Expert: James Michael Roan - 6/25/2006

Question
Thank you for the information. I answered the questions. He "failed" 11. (#5,6,7,9,13,15,17,19,21,22,23)
Any chance it could still be just an expressive language delay?

Answer
Hi Cheryl;

I'm sorry, but after reviewing his scores I would say the odds are low that he does not have at least mild autism/Asperger's Syndrome. Since social and verbal behavior are embedded in one another its difficult to say. The motivation for language development is the social piece. If a child has low social interest, then communication tends to be limited to requesting. On the other hand, if expressive language is impaired for physical or cognitive reasons, then it limits the variety and quality of social overtures.


I do think you should have a team of specialists evaluate him for an autism spectrum disorder. The results of the M-CHAT are not conclusive. It is a screener for the "possibility of having autism." That is all. Take the results of the M-CHAT with you to the evaluation team.

What can you do right now? We know your son has low verbal and nonverbal communication skills. Work on these with him at home. Keep up with the speech and language therapy. Ask the SLP what sort of age appropriate interactive games you can play with him and 1 or 2 other children. Your job is to regulate and encourage good communication skills, i.e., turn taking. Encourage gestures and nonverbal signals. I cannot be specific here because I do not have any test scores on him and don't know his level of ability. The SLP can handle this.

Take care Cheryl and stay in touch. This NOT the end of the world, although I'm certain it feels that way now. Based on your descriptions, IF your son has autism, I am speculating that he is very high functioning and will do okay.

Kind Regards,
James