Expert: Jene Aviram - 4/9/2009

Question
my son is 15 months old. I have noticed some things that other kids his age dont do. My son will throw uncontrollable fits. And he does answer when you call him if he is doing something already. He wont even look at you when you call his name if he is busy with a toy. When he has friends to play with he takes toys from them then doesnt even play with the toy he takes most of the time. He likes to play alone or if i try to play with him he can only focus on one person at a time. If his daddy comes to try to play also he only interacts with one of us. If in a group of kids he will watch them for a few mins atleast before he trys to interact. Do i need to be concerned?

Answer
Hi Tamera,

If you told me your son was three years old I would be far more concerned.  He is only 15 months and it's very possible that he could be late in developing socially.  Of course, you only mentioned very little about him so I don't have a full picture.  I'd like you to read this article called "How do you know if your child has autism?"  Your son might be a little young right now, but read it and keep it.  You can find the article here http://www.nlconcepts.com/autism-howdoyouknow.htm

I would also mention to your pediatrician your concerns.  When your child is 18 to 20 months, you can always revisit the issue and request an evaluation through Early Intervention.  If you need it, you can go to this link and select your state, then scroll down and call the local offices to ask for help in getting an evaluation.  Your pediatrician might also be able to guide you in who to call.

http://www.nichcy.org/Pages/StateSpecificInfo.aspx


I hope this has been of some help.

Jene Aviram
http://www.nlconcepts.com