Imagine this:

You’re sitting in the doctor’s office, clutching a piece of paper. It’s the diagnostic report.

You skim through the paragraphs, but your eyes land on one phrase: “Level 1 Autism Spectrum Disorder.” Your heart skips. You’re not even sure what that means—except that your life just changed. If that’s you (or close to it), you’re in the right place.

And if you’re wondering what to do next, check out this guide:

👉🏼 Your Child Has Autism – Now What? A Parent’s Guide to Taking the Next Step Without the Overwhelm 

This post is for the parents who are just beginning their autism journey. The ones who have kids that seem “quirky but brilliant,” “shy but so clever,” or “super independent”— and now, suddenly, you’re reading about something called Level 1 ASD (also sometimes referred to, mistakenly, as mild autism or high-functioning autism).

Let’s break it down.

We’ll walk through what Level 1 Autism really means (and doesn’t), what early signs and traits to look for, and how to support your child with confidence and care.

What Is Level 1 Autism?

Level 1 Autism is the mildest classification on the autism spectrum. It means your child meets the criteria for Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) but requires support rather than substantial or very substantial support, which are the descriptors used for Level 2 and Level 3 autism.

According to the DSM-5 (the diagnostic manual used by professionals), children with Level 1 Autism have:

• Noticeable deficits in social communication

• Difficulty adjusting to changes in routine

• Trouble initiating or maintaining conversations

• Some restrictive or repetitive behaviors

But here’s what most websites don’t tell you:

• “Mild autism symptoms” doesn’t mean mild parenting challenges.

• “Level 1” doesn’t mean your child doesn’t struggle.

• And “support needed” doesn’t mean it’s optional

Support needs can vary from day to day and from environment to environment. Some children with Level 1 ASD do well in school but experience frequent meltdowns at home. Others may be articulate but socially withdrawn. The label is a starting point—not a blueprint.

Early Signs of Autism in Children With Level 1 ASD

You might’ve heard people say things like, “They’re just shy” or “Every kid develops at their own pace.” While that’s true, here are some common signs of Level 1 Autism Spectrum Disorder to look out for:

1. “My child doesn’t seem to ‘get’ social stuff”

Kids with Level 1 autism often struggle with things like:

• Starting or keeping a conversation going

• Understanding jokes, sarcasm, or facial expressions

• Playing with others (they may prefer to play alone or direct the play)

• Talking to people instead of with them

They may be very verbal but still feel a bit “out of sync” in social situations.

2. “They freak out when plans change”

You might notice:

• Meltdowns when routines change suddenly

• Trouble moving from one activity to another

• A need to do things exactly the same way every time

These aren’t just “bad behaviors”—they’re signs that your child’s brain feels safer with predictability and routine.

3. “They’re super focused on one thing”

Many autistic kids develop deep interests in specific topics:

• Dinosaurs

• Trains

• Space

• Math

• Maps

• Video games

And they’ll talk about that topic for hours if you let them. They can focus deeply on one thing, which is a strength. However, that very trait can make it difficult for them to change focus or interact with anyone who does not share their interest.

4. “They’re super sensitive to sounds, textures, or light”

You may notice:

• Covering ears when things get loud

• Hating certain clothing (tags, seams, or scratchy fabric)

• Trouble with tooth brushing, haircuts, or loud public places

• Needing lots of movement (spinning, jumping, bouncing)

This is called sensory sensitivity or part of autism, the part that is most commonly misunderstood.

5. “They have big reactions to small problems.”

This might look like:

• Meltdowns over the “wrong” colored cup

• Refusing to leave the house if their socks feel funny

• Shutting down or crying when something unexpected happens

These aren’t tantrums. They are signs your child is overwhelmed and doesn’t yet have the tools to cope.

What “Level 1” Doesn’t Mean in ABA

It’s natural to feel uncertain or overwhelmed after receiving a diagnosis of mild autism. But let’s clear up a few myths.

It doesn’t mean your child isn’t smart

In fact, many children with Level 1 ASD are intellectually gifted. What they may struggle with is flexibility, emotional regulation, or understanding unspoken social rules.

It doesn’t mean your child lacks empathy

Children that have autism experience emotions on an entirely different level, sometimes to the point of it becoming overwhelming. The struggle usually isn’t feeling empathy; it is showing it the way other people wish.

It doesn’t mean your child will “grow out of it”

Your child will not outgrow autism, however, with the right assistance, they can learn to live in their own way.

How to Support a Child Diagnosed With Level 1 Autism

Whether you’ve just received a diagnosis or are still in the process, here’s a roadmap to begin offering your child meaningful support today.

1. Start Small: What’s the Biggest Challenge Right Now?

You don’t need to fix everything. Start with the one challenge that’s creating the most stress.

• Is it getting out the door in the morning?

• Meltdowns at bedtime?

• Overstimulation after school?

Start there. Get curious. Keep notes. Small improvements make a big difference.

2. Build a Team You Trust

Working with professionals makes all the difference. The following specialists can support your child with Level 1 Autism:

• BCBA (Board Certified Behavior Analyst): Uses ABA therapy to help develop social, communication, and life skills.

• Speech-Language Pathologist: Helps with pragmatic (social) language challenges.

• Occupational Therapist (OT): Supports with sensory integration, motor planning, and daily life skills.

  
  

If you’re new to ABA and unsure how it works (or whether it’s a good fit for your child), you might find this breakdown helpful: 👉🏼 The Pros and Cons of ABA Therapy — What Parents Should Know 

3. Observe, Don’t Judge

Use a simple journal to write down what happened before, during, and after a tough moment. This helps you:

• Identify patterns and triggers. Notice progress. Feel more in control

This is the first step in using behavioral science at home without needing a PhD.

4. Lead With Connection

Before you correct a behavior, build the bond.

• Follow their lead during play

• Make space for their interests

• Offer simple choices instead of rigid commands

• Use language they understand

Progress is easier when your child feels seen and safe.

5. Don’t Forget About You

Yes, really. You’re not just a parent—you’re a guide, an advocate, and an emotional anchor. You need rest, community, and care too.

• Join a parent group (online or in person)

• Practice saying “no” to draining commitments

• Schedule your own downtime

• Ask providers how they support parents—not just kids

What Does the Future Look Like for Kids With Mild Autism?

Many parents ask: “Will my child be okay?”

Of course! But their form of “okay” might be different from someone else’s, and that’s perfectly alright. With the appropriate resources and support, children with Level 1 Autism are able to attend school, make friends, live on their own, pursue work opportunities, and experience happiness. They do not have to be “normal”—what they need is compassion, empathy, and understanding.

FAQs About Level 1 Autism 

The Truth About Level 1 Autism (And What Comes Next)

You might still be wondering:

“Is my child going to be okay?”

Here’s the truth: they already are.

They don’t need fixing. They need support.

They need people who see their potential—even when it looks different.

They need routines that work for them, not just for the world around them.

They need a parent who’s willing to learn, ask questions, and try again. (And that’s already you.)

You don’t have to do everything today.

You just have to take the next right step.

And you don’t have to do it alone. We’re here when you’re ready.

Ready to Start?

If you are on the waiting list, or simply wish to have more help, consider enrolling in our Celeration ABA Next Steps Plan today.

We will guide you and your child every step of the way with scientifically proven methods, deep care, and tangible results—without adding any stress.

Click here to start our Next Steps Plan.