Hello
We are looking at an autism diagnosis for my child, who is 2. Says few words, no pointing or much waving, lots of running up and down and flapping, pushes other kids away. We are on the waiting list and have been told we will get a diagnosis probably. We are very worried, my mother less so (I have two autistic siblings, one very severe, so her benchmark is quite extreme).
Amidst the “red flags” there are lots of promising signs of progress - eye contact, good understanding, games, sense of humour, desire to engage with us (cuddles, books, songs and play), learning hand gestures to songs, no real sensory or routine issues to speak of, protests but not massive meltdowns. Lots of babbling and a few words breaking through. Child was also premature so milestones have been a bit off, but smiled on time and has always responded to faces. Was so social as a baby that we didn’t think there was anything to worry about.
I suppose what I’m asking is, in your experience, does autism that is obvious early on always mean severe autism? Or could my child still learn to talk and even live independently?
I want to manage my expectations, but I also don’t want to live without hope. I know some autistic people didn’t talk until quite late.
Thanks