Early Signs of Autism: Developmental Milestone Checklist
A free, interactive developmental milestone checklist for children aged 0–3 years. Track milestones across domains identified by the CDC and understand what to watch for.
Mga senyales ng autism sa bata · palatandaan ng autism · milestones ng bata · checklist ng developmental delay
Important: This checklist is an informational guide only — it is NOT a diagnostic assessment and does not replace a professional evaluation. If you have any concerns about your child's development, please consult your pediatrician or a developmental pediatrician.
Understanding Autism Spectrum Disorder
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects communication, social interaction, and behaviour. In the Philippines, more children are being identified and supported earlier than before.
Every Child Is Different
Some children show early signs like little eye contact or late babbling. Others seem to develop normally, then change around 18–24 months. The spectrum is wide.
Screen from 18 Months
Pediatricians recommend autism screening at 18 and 24 months, with a referral to a developmental pediatrician if there are concerns. The earlier, the better.
Early Intervention Works
Children who start therapy before age 3 make much bigger gains in language, social skills, and independence. The earlier the support, the better the outcome.
This Checklist Covers 4 CDC Developmental Domains:
Social & Emotional
Eye contact, joint attention, emotional expression, and social interaction
Language & Communication
Speech, babbling, gestures, and understanding language
Cognitive
Learning, problem-solving, exploration, and thinking skills
Movement & Physical Development
Fine and gross motor milestones, coordination, and physical growth
Parents — Trust Your Gut
You notice the small things — how they don't look up when you call their name ("hindi lumilingon"), or how they play differently from other kids. That instinct matters.
Parents are often the first to notice developmental differences — sometimes months before a screening does. If something worries you, it's worth acting on rather than waiting.
You might worry about labelling your child or overreacting. But no parent has ever regretted acting early. If your child is developing typically, an assessment gives you peace of mind. If there's a concern, you've given your child the greatest gift — time.
If your gut is telling you something, listen to it. Nobody knows your child better than you do — even if everyone says "antayin mo lang, mawawala din yan paglaki," or "ganyan ka din naman nung bata ka."
How to Use This Checklist
1
Select your child's age using the buttons below. Only milestones for that age group will appear.
2
Tap each milestone your child has achieved. A check mark will appear to confirm your selection.
3
Review the summary at the bottom — it updates automatically and flags any areas to discuss with your doctor.
✓Tap a milestone to check it — tap again to uncheck. Your summary will automatically highlight any areas that may need attention.
By 2 months
By 2 Months
0 / 11
Social & Emotional
0/4
Language & Communication
0/2
Cognitive
0/2
Movement & Physical
0/3
By 4 months
By 4 Months
0 / 13
Social & Emotional
0/3
Language & Communication
0/3
Cognitive
0/2
Movement & Physical
0/5
By 6 months
By 6 Months
0 / 12
Social & Emotional
0/3
Language & Communication
0/3
Cognitive
0/3
Movement & Physical
0/3
By 9 months
By 9 Months
0 / 13
Social & Emotional
0/5
Language & Communication
0/2
Cognitive
0/2
Movement & Physical
0/4
By 12 months
By 12 Months
0 / 10
Social & Emotional
0/1
Language & Communication
0/3
Cognitive
0/2
Movement & Physical
0/4
By 15 months
By 15 Months
0 / 13
Social & Emotional
0/5
Language & Communication
0/4
Cognitive
0/2
Movement & Physical
0/2
By 18 months
By 18 Months
0 / 15
Social & Emotional
0/5
Language & Communication
0/2
Cognitive
0/2
Movement & Physical
0/6
By 24 months
By 24 Months
0 / 13
Social & Emotional
0/2
Language & Communication
0/4
Cognitive
0/3
Movement & Physical
0/4
By 30 months
By 30 Months
0 / 15
Social & Emotional
0/3
Language & Communication
0/4
Cognitive
0/4
Movement & Physical
0/4
By 36 months
By 3 Years
0 / 12
Social & Emotional
0/2
Language & Communication
0/5
Cognitive
0/2
Movement & Physical
0/3
Your Results — By 2 Months
0
Milestones Achieved
11
Expected for Age
Start checking milestones to see your child's developmental progress. Every milestone your child has achieved is a sign of healthy development.
Milestones to Watch
These areas are highlighted because they are particularly important for early communication and social development. If you notice persistent concerns in these areas, we recommend discussing them with your pediatrician or a developmental pediatrician.
Important: This checklist is an informational guide only — it is NOT a diagnostic assessment and does not replace a professional evaluation. If you have concerns, please consult your pediatrician or a developmental pediatrician.
You Don't Have to Wait for a Diagnosis to Start.
The wait for a developmental pediatrician here in the Philippines can take months — and that uncertainty is hard. At Autism Partnership Manila, our clinical team can identify developmental gaps and skill deficits, and your child can begin receiving targeted support right away.
Whether you're still waiting for an appointment, have just started noticing concerns, or simply want a second opinion — talking to us may give you the clarity and peace of mind you need.
Tell us a little about your child and pick a time that works for you. Our clinical team at Autism Partnership Manila will get back to you.
FAQ — Autism in the Philippines
What are the earliest signs of autism in babies?
The earliest signs include limited eye contact, absence of social smiling by 6–8 weeks, not responding to their name by 12 months (hindi lumilingon), no babbling by 12 months, and limited use of gestures like pointing or waving. Not all children with autism show early signs, which is why regular developmental check-ups are important.
Does failing milestones mean my child has autism?
No. A milestone checklist is a screening guide, not a diagnostic instrument. Missing milestones may indicate a developmental delay that could have many causes. Only a qualified professional — such as a developmental pediatrician — can diagnose autism through comprehensive evaluation. The most important step is to seek an assessment if you have concerns — early intervention is always beneficial regardless of diagnosis.
Should I wait to see if my child "lalaki rin"?
No. While every child develops at their own pace, research consistently shows that early intervention — particularly before age 3 — leads to significantly better outcomes. The brain is most plastic during the early years, and targeted support during this window can make a lasting difference. If you have concerns, act now — you will never regret starting early.
Where can I get my child screened or assessed in the Philippines?
Start with your pediatrician, who can do a developmental check and refer you to a developmental pediatrician for a formal assessment. Assessment services are available at hospitals such as Makati Medical Center, St. Luke's Quezon City and BGC, The Medical City, and many private clinics. Support organisations such as PACDLD (Philippine Association for Citizens with Developmental and Learning Disabilities, Inc.) can also help you find providers and family support. A diagnosis also allows you to apply for a PWD ID, which provides discounts on therapies, medicines, and services. Autism Partnership Manila also offers a free 1-hour parent consultation if you'd like clinical input while you wait for an appointment.
Sources:
Developmental milestones: CDC "Learn the Signs. Act Early" (75th percentile). Reproduced with attribution to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
