Is a baby cuddling a teddy bear an indication that they are showing affection

[Justknowthatif]

My daughter is 11 months she’s started cuddling her teddies. Is this a sign of her showing she cares for things people? Constantly worry as I autism so worry she might have it and would rather spot early signs

Oh Sweetie.

No idea I am afraid. I have a DS with ASD and he always cuddled teddies. (Still does and he is 12). He is also a gorgeous little snuggly cuddly boy with me. (Mostly).

Please do not worry. Even if she does have autism she is still your gorgeous girl.

Also it is a myth that people with autism don't care for others. One of the most painful myths, but I can say mine cares deeply for others and worries and loves others deeply.

Cuddling teddies is showing attachment and she is being comforted. Does she cuddle you ?

I just what her if she does have it to be diagnosed younger then I was. Not being diagnosed till I was 15 really affected my school life.

I don't think you need to keep looking for signs. Have you a health visitor maybe you could. Talk to them about it.

Cuddling teddies could be a sensory thing, maybe she likes the feel and the warmth and the smell.

There's no particular checklist for autism in very little ones, it's usually screened for in the MChat-R around 18 months but that's not definitive, it's just shows there's a possibility.

Please stop worrying, if she's autistic she's autistic, she's still your lovely little daughter.

This is for older children, but it may make you aware of any sensory issues she may have so you can be aware if she's reacting and help her.
www.falkirk.gov.uk/services/social-care/disabilities/docs/young-people/Making%20Sense%20of%20Sensory%20Behaviour.pdf?v=201507131117

I think it is normal for children at about this age to form an attachment to a particular cuddly toy and use it to help soothe/ relax at night etc.
It doesn't say anything really about whether or not your child has ASD but it is a sign of normal healthy emotional development.
Try not to worry too much and just enjoy your little one for who she is.
Plenty of time for any issues to be picked up at nursery age. Unless she does anything very out of the ordinary for her age, I'd just relax and enjoy her for now. You can always ask your health visitor if she thinks their are any signs at her 2 year check.

I just wanted to say, I have crohns disease and I've spent 13 years now on red alert for symptoms of it in my DC so I completely understand how you feel. If your DD does have autism then she's very lucky to have you looking out for her, she'll have a wonderful life.

I do personally think that cuddling a Teddy is showing affection.