Need a little bit of advice re: early autism diagnosis

[Dr Spouse]

It does not sound like he is nodding in context, and to point effectively you more or less have to check back to the person you want to pay attention, does he do that? And is the waving when someone says "bye-bye" or when they wave? Or just randomly?

I have to say the repetitive behaviours worry me more, especially if there is no other type of play, but it's the communication that usually worries parents.

[lauranne]

My DS is Autistic. If you were my SIL I would have taken major offence if you even suggested that my child was less than perfect.

But when he got diagnosed it was such a bolt out of the blue. When I rang my Mum and In laws, they all said they had suspected but they didn't want to upset me. I really wish they had.

I'm not saying of course that you should blast in and announce your suspicions. But maybe a gentle easing approach towards the HV.

[Elvisola]

Thanks everyone who responded to my thread. It appears my SIL may be a Damsels lurker :whoops:

Either way my brother called last week to ask if I suspected nephew to be autistic and if so what the next step is.

I asked what their concerns were, rather than telling him what mine were and he repeated most of what I wrote above and then booked a GP appointment. The GP has concerns but has asked them to go back when he is 2 if he still isn't talking.

So, thanks all - will keep you updated