18 month old daughter does she show signs of Atism

My daughter is now 18 months she was born premature I was 34 wks. She had to stay in the hospital for a month, she came home on a monitor, lately her behavior has me concerned, she doesn't keep still at all, she's always moving, when she eats, when i read to her she can stay still long enough for me to get threw on page, she's always putting things in her mouth even after taking it away from her, she gets something else, so I'm always chasing her saying stop, no, don't.  She pulls out her barrettes and her earrings even if it hurts her, so she no longer wears them. she cries allot when she's mad she falls out on the floor.I read some where that older mother giving birth increases the child to develop autism I had her at the age of 34, no one in my family has it,and from what i know neither does her fathers family. She started walking at 16 months she repeats everything you say words not sentences yet. she hits allot even if I'm firm and tell her no you don't do that she still does it. I'm concerned pleas give me some advice I plan on talking to her Pediatrician. Thank You. A concerned parent.

[myenzoorka]

At least from the problems you described, she doesn't sound autistic.  She sounds like a fairly normal 18 month old with a need for consistent discipline.  A little late on her walking - but well within the boundaries of proper development for a preemie.  Kids of that age are going to be on the move a lot, they will pull, push, throw, eat things (that's why toys with small, removable parts are recommended for ages 3 and up).  They throw temper tantrums and they repeat words others say to help their language development.  But you should still talk to your doctor when you have concerns.

[dojoandky]

You know best, so trust you instincts.  ALWAYS go with your gut!!  DO you have other kids or nephews/nieces?  Is her behavior like their's at the same age?  That's a good place to start looking for signs and symptoms.  I've worked with kids with autism for 15 years now, and it sounds simliar to what I've seen in the kids I've worked with.  Please go see a D.A.N. (Defeat Autism Now) doctor; most pediatricians will say things like-"She's young, she'll outgrow it, she was a preemie, she'll catch up."  If you suspect something DON'T WAIT!  Thearpy is available for her RIGHT now.  The sooner she gets it, the better the outcome.