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Autism/losing words
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Question
My grandson is 22 months with a significant speech delay. My biggest concern is that he will learn a word, use it for awhile and then it disappears. He said "love you" unsolicited and appropriately for 2 months and now will not say it even when prompted. He has lost other words he learned very quickly as well such as swing and ice cream. Is this a red flag for autism or is there another cause. He is very social and interactive.
Hi Bonnie
Losing words is certainly a red flag for autism, but that doesn't mean he has autism. As you mentioned, he has a significant language delay. so hopefully he is getting therapy. But since he is exhibiting one of the big red flags for autism, I would get him evaluated by a competent doctor or psychologist. There may be other signs that you are missing
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Answers by Expert:
Valerie Herskowitz
Expertise
I am an autism expert and speech pathologist (for over 30 years). I am also the parent of a child with autism. I can answer any question on autism dealing with communication, education, behavior and diet. I cannot answer questions that are medical in nature or are dealing with medications.
Experience
I have run a therapy center for individuals with autism since 1981. I lecture all over the country. I also teach classes on autism on line.
Organizations
Vice President of Communications Florida Association of Speech-Language Pathologists and Audiologists
Member American Speech and Hearing Association,
MembernAutism Society of America,
President of the National Autism Registry,
Vice President of the Association for Developmentally Disabled Adults and Adolescents.
Publications
Autism Society of America's national publication (September 2008).
Advance Magazine,
South Florida Parenting,
Spectrum Magazine,
I am the author of: Autism and Computers: Maximizing Independence Through Technology (available:www.valerieherskowitz.com)
Education/Credentials
I have a masters degree in speech pathology
Awards and Honors
I won a Stevie Award in 2004: Lifetime Achievement Award for my work with individuals with autism. My therapy center won, Judge's Choice Award Best Center in South Florida by South Florida Parenting magazine 2005.
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