Recognising Autism and what to do next?

[uriyaaz2401]

Hi all,

My son is 32 months (so nearly three years old), and I have come to identify some aspects of his behaviour as .. different.
He doesn't respond to his name, neither does he like story time. He can't sit still for too long. He likes spinning around on the spot. He is almost always expression-less. He doesn't talk but only sings nursery rhymes.

When he was about a year old, he was completely different. He was able to talk in sentences in two languages. He was able to answer the phone. He was always smiling/laughing.

As he's my first, I don't if this is me being over-imaginative and thinking he is autistic? Having said that I would like to get him checked privately as it's a lot quicker than GP referrals.

So can someone recommend a good Paediatrician for checking toddler development and recognising Autism?

Many thanks in advance.

[uriyaaz2401]

Hi Madrigals,

Thanks for your response. I will check the posts on Daphne Keen. Would you know where her Clinic is situated?

[insanityscratching]

If you contact the National Autistic Society they will be able to give you details of specialist diagnostic services. Can recommend the Elizabeth Newson Centre www.norsaca.org.uk/diagnosis-and-assessment

[Rivercam]

I would go to the gp also and get their referral.

[MomOfABeast]

I think what you've said (regression in language, expressionless, lack of reaction to his name) is definitely enough to get a referral. I would approach your GP to see if you can get an immediate referral (don't tie no for an answer) before you go private. Good luck.

[uriyaaz2401]

Thanks for all your responses.

I will be taking him to the Health Visitor for a check up and raising my concerns, and then taking him to the GP and asking for a referral. I keep thinking the whole process will probably take around a month and I don't want to wait that long.

We'll see what happens =/

[choc0clock]

You need a referral to da dev paed. Regression and loss of speech is a big red flag.