What is a common sign of autism spectrum disorder?

Delayed language development is a common sign of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) because many individuals with ASD experience difficulties in acquiring language skills at the same pace as their peers. This can manifest as a lack of verbal communication or a slower rate of speech development, with some children exhibiting little or no speech during early childhood.

In contrast, excessive vocabulary use, advanced understanding of grammar, and fluent speech are generally not indicative of autism. While some individuals on the spectrum may develop advanced language skills later on, many struggle significantly with the social aspects of communication, including the pragmatic use of language, which is crucial for effective interaction. Delayed language development is more aligned with the characteristics often observed in children diagnosed with ASD.