Pointing and Autism

[sockonmyhead]

I was wondering if anyone can tell me how important not pointing is in diagnosing ASD?

DS2 is 22 months, he has no words and doesn't seem to have much understanding, he doesn't point, doesn't know his body parts and doesn't follow instructions.

He has glue ear and has had episodes in the past when he couldn't hear at all but he seems able to hear at the moment. He babbles constantly, enjoys playing but isn't always interested in playing with others.

We are waiting for a speech and language assesment and I think I will get the health visitor to have a look at him but I want mumsnet's opinion in the meatime.

So...I think my big question is could he be autistic? He seems to change so rapidly from a fun little boy to just ignoring his name and seeming so withdrawn. Sorry this is a bit of a messy ramble!

I want you to know that nothing is set in stone with Autism. It's a spectrum because there is so much variation in what people can and can't do....some children with Autism seem to outsiders to be just the same as other kids...other children may have some "quirks" which are unusual but don't stop them from leading great lives. So don't feel too desparate...the msot important thing is that you have sought help and will get it.