For parents of autistic sons, how did you come to know your son was autistic

[sarahhoping]

At what age was he diagnosed.
What signs were a red flag
My son is 2 yrs old , not speaking 2 word sentences yet . He often doesn't listen whenever I call out his name, sometimes he does though if I repeatedly call it out.
I fear what if he's autistic. How wud I know

Evening, OP. Just bumping this for you. Hopefully someone is about now who might know more.

My son didn't show any signs until he was older so I can't be much help, sorry.

You could use the MCHAT screening test online which is designed for toddlers and very young children.

Have you spoken to your GP or health visitor, or to your son's nursery if he goes to one, about your concerns? Those are good starting points if you are worried about him.

At 2 I had no idea. He was diagnosed just before secondary school. Have you had his hearing checked? The things you say make me think more of possible hearing issues.

My LO is almost two and it’s been suggested that he has autism and I’m feeling overwhelmed. We have a referral to a paediatrician and he has been seen by SaLT.

He rarely responds to his name
Doesn’t imaginary play
Doesn’t play with toys in the typical way
Has never said any words
Doesn’t understand simple instructions

He has been to have his hearing checked three times and has been referred to an audiologist surgeon who will be discussing further steps as they’re concerned about his hearing too.

He’s absolutely wonderful 💕 I love being with him and I worry so much about his future because I don’t seem to be helping him to progress at all 😭

I only realised at age 5 when he started school with a bang! That was a stressful time!

He is 12 now and doing very well at school, thanks to the understanding and support that the diagnosis led to. He is very happy and proud to have autism.

@SuperSleepyBaby proud of ... ??!! What exactly.

Individuals with ASD process information differently to those who are “neurotypical”. They see the world differently and are highly intelligent in their own way, though society has a ways to go in seeing that and fully supporting that. Absolutely wonderful her DS is proud, as he should be.

Of course he should be proud, he sounds lovely and bright. Not sure why you would respond like that, and to someone trying to help you