By 12 months, which sign may suggest autism?

• A. Babbling, gestures, and response to name are present
• B. Little/no babbling, no gestures, no response to name
• C. Early use of words
• D. Regular joint attention

Answer: (B)

Early signs of autism revolve around social-communication milestones in the first year. By about 12 months, many children babble, use simple gestures (like pointing or waving), and respond to their name. When a child shows little or no babbling, lacks gestures, and does not respond to their name, it signals a disruption in social-communication development and joint attention, which are core areas affected in autism. This combination is a strong red flag and would prompt screening and referral for further evaluation. In contrast, having clear babbling with gestures and a response to name, early use of words, or ongoing regular joint attention are typical or advanced signs of development and do not raise autism concerns by themselves.