Early care and education providers often are the first to notice children's developmental differences because their extensive knowledge about and experience with typical development is a baseline frame for recognizing differences. Educators of young children are aware that the earlier children with developmental delays, such as those caused by hearing loss or autism, receive intervention, the better their long-term outcomes are likely to be. Early childhood professionals also seek to thoughtfully bring developmental concerns to a family's attention. This article reviews early characteristics of autism, recommends screening procedures, discusses how families might respond when informed, and outlines steps to refer children and their families for early intervention. In order to make accurate referrals, early educators must first be knowledgeable about the early clues or symptomatic behavior that children with autism exhibit. (Contains 2 tables, 2 resources and 3 online resources.)