AboutJene Aviram Expertise How do you know if your child has autism? If you're concerned about your child's behavior and would like to know if they're symptoms of autism, I can help you. If you need behavior and parenting strategies, I have many suggestions and ideas to help you. I can also help you with questions on ABA therapy. I cannot answer biomedical questions.
Experience I am one of the co-founders of Natural Learning Concepts, a manufacturing company for autism and special education materials. I am an author and writer and my work on the autism spectrum is frequently published by many organizations and renowned magazines. My son has Aspergers and my nephew has autism.
Publications Autism/Aspergers Digest
Autism Society of America
Autism Today Issue
Spirit Magazine
The Autism Perspective Magazine
Yahoo News
Parenting Magazine
Education/Credentials My original background and education is computer network engineering. A turn of events led me to switch careers in early 2000 when my passion and driving force became helping people on the autism spectrum. I then co-founded a successful company that helps people on the autism spectrum every day.
Question Hi! I am concerned that my child may have a mild form of autism. His speech seems delayed, or everyone around me seems to think so. He says a few words, momma, papa, ball. It concerns me that he does not say bite, cup or what he wants. He only grunts for those things. He will occasionally wave or say byebye but doesnt very often. He does however know EVERY animal sound you can imagine and when you ask him what they say or he sees them he will make their sound, but he will not say the animal name. He is an only child and doesnt go to a day care. He makes eye contact and loves to give kisses. He loves to play peekaboo and laughs all the time. I really dont think he plays with toys funny, and he loves to watch cartoons on TV. It does seem like he ignores me when I call his name sometimes. He seems to do some strange things...like he walks on his toes occasionally (the dr said this was normal when I asked at his 18mo checkup) and sometimes when he runs he has his arms behind him. He however does not seem clumsy, he has very good balance. He loves to walk up and down stairs. He does seem to have a high pain tolerance. He does not seem especially social when we are around other kids, but I have always thought that was probably because he is usually only around adults. I am sorry this is so long. I am trying to decide if I need to make a special trip to the doctor or if I should just wait until his 2 year old checkup. Thank you!
Answer Hi Kim,
It sounds like your son is very smart. He might not be talking a lot but he certainly understands. My philosophy is never delay when you're concerned. If I were in your shoes, I would definitely request an evaluation from Early Intervention. Your son has some great skills and positive points, but there are also enough concerning aspects to warrant an evaluation.
I think it will help you greatly to read this article called "How do you know if your child has autism?" Your son is still young, but I think it will help you determine if your concerns are warranted or not. You can find the article at http://www.nlconcepts.com/autism-howdoyouknow.htm
In summary, I think it's wonderful how your son makes eye contact, loves to play, laughs and is affectionate. I definitely think an evaluation is important for some of the other behaviors you mentioned. Make sure you print out your post so that you remember to tell the evaluator the concerns you mentioned here.
