Expert: James Michael Roan - 5/31/2006

Question
My son is just 3 months old.  For about 2 months I've noticed he has trouble with eye contact at times.  Recently he is great with eye contact, smiling ang laughing while laying down.  As soon as I pick him up facing me or put him on my lap facing me he will never look at me.  He automatically turns his head to the side.  He reacts to everyone the same.  He just recently started playing with his hands but has not looked at them yet.  He does like to be held.  Gets fussy if left alone.  I am worried about autism.  Also I have read about head growth.  His head was 14" at 5 days and then 14.5 at one month.  At 2 months it was 16".  Is 1.5 inches considered rapid growth?  Thank You, Sara

Answer
Hi Sara;

When it comes to head circumference statistics you should consult your pediatrician. Rapid head growth was noted in 6% of typically developing children in the research that identified this correlation.

In autism we are looking primarily for a significant social delay: low eye contact, aversion to being looked at, aversion to touch and being held, and lack of interest in others all together. Three months is still young for social development. You can encourage social interest/development, however, by playing variations of the "peek-a-boo" and "I'm going to get you!" games. Be sure to exaggerate your voice and facial expression.

Stay in touch if you like to monitor your son's social development.

Kind regards,
James