AboutJames Michael Roan Expertise I can provide information on autism and Asperger`s Disorder. Specifically, I can answer diagnostic, assessment, and educational planning questions related to children on the autism spectrum.
Experience
Past/Present clients Children aged 2-18 diagnosed with autism, Pdd-NOS, and Asperger's Disorder.
Expert: James Michael Roan Date: 5/13/2008 Subject: 18 month old in my childcare center
Question Hello. I began watching an 18 month old 3 months ago. I was very concerned when his parents told me he had STOPPED talking. After watching him for 8 hours a week, for 3 months, I have never heard him say one word. He will squeel occasionally when he is excited about a light or a large start I have hanging on my wall. He "zones" out all of the time. He does not usually answer to his own name. I have wondered if he was deaf. He does not "pretend Play" at all. He would rather play with the wheels on a car than roll it. He does not play peek a boo. I have to cover his eyes for him and he just does not seem to understand the humor in it. He does not wave goodbye. He does not point at things he wants. His interactive play is increasing some but he will wander off on his own frequently. His coordination seems a little jerky. He cried and cried when I turned on the vacum cleaner. He hit his head on the table rather hard one day and didn't even flinch. He is starting to show interest in the other children though and is playing much more WITH the other children. He almost looked like he was going to say something the other day but just didn't. This is the first time I had seem him even attempt to form a word but still no sound came out. He is starting to follow simple commands. (I have seen him do this just today.) He will smile at me now and make a little but longer eye contact. It seems as though he starts out looking at me but then it goes to a blank stare.
I did an online version of the Mchat test and he failed terribly. He failed 17 out of 23 questions I believe. He definately failed more than three of the "critical" questions.
He also drools non stop. He may have poor muscle tone and that is why he is not talking?
I am afraid to say anything to his parents. I may be completely off base and would only worry them but I am SURE something is not right with this little boy. What do you think?
Answer Hi Carrie;
This little chap has a heroine in his life...you. He definitely needs to be evaluated for autism as soon as possible.
This news is very frightening to parents but they will have to adjust. Early intervention can change his outcome dramatically the sooner he gets it. The more his parents wait, the less positive the outcome for this child. I suggest you gently share your concerns with them and hand them a copy of the M-CHAT and scoring. I have the links below. Mention how important early identification is. They will not likely get any meaningful support from their pediatrician without a completed M-CHAT in their hands. You can say you looked through the M-CHAT in relation the child but did not score and have them take their time answering the questions before scoring theirs.
You have done a wonderful life changing thing by taking the time to follow through with this on your own time.
