Expert: James Michael Roan - 9/28/2007

Question
Hi I have a 11 month old son who was a preemie. Some times I get concerned about him. He is saying some words ma, da, and the rest I can't understand. But his temper is another thing hes very hyper. Doesn't want to sleep. Throws fits @ 6months with throwing his head back screaming ect. I have talked to the drs they  dont think anything of it. Is this a normal 11 month old acts? He is not effection at all. I try to kiss him he push my face away. Hug he screams. If you could help me in any way to how too work with him that would be great!

Answer
Hi Crystal;

There are dozens of reasons/causes for the behavior you describe. Has he been checked for ear infections? Also, he probably has some sensory delays, which he should be evaluated for. If you live in the U.S. your school district is responsible for the assessment of children 0-21 years of age. Call their special education department.

You have to know the source of his problems before I can recommend intervention.

Here are the red flags indicating risk for an autism spectrum disorder:

6-12 Month Markers:

·   Infrequent eye contact
·   Failure to orient to name
·   Does not smile in response to smiles from others
·   Social and emotional passivity
·   Fixation on objects

By 12 Months:

·   Poor or no eye contact
·   Failure to orient to name
·   Poor imitation
·   No babbling by 12 months
·   No gesturing by 12 months

By 16 Months:

·   No single words by 16 months
·   No pointing to objects or events of interest in an effort to share

By 24 Months:

·   No spontaneous two-word phrases
·   Loss of any language or social skills at any age


Let me know how his assessment turn out and make sure the occupational therapist does a Infant/Toddler Sensory Profile (7-36 months) for him.

Kind regards,
James