how can i find out if my 9 year old son is autistic and what are the signs?

Question

my son has very high intelligence but comes across as stupid, can concentrate mumbles with his head down stares into space all the time and has done from birth dont know the proper steps or channels to get this investigated
denise

sorry cant concentrate

Answer 1

you should see this chart:

http://www.elainechen.com/illustration/assets/autism.gif

Answer 2

At least in the United States you just need to put a request for evaluation into your school psychologist. They can choose to deny the request but if there is a question of autism and he is struggling in school it is likely they will do the evaluation. Many medical facilities now have autism diagnostic clinics also so it maybe worth checking in with the pediatrician. Also make sure they test in all areas of suspected disability. That is the complete specific measures related to autism, social skills, pragmatic language etc. Ask specifically for formal and informal observations both in the classroom and during social time such as lunch or recess. The A-DOS is considered the gold standard assessment for autism, but not all districts have the experience to administer it. If your child is intelligent and he is passing all of his classes and they just do an IQ and achievement test they will not show any real deficits and he will not qualify for any assistance. He may or may not have autism but you need a thorough assesment to rule it out as well as possible uncover other potential problems related to his current difficulties.

Answer 3

Does he have sensory issues? Many people with autism cannot stand the feel of certain textures or are sensitive to light and sound. Does he have social issues? Most people with autism are not as able to discern proper social etiquette, such as knowing how to take turns, tell good-bye when finished with a conversation, etc. A good place to start is to document all of the areas he has difficulty with at home, school, church. Be specific.
The inability to concentrate and mumbling could be inidicative of ADD. ADD/ADHD and autism share many common characteristics. The above items are more attuned to autism alone. This is why I suggest documenting all areas of difficulty as it will make it easier to diagnose the problem.
ADD/ADHD can be diagnosed by a doctor of medicine. Autism should be tested by a psychologist. You can request your child be tested at school if his academic performance and socialization are affected by his behaviors.
Good luck!

Answer 4

Hi, there are many signs of autism and, there are some things that are noticed in autistic individuals which are an individual does that not relate or is antisocial and may be able to decode formulas but; not be able to hold a conversation. There is a great web-site that may also assist you with many questions you may have. I wish you luck.
ls

Answer 5

my son has autism he is now 15yrs we found out at the age of 10yrs i had many fights,protests and sitting in hospital waiting rooms for up to 6hours untill someone told me i was not going mad,my son has all the signs very high intelligence could read music sheets even though he cant play an instrument,he is fantastic with art,maths he adores just tryed doing an a level paper at school and surprised us,but his social skills are nil,he has no idea of feelings or understanding expressions on peoples faces he is reserved and likes his own company,at school he feels safe but he will be leaving soon and that is going to be very testing for him.The school should have picked up on this and might be able to do something or put you in the right direction,as for us we have had to do it all no help from school they just say that he is doing fine with his work,but hey he will be out of the education system soon and wont be their problem anymore utterly disgusted with everybodys attitude to him but you might see differently i do so hope so for your sake you will need it as for us we just plod along and will always be there for my son no matter what autistic children have a special gift so treasure it tight to your heart,best of luck.

Answer 6

Check with your local hospital, like if you have a Children's Hospital in your area, or something similar to that. They will probably be able to point you in the right direction, if they can't test him themselves.

A few signs may be shying away from social activities, and a great interest in one thing. For instance, my autistic stepbrother is really into anime and other things like that, and he memorizes lines from cartoons, etc. Also, does your son have one thing that he does a lot? Like makes some sort of noise or paces or something? It kinda sounds like Tourettes, but it's how autistic children/teens "deal" with it.

Answer 7

A pediatric neuropsychological evaluation will be the BEST kind of information and testing you can get along with a report showing what kind of accommodations, modifications, and related services your child will need as a result of his diagnosis/diagnoses.
Pop over to ivillage.com's message boards. There are a few for parents of Autistic children and special needs children. It's the best support!!!

Answer 8

If alarm bells are ringing in your head speak to the school Special Educational Coordinator, his teacher or the head. They can offer you support and advice that would be morehelpful as they know your child better than us net people :)

They may be able to do observations, contact appropriate support agencies and get the ball rolling to provide the best support!
If the school is no help speak to your GP, they can put you in contact with educational psychologists who can asses your child.
GOOD LUCK X

Answer 9

i think (i have an autistic son also) that if he had this condition then school would have picked up on it by now- i knew when my son was 1 year old but he didnt get diagnosed until he was 7 years old-first u speak to his school then you speak to your gp- no 2 kids are the same it may just be that your son has these little quirks-but at 9 i would have thought definitely the school would have worries/opinions on it by now

Answer 10

some of the signs of autism are 1. not making eye-contact a lot 2. interest in one subject 3. not understanding social cues 4.over or undersensativity to senses

Answer 11

Have him evaluated by a pediatrician and school.My 8 year old is borderline autistic--very intelligent,but has the verbal capacity of a 4 year old,and has sensory issues as well.