I have a 4 1/2 boy who has had behavor problems since about 1 yr old and wounder if he could have autism. He is always on the go, hard for him to conertrate, very emotional at times, obseesed on what he eats, drinks,watches,people he likes, every thing has to be the same as it was the day before, has trouble sleeping, has no sense of danger,his speech is off and hard to understand him at times, gets upset easy and throws fits often, just woundering if he could have autism, hope to here from someone so i know if to get him help or not
My 3 year old was diagnosed with autism last year. He had (and still has most) of the symptoms that you are concerned about. He only eats a small variety of foods, everything has to be the same day in and day out, his emotions seem to change drastically from one moment to the next, my son talks now but not very much meaningful speech. I mean I could go on and on. Not all autistic children have all of the same symptoms but for the most part they all have to stick to the same routine or there is heck to pay.
Other things that I noticed in the beginning that had me concerned was my child seemed to be digressing. It appeared as if he was developing normally, but the little things that he would do and say at about 13-15 months, it seemed as if he didn't know how to do those things any more. He lost some of his words and began babbling. He also started out of the blue walking on his tip toes. He also appeared to be avoiding eye contact with people. I use to think that there was something wrong with his hearing because he would never respond to his name. He wouldn't wave bye when I would leave home or take him to day care. He has never played with other children. He has never played with toys appropriately or followed an object visually.
I noticed all of these things and began talking to his doctor about him possibly being autistic at about 18 months. I googled his symptoms and he fit the bill exactly to a T. His doctor performed an assessment in the office and as I expected he failed it. He was then referred to Early Childhood Intervention (ECI) in which he started receiving occupational therapy, behavioral therapy, speech therapy, as well as a nutritionist. Prior to ECI I had never experienced my son smiling at me or giving me eye contact.
I'm not going to pretend that the journey was easy because I cried like crazy once I figured out what was wrong with my son, but knowing exactly what it was that was causing him to act that way made me feel hopeful. It's going to take a lot of work and time to help your son get where he needs to be but once he gets there you will see how worthwhile it all was.
Good Luck, it WILL get better!!!
Feb 11, 2012
posible autism 4 1/2 yr old child by: Rhea
Hi, I teach a 2nd gr. autism class. I would take your son to his pediatrician right away and tell of your concern. Ask for an assessment. With autism, early intervention is best. If he is autistic, there are services (ABA - for behavior, speech, occupational therapy, regional center - for parents, and other resources) he would qualify for that are most beneficial when started early. Seriously, I would do this as soon as possible as it is in your son's best interest, as well as your family's.
