common early signs include:
- Trouble reading social cues or making friends in preschool or school settings
- Delayed speech or repeating words
- Distress when routines change
- Strong interests in specific topics
- Sensitivity to sounds, lights, or textures
- Motor challenges like tying shoes, riding a bike, or buttoning clothes
Families in the Austin area can start with our no-cost screeners, which take only a few minutes and help guide next steps.
The staff here is on point! I would highly recommend registering in this ABA program. Our son is 4 years old and has shown major improvement since he’s been enrolled (1.5 months). Never have had a bad experience, all of the therapists here are very good with all children from what I’ve witnessed. The director always greets us at the door at drop off and pick up with a very positive attitude. We have really enjoyed the warmth from this center! Our child has progressed very well in the little time that he has attended. Would rate 10 stars if possible! If you’re looking for a kind and compassionate environment for your children, would definitely consider ABC.
Developmental milestones by age
Every parent in Texas watches their child for new milestones, whether it's a first word, a first step, or heading off to kindergarten. Developmental milestones are skills most children can do by a certain age. They help parents and doctors see how a child is progressing and whether more support is needed.
- By 18 months, many children point to show interest, use a few words, follow simple directions, walk on their own, and start feeding themselves.
- By 2 years old, they use two-word phrases, point to pictures, wave or blow kisses, look to adults for guidance, run, kick a ball, and climb stairs.
- By 3 years old, they join other children in play, have short back-and-forth conversations and ask questions, draw a circle or string items, and calm down after brief separations.
- By 4 years old, they play pretend, comfort others, adapt to new settings, speak in four-word sentences, recognize colors, draw a person with several parts, catch a ball, and can unbutton.
- By 5 years old, they follow rules and take turns, count to 10, recognize or write letters, button clothing, and hop on one foot.
If your child isn’t reaching these milestones, it may be time to explore autism screening options in the Austin metro area.
What are the levels of autism?
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