My Son is 34 Months and is delayed in Speech and Language. He can say Hiya, Bye Bye (both while waving) he loves saying hello to people & Dogs when we're out. He Say's Da' or Dada sometimes, Go and Come on, but not clearly, babbles constantly while playing with figures but only half says a few other things like good dog, and our dogs name. My biggest worry is the lack of understanding, he doesnt know (or at least show he knows) what you're asking him most of the time. For example, he wouldn't know to get his shoes if you asked him to, or be able to point something out.. he's very much in his own world when it comes to that.. and doesnt instantly respond if you call his name. He does know where everything is, so points out the cupboard his snacks are in if hungry, goes to the fridge if he wants a yoghurt and give you the squash bottle if thirsty etc. He's very happy but the only way he can show it's not what he wants is through frustration or small tantrums. He's very stubborn, hates holding hands after a while if out shopping or walking and hits the deck the moment you try to put reins on him. Another worry I have is he doesn't really share his excitement or interests with me, he rarely brings me a toy to interact with or shows much interest in people like grandparents if they come to visit. He also doesnt make too much eye contact and very rarely stares back at me like a few of my friends toddlers do.. if he's busy playing, he wont stop to show me anything or respond to his name being called. He also rarely imitates movements.. recently stopped clapping
At his 2 year check the HV didnt seem to have any worrys about him, said he seemed just like a happy little boy who wasnt speaking yet. She did put him forward for further assessments as we had shared our concerns (Still waiting for Hearing Test and speech and Language assessment).. at his check up a few weeks ago at the child development centre with a paediatrician, he wouldn't sit down to carry out most of the tasks.. he did complete a simple puzzle and build a tower with blocks, but then wanted to explore the room and try to escape. The Paediatrician said there were a few autistic traits but would say if anything he may be more towards ADHD as he's 'a whirlwind'. She did say a lot could be down to the Speech and Language delay and these things may improve as he starts to understand more. But then said they wouldnt start to say they're non verbal until they're 4! Which after leaving has been playing on my mind.. and just wanted to see if anyone elses little one was similar but caught up with speech etc.. I feel everyone I speak to just tells me what I want to hear, "oh he's a boy they do take longer", "my friends child didnt speak until after they were 3" or "he'll be fine he's just stubborn" etc..
any insight / advice / similar experiences would be greatly appreciated..