Many children with autism avoid eye contact—not because they’re
being shy or rude, but because it can feel
overwhelming or uncomfortable.
For some, eye contact causes sensory overload, making it hard to focus on what’s being said. For others, it may simply feel unnatural or distracting. Some children may also struggle to understand the unspoken social cues that typically come with eye contact.
Avoiding eye contact is a common sign of autism, but it doesn’t mean a child isn’t listening or connecting. They may show engagement in other ways—like listening carefully, using gestures, or repeating what they’ve heard.
With support like Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy, children can gradually build comfort with social interactions, including eye contact, in a way that feels safe and respectful to them.
At Connect n Care ABA, we offer in-home ABA therapy throughout North Carolina, tailored to each child’s needs, including social and communication skills.
Worried about your child’s social behaviors like avoiding eye contact? Contact us today for a free consultation and let’s support your child’s growth step by step.
SOURCES:
https://www.healthline.com/health/sensory-overload#in-children
https://www.psychiatrist.com/news/why-people-with-autism-have-trouble-making-eye-contact/
https://www.autismspeaks.org/expert-opinion/autism-eye-contact
https://www.healthline.com/health/autism/autistic-eye-contact
https://emorymedicinemagazine.emory.edu/archives/issues/2017/winter/briefs/autism-and-eye-contact/index.html
https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2017/06/170615213252.htm
