informing a dear friend

I believe a dear freind may have a sweet child that has some form of ASD.   Exhibits multiple characteristic signs & many excuses are made for this dear child.  In the end I know it's the parents that must accept this b4 anything can be done.  How would one inform, without being alienated?  I know this answer, as I've sat by this far & have not been able to be "the one" to metnion.   Teachers have told the parents that "your child has delayed speech & underdevleloped fine motor skills"  Kindergarten teacher has suggested the parents to get child assesed...& parents just make excuses....what does one do??

[ConcordCA]

I am in a very similar situation, except the child is younger & therefore it's not as obvious.  I have a feeling the parents in both our situations know deep down.  Just think... Their children have never met the milestones they should have.  Because your friends child is in kindergarten the problem can no longer be ignored.  The child will eventually be assesed to continue in a class with typical functioning children.  It seems it is too late for "early" intervention so at this point I would just be supportive & let the school be the one to inform the parents.  Good luck whatever you decide!