Expert: Valerie Herskowitz - 5/17/2011

Question
Hello,

I have two boys, my first is 7 and my second is 19 months old. Our toddler does not speak a word and i am very concerned about it.  He has temper tantrums and throws himself backwards, although now he does it slower so as not to hurt himself.  I feel like all he does is cry when he doesn't get his way but he does have great eye contact, he does walk but can fall easily, he does respond to his name,he likes playing peek a boo, he does point to things to communicate and understands most of all the commands we give him. he smiles and laughs and plays with his older brother and toys, although i think sometimes he gets tired of the same toys all the time. he does like looking at books and pictures and enjoys when i point out and say things aloud. he is very attached to his father and puts his head on his shoulder when being comforted but doesn't give kisses too easily nor hugs, we have to coax him into doing it every now and then, if he sees us give his older brother a hug or a kiss he will want one too. My motherinlaw, who works with children, said she was concerned and thought we should have him evaluated, she could not give me a definite reason or example as to why she thinks he might have autism but she just does.  What is your opinion?  Thank you very much

Answer
Hi Kim

At the least, he is speech-delayed. It's hard to know whether he is in the autism spectrum from the information that you gave me, but if your mother-in-law who works with children is suspicious of autism and she is around a lot of children, I would definitely have him checked out by a specialist.

You should have an early intervention team in your community. Call the local school and get the number. They will evaluate and then offer treatment to you for your son.

Let me know how it goes