Is my son autistic?

[nana053]

Originally Posted by domino

He doesn't need a label at 4 years old, but he does need early intervention with therapies, etc. to address his developmental delays. The earlier you get started, the sooner you can get him progressing.

Often, you don't get services without the label.

[Oobie119]

I would definitely have him evaluatef by a psychologist.They will perform a series of tests, including a psycho-educational evaluation. Remember that Autism is a spectrum disorder and can vary greatly in degrees. It is primarily a social disorder which could possibly be why he doesn't interpret behaviors the way others do. No one here can diagnose him. All we can do is offer our input. Don't be afraid of a label, and don't doubt his abilities if he come out with a diagnosis of Autism. There are many great resources and educational services if need be : )

[nana053]

Originally Posted by nana053

Often, you don't get services without the label.

That has not been my experience. If the school evaluates him and he has difficulties in academic areas, he will be eligible for an IEP without a label. It depends a lot on the school and the district.

[Oobie119]

Originally Posted by nana053

That has not been my experience. If the school evaluates him and he has difficulties in academic areas, he will be eligible for an IEP without a label. It depends a lot on the school and the district.

If the school evaluates him they wil most likely give him SOME kind of psycho-educational diagnosis, not a medical diagnosis but something to deem him eligible for the ESE program.. Otherwise the evaluation would be pointless. No one should be afraid of a label. Labels do not define their child

[otis987]

I was also wondering if he stems. That was the biggest red flag for us. We had some concerns early, but he started stemming and humming while running in circles at 4 years old. Even then, the doctors weren't sure and would not diagnose him.

Don't give up. The best advice I ever got was "the squeaky wheel gets the oil." Go with your gut. No one wants to label your child, even doctors. The schools told me I needed to relax, and his pediatrician said he was just "quirky." Finally I video taped him for several days and put it all together with subtitles. I sent it to the school and to his doctors. I got a call immediately to bring him back in. He was diagnosed within a week with PDD-NOS.

It is difficult for anyone to know when they only get a small glimpse of your child in a Dr. office, especially if he/she isn't severe. It is going to be up to you to get the answers you want.

Also, remember to focus on the strengths of your child rather than the struggles, which is sooooo hard to do. Hang in there and good luck