Hi All
We have autism on both sides of the family (all three of my nephews are diagnosed, one very severe) and DHs sister has recently been diagnosed in adulthood (very good at masking). From my experience my FIL although in his 70s and not diagnosed appears to have quite obvious symptoms as well!
My 8 month old very rarely makes eye contact- no matter how much we try to interact (and when he does the quality of eye contact is not there). He has just started to babble (but very little), does not respond to his name, does not clap or wave or imitate any gestures/facial expressions of any sort, does not play peekaboo or give kisses no matter how much we try to encourage him
I completely understand that it is way too soon and he will do these things perhaps when he is ready and I should not assume but My DH has always brushed off my concerns. Past week or so DH has been distance from DS- Yesterday begrudgingly he came to me and has said that he's picked up that DS is a bit off compared to other babies his age, he's developing but in a different manner perhaps neurotypically, and he just needed the courage to come end tell me without triggering anything.
For reference - I had some real post partum anxiety he may be autistic when he was younger (late smiler and lack of eye contact) DH would always talk me down so I'm surprised that he has now voiced his concerns to me and it's not all in my head.
I have made peace with the thought of it (not crazy anxious) now however I just want to be the best possible mum and work in early intervention (as I know the nhs has long waiting lists etc and never really take you seriously)
Please could you let me know of any resources I can access by way of building early intervention therapy (such as speech, language and developmental therapy) into everyday play?
I know it's early but I dont see any harm as these things will only help my little one and at least for now I know that despite my suspicions I know I am doing something that could help him?
I really want to enjoy my time with him rather than ruin it by turning into a worrier and watching him like a hawk and waiting till he's 2+ years and then worrying about NHS waiting lists.
Thank you in advance! Xxx