When your child gets an autism diagnosis, you might hear the doctor mention Level 2. This can feel confusing. You might wonder: “What does that number mean? How will it affect my child’s life?”
Level 2 autism means your child needs more help with daily tasks compared to other autistic children. A child diagnosed with Level 2 autism might struggle with changes in routine or have trouble talking to others. They might get upset when things don’t go as planned.
With the right support from centers like Alter Behavioural Health, children with Level 2 autism can learn and live happy lives.
Level 2 Autism Symptoms
Difficulty with Communication
Children with Level 2 autism show clear signs that they need support. You might notice your child has a hard time making friends or talking with other kids. They may also use fewer words than other children their age, or say the same phrases repeatedly.
Struggles with Change
Changes can be especially challenging for them. Something as simple as their daily schedule shifting can cause distress. They may cry or refuse to do anything when things feel different.
Repetitive Behaviors
You might also see your child repeating the same movements. They might rock back and forth or line up toys in specific ways. These behaviors are just their way of calming down when the world feels too chaotic.
Challenges in Social Situations
Your child might not make eye contact or understand when someone is joking. They may want to play with other kids but not know how to start a conversation or join a game.
Difference Between Level 1 and Level 2 Autism
Autism comes in different levels based on how much support a person needs. Level 1 autism means a child needs some help. Level 2 means they need more help. Level 3 means they need a lot of help every day.
A child with Level 1 autism might be able to handle school with just a little extra support. They can usually talk in full sentences and manage most daily tasks on their own.
Children with Level 2 autism need more consistent help. They might need more therapy sessions each week and extra support at home. Their communication challenges are more noticeable, and they have a harder time when routines change.
The level doesn’t define your child’s future. It simply helps doctors and therapists know what kind of support to provide.
Level 2 Autism Support Needs
Your child will likely need several types of support throughout the day. At school, they might work with a special education teacher or have an aide who helps them stay focused and follow instructions.
Many children benefit from having a clear daily schedule. Using pictures or visual charts can make them feel more in control.
At home, you might need to make a few adjustments. It can be really helpful to create a quiet space where your child can go when they feel overwhelmed. Some parents use noise-canceling headphones or dim the lights to make the environment more comfortable.
Social skills training can help your child learn how to interact with others. A therapist can teach them how to start conversations and understand social rules.
Our team can work with your family to create a personalized support plan that fits your child’s needs and helps them grow.
How Is Level 2 Autism Diagnosed?
Getting a diagnosis usually involves several steps. Your child’s doctor will watch how they play, talk, and interact with others. They’ll ask you questions about what you’ve noticed at home.
A specialist will do a full evaluation. They might observe your child in different situations and ask them to complete certain tasks. The specialist looks at communication skills, social abilities, and behavior patterns.
Doctors make the diagnosis by observing your child and discussing their development with you. A doctor’s evaluation also determines the level of autism. This ensures your child gets the right accommodations.
Treatment for Level 2 Autism
Treatment involves helping your child build skills and feel more comfortable in daily life.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
Therapies like CBT help children manage anxiety and frustration. This approach can also reduce challenging behaviors and teach problem-solving skills that make everyday life easier.
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
DBT focuses on managing strong emotions and developing coping skills. Children learn mindfulness and emotional regulation techniques. This therapy is especially useful for autistic children who become easily overwhelmed or frustrated by change.
Occupational Therapy
Occupational therapy helps with everyday tasks. Your child might learn how to get dressed, use utensils, or handle sensory issues that make certain textures or sounds feel overwhelming.
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)
Some children with autism experience trauma or intense stress due to sensory overload or negative experiences. EMDR helps process these experiences safely, improving overall mental health. A 2025 study shows a link between greater sensory processing sensitivity (SPS) and higher stress levels.
We offer treatment programs designed specifically for children who need extra support. Our therapists understand that every child is different and create personalized plans for each child.
Level 2 Autism and Communication Challenges
Communication difficulties are a key part of Level 2 autism. Your child might speak in short sentences or have trouble finding the right words. They may understand what you say but struggle to respond.
Back-and-Forth Conversations
Some children with Level 2 autism are verbal but have trouble with back-and-forth conversations. They might talk about their favorite topic without noticing if the other person is interested.
Limited or No Speech
Other children use very few words or don’t speak at all. These children can still communicate through gestures, pictures, or electronic devices designed for communication.
Difficulty Understanding Nonverbal Cues
Understanding nonverbal communication is often hard. Your child might not pick up on facial expressions, tone of voice, or body language. This can make social interactions confusing for them.
How Therapy Can Help
Speech therapy and other interventions can help improve communication skills over time. A 2025 study by Superson et al. found that loved ones learn to adjust when both sides understand autism. The professionals in our team specialize in assisting children to find ways to express themselves effectively.
Your Child’s Path Forward Starts Here
Understanding Level 2 autism is the first step in helping your child thrive. Yes, your child will need support — and yes, there will be challenges. But with the right help, your child can develop new skills and enjoy life.
You don’t have to figure this out alone. We are here to support your family every step of the way. Click here to check if your insurance covers treatment at our facility.
Ready to learn more about how we can help your child? Contact us today to give your child the support they need to succeed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Level 2 autism be cured?
Autism is not a disease, so there’s no cure. However, therapy can help your child develop skills and become more independent over time.
Will my child with Level 2 autism be able to go to regular school?
Many children with Level 2 autism attend regular schools with support services. Your child might have an aide or receive other accommodations.
At what age can Level 2 autism be diagnosed?
Autism can often be diagnosed around age two, though some children receive their diagnosis later.
Is Level 2 autism considered severe?
Level 2 is considered moderate autism. It means your child needs more support than Level 1 but less intensive support than Level 3.
Will my child with Level 2 autism ever live independently?
Many adults with Level 2 autism live independently or semi-independently with some ongoing support. Each person’s journey is different.
