Regression
Regression means a child losing skills they used to have, such as words they used to say. It is always worth telling a doctor about, whatever the cause turns out to be.
Applies across the UK
Parents usually notice it as words dropping away, or a skill like waving, pointing or toileting fading out. It can happen slowly or over a few weeks.
Losing skills has many possible explanations. It can be part of how autism Autism Autism is a difference in how the brain develops. It shapes how an autistic child sees and experiences the world, how they communicate, and how they respond to things like noise, light and touch. Read the full definition of Autism unfolds in a young child, it can follow exhaustion or overwhelm in an older one, and sometimes it has a separate medical cause that needs its own attention.
Because of that last possibility, do not sit on it. Book a GP GP Your family doctor. For many families the GP is the first person to talk to, and the person who refers your child on to a specialist. Read the full definition of GP appointment, describe exactly what was there before and what has changed, and say when it started. Short videos from your phone can help the doctor see what you see.
Related words
Where this comes from
- Autism spectrum disorder in under 19s: recognition, referral and diagnosis (CG128) , National Institute for Health and Care Excellence. Checked 2026-08-15.
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