Worried my son may be autistic?

[LilTq]

I'm not sure of the signs of autism but my son is not a normal 2 yr old. He is very smart for his age and has an animal fetish, he loves to learn, yet has problems talking. He uses mostly body language to communicate which is very frustrating. He stacks things constantly and lines up his toys. They have to be in a certain order all the time. He loves other kids, but doesn't play well with them. Punishing him for doing wrong DOES NOT WORK. When he does talk its normally just repeating what was said to him (very jumbled up). Most of the time he doesn't respond to his name, it's like hes ignoring me all the time. He sits in the floor and rocks a lot and stares at a blank wall like hes looking through it( this is constant and annoying). Everything has to be his way or no way. He is only attached to me and my mother and he only listens to my mother. He is an extremely picky eater. His temper is uncontrollable, he hurts himself when he is upset. And the simplest things set him off. He throws himself into walls and coffee tables, he screams until hes to worn out to do it anymore. He does not listen to me and loves to tell me no. He also has a weakened immune system and is sick alot of the time. My mother suggested he might be autistic because developement problems run in our family very heavy. My son is also hyper active. Could he be autistic? I'm very worried about him the things he does are not normal for his age.

[Jaylor24]

take him to a developmental and behavorial pediatrician or pediatric neurologist..they are the only ones who can give him a clinical diagnosis that will help him to get any services he needs.  you should also have him evaluated through early intervention, that is from ages birth -3...he could also qualify  for a special ed pre school when he is of age.  Having an actual diagnosis helps alot.  You might want to do some research on PDD NOS...just google it.  what state do you live in?

[specialmom]

Hi,  yes, something could be wrong.  Have you spoken to your child's doctor about these concerns.  They can direct you to your local help me grow, head start programs for an evaluation.  You then may qualify for services such as speech and occupational therapy.  I'd do this asap.  Early intervention can make such a difference with these kids!!  Good luck