Autism/three month old

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Expert: - 1/15/2009


Question
Hi there-  I'm writing on behalf of a friend.  Her 3 month old boy is very different from other 3 month old babies I've met.  He does not smile, even if you smile and speak to him.  He cries a lot.  He does not grab toys.  He does not look at people or at things when you hold them up.  It's mainly that he seems to lack connection with people and things.   I find it strange.
My friend is concerned, and me, along with everyone else, is telling her that he's just his own little personality and that every baby is different.   
Should she be concerned?  Should I speak with her more frankly?  Her baby seems so disconnected from the world around him and even from her that I find it disconcerting.

Thanks very much.

Answer
Has she spoken to her pediatrician? It is a little concerning as a 3 month old baby should be engaging with the caretaker through smiles and giggle. I would also have his hearing checked to be sure that is ok. Get back to me after your friend has spoken with the pediatrician.

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Valerie Herskowitz

Expertise

I am an autism expert and speech pathologist (for over 30 years). I am also the parent of a child with autism. I can answer any question on autism dealing with communication, education, behavior and diet. I cannot answer questions that are medical in nature or are dealing with medications.

Experience

I have run a therapy center for individuals with autism since 1981. I lecture all over the country. I also teach classes on autism on line.

Organizations
Vice President of Communications Florida Association of Speech-Language Pathologists and Audiologists Member American Speech and Hearing Association, MembernAutism Society of America, President of the National Autism Registry, Vice President of the Association for Developmentally Disabled Adults and Adolescents.

Publications
Autism Society of America's national publication (September 2008). Advance Magazine, South Florida Parenting, Spectrum Magazine, I am the author of: Autism and Computers: Maximizing Independence Through Technology (available:www.valerieherskowitz.com)

Education/Credentials
I have a masters degree in speech pathology

Awards and Honors
I won a Stevie Award in 2004: Lifetime Achievement Award for my work with individuals with autism. My therapy center won, Judge's Choice Award Best Center in South Florida by South Florida Parenting magazine 2005.

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