Is this Autism?

Question

A friend of mine has a 4 year old son who behaves unsually;
He doesn't talk although he undersatnds what everyone is saying to him he just doesn't speak.
Also he does n't like to make eye contact with people.
He is obsessed with keeping things tidy and organised which i think is unusual.
He gets fascinated by simple things like leaves and branches instead of playing with toys.
Is this normal? Although the doctor said theres nothing worng with him i still think he could be autistic?

Answer 1

Please tell your friend to to self refer her child to see a child psychologist via her GP for further testing. An early diagnosis (if it is autism) will prevent alot of upset and heartache for both her and her child later on. My child was diagnosed with Autism and ADHD last year age 7 and he had his life made very miserable by teachers at his previous mainstream school because he didn't have a diagnosis, so they treated him as a naughty child for 3 school years which lead him to have low self esteem and lack confidence. My son was refered many times but as a parent you know if there is something different with your child and its a case of getting the right people to to assess your child and knowing that your gut instincts are correct. Please contact the National Autistic Society helpline 08450704004 they are open 10am - 4pm you can ring them and speak to someone who knows autism about your concerns. Or online at www.nas.org.uk Your friend is very lucky to have a someone who cares about her and her child and wants to help!!!! Hope this information has been of use xx

Answer 2

Sounds like some form of autism. Especially if he is 4 y/o and still exhibiting these characteristics with no change. My younger cousin is autistic, and he began displaying symptoms around the age of 2. He started talking and babbling and interacting, and then he just stopped after a few months. He's 11 now, and he's made a lot of progress with speech therapy, and his social skills are a lot better. He can now interact with everyone in the family and talk to us, but he tends to be kind of like a savant (like being able to tell you what day your birthday fell on in 1985 and what day it will fall on in 2016; he also memorizes things like license plates and what make/model your car is).

But a kid can't make this progress until he's been diagnosed with autism. So see a doctor, do some testing, and work on the therapy. Medication is not the only answer for this; it can help, but don't let them force it on you. My cousin doesn't take any medication for any reason, and he is still making progress with development. Good luck.

Answer 3

The truth is i don't know but when iwas a kid i did the same...
I also read encyclopedias and took notes in an exercise book rather than go outside and play with other kids.
I learned so much at a young age it has contributed to me having an IQ of 147 to 187 as i have done two tests.
I have loads of friends so i don't really know...the kid may just see things different...he could be autistic ... he could be normal...he could just like his thoughts...

Answer 4

If your friend is concerned, she could get him evaluated. If he doesn't speak, she could pursue a speech language evaluation. In NY they are free through your school district. Just call the district and tell them you're concerned b/c your son is not speaking. As part of the evaluation process, the child will also receive a psychological evaluation. That would be where the "obsessions" can be discussed. Good luck!

Answer 5

I agree with you although autism has a very wide spectrum so may be aspergers syndrome. Not speaking & avoiding eye contact are classic signs. I suggest your friend takes him to see a child psychologist or a speech therapist not a GP. Both should certainly be able to point her in the right direction

Answer 6

it may be aspergers sydrome which is on the autism spectrum, your friend needs an assessment done by the educational phsycologist for this which can be done through the school. Your friend could also contact the national autistic society for information and advice. Hope this helps.

Answer 7

What you describe could definately be seen as autistic tendencies. If your friend is worried she should try and get someone else to see him, an early diagnosis (if it is autism) could really have a big impact on his life & education x

Answer 8

there is certainly autistic traits in there but the autistic spectrum is wide and varied, get your friend to keep a diary and to ask the child's nursery for a milestone report on his progress.....this can be used as evidence if you demand a second opinion!

Answer 9

Keep an eye on him, and if your friend and yourself are still unsure get a second opinion. Sometimes children just take a while to develop. :-)

Answer 10

it could be autistic continuem tell ur mate to ask i have a child with this and it sounds like it to me tell her to ask the nursery or playgroup what his behaviour is like he maybe borderline autistic not fully blown autism