Expert: James Michael Roan - 2/26/2009

Question
James:
I have a bright almost 2 year old (ask him what a dog, horse, sheep, cow, etc. says and he answers, knows his colors, etc.).  His is affectionate and talks constantly.  "Would you like to go on a walk?" "Da (yes)" "Go get your shoes."  He does.  My mild concerns: He will frequently stim at during meals in his high chair- hands and feet rotating, loud yelling/sounds.  It seemed that this was going away and now is coming back.  Also, he is fascinated by audio speakers or will repeatedly talk about things he is extremely interested in, like garbage trucks.  He is very watchful of other children but becomes very quiet in the presence of those he does not know.  He normally will make eye contact but tends to look away for a little while after I've returned from being gone a couple of days from an infequent trip.  Your input is greatly appreciated.
Dan

Answer
Hi Dan;

Those behaviors can be early indicators of high functioning autism such as PDD-NOS/Asperger's syndrome (AS), but not guaranteed either. You will be hard pressed to find someone to diagnose at this age. Most AS-specific assessments don't appear to age 3 and others at ages 4 and 5.

I must admit, I have seen these behaviors in young boys with AS as early as 2 years and 10 months, so you will want to keep a close eye on him. If you live in the U.S. you can refer him to your school district's Early Intervention program. The assessment is free as are intervention services if he qualifies for them.

Kind regards,
James









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Bio

James Roan is a certified school psychologist who has been consulting in the areas of autism, Asperger’s Syndrome, and learning difficulties in the United States and in Ireland for over ten years (http://www.jamesroan.com). James earned his M.Ed. in School Psychology and M. Ed. in Adult Education and receives ongoing post graduate training in autism at the University of Washington’s Autism Center. James Roan has traveled to Galway, Limerick, Mayo, Clare, Dublin, Cork, Waterford, and other cities and counties across Ireland assessing children and adults, and consulting with solicitors (lawyers) in defense of children with disabilities. James Roan was the consulting psychologist responsible for many of the autism and AD/HD screening tools and other content for Access Special Needs.Com. James Roan consulted with the graduate department of the Waterford Institute of Technology in Waterford Ireland in the development of their graduate program for the certification of private autism tutors. James has conducted formal assessments of students in the Autism Unit in the Claddagh National School in County Galway Ireland.