Is this autism or DV after effects?

[Queenie6655]

So my daughter is 3 and a half

Made very few friends at pre school
Only child
Very few play dates due to covid

Staff said they had no worries

I do worry though
We left extreme violence in the home
So is introverted and can be shy
Slowly taking an interest in other kids but not many friends in pre school

Does take part in groups in her class
No speech delay nothing else delayed

Does it sound possible early red flags for autism ?

She dislikes some labels on her clothes

Good imagination

Just worry about her social skills
Being shy is ok but I do wonder

Maybe not autism, but consider the impact of ACE’s, adverse childhood experiences.

This video is powerful .

The social emotional impact of growing around DV can have such an impact on a child / young person , its fantastic that you’ve noticed something now, deffo seek help - doctors - counselling, Theraputic play etc

My gosh thanks so much

Sounds about right

Every day I wonder

But deep down I think about the past

I couldn't say from the things you mention whether she has ASC or not, but my daughter's behaviour was initially put down to DV experiences and she's since gone on to get a diagnosis (much older than your DD though). It's difficult to diagnose girls sometimes anyway, so her early experiences may complicate things further sadly. Given all the lockdowns and her age I don't think lack of friends at this stage alone would make me wonder about ASC.

Trauma and autism can present very similarly. I would ask the GP for.some help or see what the school can put in. Do remember it is NOT your fault and that you left when you could which means you have given your daughter the best you could x

Considering the fact that she’s only 3 and that half her life has been lived under severe social restrictions I would think that this is to be expected.
3 year olds don’t really have friends. They have children they know. Some they respond to more than others but they’re too little to make those kind of relationships.
Also, some children are just more reserved than others.

Ah these are all so very useful

I think DV
Lockdown

And being an only child prob has an effect here

It's just seeing her peers play so nicely with others worries me
Thankfully school never raised concerns over 8 month periodi asked them many times

I think that the fact you are so aware speaks volumes that whatever it is, or turns out to be that your DD will have the love and support needed for her through you. That is such a huge thing.

You can still speak to your HV so that could be a good point of contact also>

I really hope so

Witb love and care she will do well

Just confused at the moment

But sadly she missed out on so much time with other kids and no siblings at home

Sorry I'm so tired I missed the key info she is 3. As you say there has been lockdown as well as a change of where she lives and family set up before that. Agree with talk with your health visitor but please don't panic, it's early and give it some time

Childhood trauma mimics ASD in a number of ways.

I’d recommend the Facebook group Theraputic parenting. It’s mostly adoptive parents but also parents whose children have experienced trauma in other ways. Also contact women’s aid and see if anywhere local is running “you and me,mum” which is about supporting you to support your child after escaping domestic abuse.

well done for getting out. You did an incredibly hard thing and you will see your dd through this too.

Thank you so so much guys very helpful and much appreciated xxx