Expert: Jene Aviram - 1/4/2010

Question
QUESTION: Hi Jene,
thank you for your reply.  I am sorry but it would not allow me to ask a follow up so I have had to post a new question.  I hope you remember who I am.

In your reply you said there were "some concerns".  May I ask what these were - is is specifically the lack of vocab at 14 months and the looking at the mouth that is concerning you?  Or is it more than this?

I forgot to mention that he is doing LOTS of jargoning with lots of vowels and consenants.  Just no words (except "ta").

Thank you so much once more.

Kindest regards
Melissa.

ANSWER: Of course I remember you!  How could I not?!

There are three things that I find concerning that you mentioned.
The first one is that he doesn't use mama and dada in context.  If you ask "Where is Mama?" Or Where is Daddy?", does he turn to look at you or point to you or your husband?

The second thing is that he focuses on your mouth when you speak.  He should be looking to your eyes for information instead of your mouth.  I'm NOT saying he has autism, but this is often found in kids with autism so it's something to watch out for.  Just remember you need a whole set of criteria for autism. A couple of things here or there is not enough to be on the spectrum.

And lastly, although I'm not sure how relevant it still is since your little one is growing and maturing every day. But you had mentioned that he was more interested in household objects than his toys.  

If I had to write a list of what is encouraging about your son, it would be a LOT longer than three things.  And things do sound so promising with your son.  In fact, he sounds delightful.  Still, there's nothing like peace of mind and being sure, which is why it's best to get a thorough evaluation.  It's still very hard to tell at his age, so even if the appointment takes a little longer to get, it might stand in your favor.

And as you know, I'm always here if I can help in any way.
Hang in there.

Jene Aviram
http://www.nlconcepts.com

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Thanks so much Jene, I truly to appreciate being able to bounce things off of you.  So so much!

Yes, if I say where is daddy, he will at least turn and look at his dad, and usually point to him.  So he KNOWS who we are, he just doesn't vocalise it yet.  

I know, the looking at the mouth thing is what has me quite concerned too.  I can't think of any other reason why he would do that.  He is quite intrigued with our mouths, always wanting to put things in them, his fingers, food etc.  My husband has himself convinced that he looks at our mouths when we speak to learn how to form words, I'm not so convinced.  

And yes, he still does seem more interested in household objects rather than his toys alot of the time.

Thanks again.  I will keep you posted with how I go if/when I get in to see the Dev Pead.

Kindest regards
Melissa.

Answer
It's really good news about the identification of "mommy" and "daddy."  That shows that continued speech therapy will really do the trick.
So three points of concern are now down to two.  Looking good!
Yes, please keep me posted after your appointment.  Would love to hear back from you.

Jene Aviram
http://www.nlconcepts.com