Expert: Michelle Fattig - 12/16/2007

Question
Hi,My 19 month old son is speech delayed ,although he babbles a lot and says mama ,babab,aaaaha.the concern is he makes poor eye contact and also he does n't point yethe would grab my hand and takeme where ever he want to go`,does it necessary means he has autism or he is just behind,his hearing test is normal.,We have taken him to see the chiropractic,would the chiropractic be helpful to him.Pleaase advise as I am really concerned.

Answer
At 19 months old, it would be difficult to predict based on developmental milestones alone.  Is there a family history of Learning Disabilities, multiple job changes, difficulty with social interaction, any diagnoses including, but not limited to: OCD, ADD/ADHD, Bi-Polar Disorder, Learning Disabilities, Anxiety Disorders, or problems with self-medicating with alcohol or drugs?  If so, there may be reason for concern.  Since the understanding of high functioning autism and Asperger's was not defined in the DSM-IV until the early 1990's, many adults with the disorder or trait, are misdiagnosed due to a general lack of awareness.  Also, without the right early interventions, the difficulty of living with the untreated and misunderstood disorder causes: anxiety, depression, impulsivity, and difficulty in work and social interactions.  If you recognize any of these traits in immediate or extended family, you can request an evaluation through your local early childhood center, usually associated with your school district, or ask your pediatrician for an M-Chat (you can also download them from a search engine).  Discuss all of the information with your doctor for recommendations.  

http://www.kidsource.com/kidsource/content4/growth.chart/page1.html and www.oasis.com are good reference sites as well