How was your ASD child when they were 12-24 months old?

[Ifonlyicouldtbt29]

Hello All,

Thanks in advance for reading this. I am just another mum who is quite depressed and anxious about my DS impending Autism diagnosis in the future.

He is only 17 months now but since 9 months I have been ever so worries about his social and communication development that sadly hasn't changed much until now. He has failed most of the screening like ASQ and M Chat. So likely high risk for autism.

I am waiting for my initial SLT appointment on the 28th. Hopefully there is some progress in terms of his early intervention. I am doing what I can to engage him as well at home.

My question is, I know it is pretty far fetched and I know all kids on the spectrum is different from one another, I just wanted to see a clear picture. I am the type of person who wants a plan. Although it is quite unattainable at this point. I just wanted to know how were your DC when they were 12-24 months old. Did they have those rigidities and anxieties already? My DS can still be redirected as of now but he is always on Terminator mode iykwim. Like i want that get out of my way and doesn't seem to listen, know No and empathise.

As of now he doesn't point, show us things and gesture hello or bye. He doesn't have separation anxiety and doesn't turn when his name is called but will look for objects that are asked. ( like where is the light, he will look up to the light fixtures). He repetitively spins his toy cars wheels and no simple pretend play. He doesn't have any words and hand leads us to the things he want. Also a lot of sensory seeking. Plus a lot more other signs.

I always pray that his issues wouldn't escalate or something. I just want to know what to expect, like when did their other issues come out? After 2 years or at 3? What are those issues that surfaced?

Sorry if I offended some with my post. I just feel so scared and lost. It's so overwhelming those EHCP, SEN, DLA, tribunal etc I have browsed in here.

Thanks so much for your time. X

[chickensarethebest]

I like a plan of action, too - the illusion of control . So, a list of things we have used that you might like to explore:

Hanen - It takes two
SALT - weekly sessions
NAS - local group and website for support
Swimming and soft play for sensory input
Something Special dvds - I love Mr. Tumble
ABA - I didn't use it - discovered it too late but know people who swear by it
Outdoor play equipment - those spinny things in the play ground, hammocks, climbing equipment
Lego and minecraft
An iPad
Does Portage still exist?

At this age, DS2 was a limpet and I carried him everywhere.

And then, don't forget to look after yourself. Is there anyone that your DS is comfortable with - or probably that you trust? Can you do something regularly for yourself?

[2boysandadog9]

I was in your shoes about year ago, when DS was 18-20 months I realised that he wasn't developing typically and was most likely on the spectrum.
Not knowing is the hardest thing, but unfortunately every child is different and will change so much in the next few years it's hard to predict.
Between 12-18 months I was only really worried about his lack of language. DS was very chilled, ate well, slept well. He loved peekaboo and chasing games but never moved forward from them. Looking back there were things I hadn't picked up on. He would interact well but only on his terms, pushed or pulled me to what he wanted, no pointing or gesturing, rarely answered to his name and wasn't following basic instructions.
Your DS is very little and it's great you have noticed his issues so early. We had a referral from the HV and GP for salt and an assessment in May last year, has the assessment in December and got our dx of ASD.
I wouldn't expect much from the NHS in terms of therapies, the waiting lists are very long... but there is plenty you can do at home with him.
I second chickens recommendations, and just getting on the floor and playing with DS. It was hard at times when you are not getting much back, but it gets better.

DS is now almost 2 and a half and he has changed lots, still no words but his attention and interaction with us is much better. He is a funny and happy little boy and I feel more comfortable with not knowing the future, it's still hard but I just try and enjoy today!!!

[Ifonlyicouldtbt29]

Thanks so much 2boys for your reply. I guess our DS are quite similar in terms of their signs and I am happy to hear that his attention and interaction with you has gotten better.

He is the same, all on his terms, if he is finished with you, that's it. Can't get anymore until he needs you. It's really hard to not connect with your son. It's heartbreaking every day. It's always waiting for a miracle. But for sure he's going to be diagnosed.

I am doing what I can to engage and play with him but i am just scared that he will get out of control in the future. But yes, we will never know until we get to that part.

[Ifonlyicouldtbt29]

Thanks chicken for your reply. I have purchases the Hanen book and will try to absorb it. I will also do your other suggestions. It's just that it's so hard with all these negative thoughts and anxieties.

[Ifonlyicouldtbt29]

Thanks zzzz. I am glad to hear that he's doing well and your handling the struggles well. I hope it's going to be the same with my DS.

Thanks for the inspiration.

[SamCrawley]

Hello everyone,
I am desperately looking for an ABA Tutor for our 3.5 year old son
He is already in an ABA programme , but we need an additional tutor.
We are based in West Sussex - Crawley

Many Thanks
Sam

[chickensarethebest]

Ifonly - it is tough, very, at times. Zzz is right - there is total joy, too. MN helps but you need the same sort of understanding in RL, too.