Expert: James Michael Roan - 11/28/2005

Question
Born July 10, 2003. No verbal skills at present
just constant humming. Currently receiving OT
for sensory issues. I would like help to make sure
the boys receive necessary testing. Where do I start?
Both boys are not cuddlers. Gross motor skills
seem fine. They are climbers. Both have problems
adjusting to new activities.
I am the grandmother. My daughter, the mom, seems to be in denial to early warning signals the boys
display.
Please share ideas to aid in future treatments available. Mom & dad neither one have relatives
with autism or related disabilities. The boys were
born at 28 weeks gesation.
Thank you!  

Answer
Hi Sandi;

I don't have enough behavioral information to remark on the autism portion. I suggest you download the Checklist for Autism in Toddlers (CHAT) off the internet. It's free and a very accurate indicator of risk for autism. In any case, there may certainly be language delay and both boys should be evaluated for the possibility of autism or other developmental delay. If you live in the U.S., I strongly suggest you make a special education referral to the special services department of the school district in which the boys reside. School districts are responsible for the assessment and service delivery (limited) for children aged 0-21.

If you can provide me with more information regarding their social behavior, eye contact, and the presence or absence of stereotypies (spinning objects, odd finger mannerisms, and/or ritualistic behavior) I may be able to tell you more.

Kind Regards,
James