3yo autistic and so serious

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Hi just wanted to put a bit about my son to see if anyone else has had experienced similar

My son is 3years 4 months and has limited language. He copies words a lot but it's hard to hold a conversation with him.we saw the Paedtrician lately who pretty much said he's autistic and we are now waiting for an official diagnosis. He also mentioned something about my son being delayed in social communication but seemed sure he will speak when he needs to.

My son talks a lot in his own special made up language but says some words. He understands everything and is very helpful around the house.

But he's so serious when we are out and about. If it's nursery or the playground he is happy but if we go to the park or zoo etc he walks around so seriously and it's hard to know if he's enjoying it. But once we are back home he's chattering away again

Any thoughts?

Anyone

Bump

Difficulties with social communication is part of the autism diagnosis. Many autistics report overload, so it might be that when he is out, he is overloaded and this reduces his capacity to talk/engage. However, once home his is calmer and can access those areas of his brain more easily. Would definitely suggested following up for a speech and language therapy referral if they haven't done this for further advice.

Post on overload - www.griffinot.com/what-is-sensory-overload/

@KimGriffinOT we already have a speech therapist it was her who referred us to the Paedtrician

It can be hard to tell at that age, especially if he’s not speaking very much yet. When he’s old enough, you’ll be able to ask him what he likes. You’d probably know if he was really not enjoying it through his behaviour. Maybe, as the other poster said, he’s just overwhelmed and taking it all in. It’s probably still good for him to be there, listening to all the language and being slightly out of his comfort zone though, so I wouldn’t worry too much. You could try teaching him some way of indicating if he’s happy or sad (e.g., giving thumbs up, pointing to a picture of a happy face). You’d probably need to model this first (quite a few times) when you know he is happy/ sad. Hope that helps!