Does this sound like autism?

[turtle2305]

My son is turns 3 in a month and has recently started some odd behaviours. 1)  he covers his ears or jaw area alot (he has always been bothered or afraid of noises like the vacuum cleaner). 2) playing with his tongue with hands or just by itself. 3) keeps the rim of his baseball cap infront of his face so he can't see. 4) arms stiffen when he is excited.  5) lines up cars- but only cars.  He likes other kids and plays alongside them, makes eye contact and is ok with changes in routine.  Does this sound like autism?  thanks

[specialmom]

Oh, with that additional information, please please google sensory integration disorder.  His ability to pretend play is a good indicator that autism is less likely and as the pediatric developmental specialist said he is too social for autism, you should look at what other things it could be.  As he may not be autistic, he may have something else going on.

My son has sensory integration disorder and you mention things that are very similar to my son.  

He is doing great now (my son) after an accurate diagnosis and targeted things to help him.  I'm happy to help if sensory sounds at all like something that could be going on.

Google sensory processing disorder (SPD is a good website).  Sensory integration disorder and sensory processing disorder are the same thing.  

lots of luck and let me know what you think after you google this.  Peace

[turtle2305]

He doesn't respond well to questions but does ask and tell me things.  He does drive cars around and has fed a doll when encouraged.   He was being seen by a child development person until almost a year ago and she had him feed the doll.  She said he was too social to be autistic but could that have changed over 10 months?

[specialmom]

I think you describe things that sound sensory related.  Please google that and see what you think.  

does your son ever do imaginary play?  Take a car and make it 'drive' like a real car for example?

[skepticalpeach]

Autism is diagnosed on a spectrum, so it is definitely possible he could have  a mild form of autism. He may also have another type of developmental disorder, such as sensory integration disorder. I say this because he is sensitive to noises and light. Does he have any trouble with communication? Does he ever stim? IE running around in circles, flapping hands, spinning, saying the same thing over and over. If you are worried I would really recommend talking to your pediatrician and possibly seeing a developmental pediatrician. They are the only ones who can give you a diagnosis.

[indianmommy123]

hi
i have an autistic 3year old boy. we came to know about his autism when he was 1yr 10 month old. I've read many articles about autism. autism is mainly impaired communication and social interaction. in my opinion ur son is completely normal. i think it is normal to play/fiddle with body parts for children of that age. kids generally experiment with vision and hearing. may be he lines up cars to replicate parking lot kind of scene. there is nothing for you to worry.