These changes can cause great distress, and often produce crying, tantrums, or self-injurious behavior. Uneven development - a child with autism may excel in one area and fall behind in another. Lack of eye contact - one of the largest indicators of autism, this particular trait is probably the most well recognized. Often the child with autism makes little or no eye contact, or only brief eye contact with those the child is familiar with. Although some autistic people do not display this trait, a majority of them do.
Difficulty relating to peers - autistic children have difficulty playing with other children.
It may be due to the difference in ability levels. Typically, this involves imagination, speech, physical coordination, and social skills. Many autistics tend to be unable to process that many acts at the same time, which makes it nearly impossible for them to interact in a meaningful way. They may sit alongside their peers, but not actually engage in play. Or, they may observe their peers, even comment on what they are doing, but not make an effort to join in.