Autism?

[MHensley1975]

My son is 22 months old. 1 year ago he could say mama, dada, and bite. Now all he can say is a long drawn out mom, bi for bite and baw for ball. He doesnt say dada anymore. He flaps his hands when he is excited. He does not play with other children at daycare, they said if they left him alone with blocks all day he would be fine. He has little things he likes to do like touch my arm and then his dads while eating. He is obsessed with dora and can stand in front of the tv and watch for hours if i let him. Loves to spin things. I am worried. My husband things Im crazy and he is just slow like the other boys in his family. What do you think? Thank you...

[Robbie Lee]

My husband is also in denial about our sons disabilities.  Believe me this puts alot of stress on my as I am the one that must advocate for my son alone.  I also spend much time arguing with my husband because he does not believe anything I tell him about my sons condition and comes up with excuses for our child behaviors.  Stay strong and good luck to you!  I know it is very difficult, but you are the one who must make sure your childs needs are met!

[kaie]

also sounds like your son's problems may be genetic.  Autism is sometimes genetic.
Good luck with your appt, and on getting your husband to wake up

[kaie]

My 6 yr old son was diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder last year. I would definately say that your son is showing strong signs of aspergers syndrome. I totally agree with j1217's comment.
trust your instincts.

[MHensley1975]

Thank you so much for your reply... All I have been doing is worrying... Early Intervention is doing his evaluation on Friday and he has a appt with a specialist in november, but my husband is in complete denial that there is even a problem. I want him to get all the help he can asap... But hubby dont want to go to the appt in nov. says waste of time (2 1/2 hour drive). I will continue to fight for my son and his future and hubby will have to just deal with it! :) thanks again....

[jj1217]

My son was diagnosed with PDD-NOS (on the autism spectrum) at the age of 2 so I know about your fears and the first thing I would say is trust your instincts.  First, I would have him evaluated by Early Intervention to see if he is eligible for services - this saved my son.  He started Early Intervention at 18 months (speech delay,liked to spin wheels and could sit in front of the Wiggles all day), he was diagnosed 6 months later but due to extensive in-home therapy from the age 2 to 3 he is doing amazingly well.  He will be 4 in November and he doesn't spin wheels anymore, he talks in 4-5 word sentences and plays with toys appropriately.  He still has an articulation problem and likes to visit every bathroom in the mall but beyond that he is great!  

It does not hurt to have him evaluated and in the end it could make a big difference.  Early intervention is the key and it is what I am convinced saved my son.