Expert: Jene Aviram - 5/27/2009

Question
Here is my situation.  I have a healthy 3 month old boy.  He loves to smile at us and even is started to sorta laugh.  He recognizes me, his daddy and both of my parents (they are around him almost everyday).  He smiles at me when I make faces, tickle him, etc.  He loves being held and prob prefers it over anything else.  Isn't a big cuddler but will cuddle when he first wakes up or if he's really tired before a nap.  What is does do is if we are holding him, he won't look at us.  He looks all around instead of at our faces.  He may look quickly but turns away.  He only does this when we are holding him.  He stares at us if he is laying on his changing table, in the crib, in the car seat or stroller, etc....but when we hold him, he looks away.  Could this be a early sign of autism?  I'm so worried!  I've read other people write about their babies doing this and they were fine...but I work in the school system and see autist children a lot and I can't help but worry.  Please give any advice!

Answer
Hi Melissa,

Your baby is so young.  I know it's hard not to worry but I don't think you have anything to be concerned about.  It sounds like your little boy is right on track.  At just 3 months old he is interacting beautifully with you.  Babies at this age are still developing their vision.  It might be difficult for him to focus at that range, or perhaps he feels secure in your arms and happy to explore the world around him.  Babies at this young age are just becoming familiar with the world around them, they are not expected to make consistent eye contact.  I know that working in the school system can multiply concerns as you are in contact with lots of children who need extra help, but I truly don't think you have any cause for concern.  Enjoy your baby!  He sounds too cute for words!

Jene Aviram
http://www.nlconcepts.com