Autism spectrum disorder is often first suspected when parents notice differences in speech, social interaction, play, or behaviour—but not every developmental variation points to autism. Early identification depends on recognizing meaningful red flags, understanding developmental milestones, and distinguishing between common concerns such as speech delay, excessive screen exposure, and features that may warrant further evaluation.

This session will explore the early signs and clinical considerations in suspected autism, focusing on speech and language delays, screen time, social communication, behaviour, and developmental red flags. The discussion will cover when to observe and monitor, when to investigate further, and when referral for developmental assessment may be appropriate. Through practical clinical scenarios, the session will help clinicians approach parental concerns with greater clarity and confidence, while emphasizing the importance of early recognition and timely intervention. The discussion will address the key question: when should a developmental concern raise suspicion for autism, and what should clinicians do next?