Expert: Valerie Herskowitz - 12/22/2008

Question
My daughter is nearly 15 month ( on 2nd Jan she will be 15 month). i have always noticed that she avoid looking into eyes. maybe while playing tickle or peekaboo she will look for more than 5-10 sec. does not seem to have stranger anxiety. she knows sign language of upto 20  words and if we ask her she will tell us. But will just say mama and dadoo in general. she even points out to things she want or sign water when she wants water. she can follow directions. at time she doesn't like it if i hug her a lot.. but wants to stick to me close by.. or will come on her own to hug or kiss when in mood.

do you think these are the signs of autism? i have pediatric appt on 8 Jan and wanted to know if i should bring up these points also. your answer will be highly appreciated.
Thanks


Answer
Well-it's hard to say at this point. My question is, why is she learning sign language? I think it is fine, just curious why you taught her sign. I don't know if there is autism, but I would start working on stimulating verbal language as she is a bit behind on this. Most of the time, first words start around now. But the fact that she learned 20 signs is great. It is also a good sign that she follows directions. She may have a little bit of a sensory issue if she doesn't like hugs and is a bit slow to warm up.

I wouldn't be too worried yet. Go ahead and talk to the pediatrician, but she isn't really showing big signs of autism at this time.

Keep in touch. I would like to know how she progresses with the verbal language over the next 3 months. If you want some pointers to help stimulate the verbal, I can do a short consultation with you.

Valerie Herskowitz, MA CCC
valerieherskowitz.com