18month old lacking communication

[gemini1719]

Hi all, I guess I come on here to hopefully find someone who may be in or have been ina. Similar situation to me right now , I guess I just want someone to talk to. My youngest son, just 18months, lacks communication. To the point I am starting to feel worried now. He has no words, he rarely babbles and if he does it is the same 'uh' noise. He doesn't like to make eye contact (never voluntary anyway) I have to really push and get in his face for him to look at me (for 0.1 seconds) , he really doesn't recognise his name, I can call and call and nothing. He doesn't 'show' me anything , toys etc or point to things he wants.

Working with children who have learning difficulties & autism.. it is hard for me not to see some 'red flags' but I also don't want my job to blur my vision & maybe he just needs time. I'm in contact with the HV and Gp about this but in the current times.. there's nothing really happening. Has anyone been in or is currently in a situation like me? I've accepted in my head that there may be something there, possible ASD, but my heart still hurts as I want to do the best for him NOW. Thanks for listening , one worried mama x

If your worried it's always best to speak to your health visitor/gp which is what you've done. Hopefully they can reassure you, keep an eye on him and make the necessary referrals if they see it's need.

Don't panic, he's only 18 months old. A lot can change in a very short amount of time with little ones. Does he follow simple instructions? Keep talking to him, reading to him, using simple language, point to things yourself in books and the real world. It's highly likely that he just needs more time, it real isn't uncommon.

I understand the worry though. Ds has significant communication issues but it's certainly not been the end of the world.

Hi, this sounds like a difficult situation for you! It's frustrating when you're worried and things aren't moving like you want. I agree with the previous comment about checking in with your health visitor, and that nothing is certain and lots can change- that's great advice.
I'm a Speech and Language Therapist and run a blog, so I've linked to my post on things you can do as a parent to boost language: www.happierwithtea.com/boost-speech-and-language/ These are things that build language naturally in everyday life. I'd love your feedback if you do have a chance to check it out. I'm a new blog so appreciate any comments/ shares etc.
However, given what you've mentioned about eye contact, I wondered if you have ever heard about Social Routines? This is basically a strategy of doing predictable/ repetitive games with your child that have a strong social element. Because they're the same every time, your child can start to learn their 'role' within the game. You can also change the game a tiny bit once they have learnt it, so they can see change. Examples of these games are things like 'round and round the garden' but it can be any game at all- anything that is a short fun routine that can become a game- popping bubbles, 123 tickle, chasing games- pretty much anything sensory and predictable. The goal is to build imitation skills, social skills, communication skills, and language skills, and for your child to become aware of your facial expressions, voice and gestures. This could be something for you to try out- just a sort, sweet play routine that lasts about 30 seconds and where you say the same thing every time with a fun end. I don't have a post on this, so sorry for the long-winded explanation!! I hope it helps. All the best with everything!!
Freya

Hi,
I wonder where you are at now?
Love to get some updates please