Hi to anyone who takes time to read this,
My 2.5 year old DS displays some atypical behaviours from time to time which worries me about there being a deeper issue or possible autism.
- Makes only fleeting eye contact with people outside his known circle and is inconsistent even with household members.
- Is very moody and doesn't always respond to unknown people who ask him questions or try to initiate conversation.
- Is not easily impressed by small things.
- Has a short attention span and tends to go off-topic when interacting.
- Is not as independent in self-care but will do it if nobody comes to help.
- Can do parallel play but not much of engaging play with kids his age.
- Interested in learning new things but likes to do things his own way instead of being instructed to do something.
Things he does that are typical for his age.
- Understands most things you say to him in two languages (we are bilingual) and follows 9/10 instructions.
- Is generally calm and has only occasional meltdowns.
- Is very aware of his surroundings and observant of any new changes.
- Has a good vocabulary and can answer in 2-3 word sentences most of the time.
- Is not rigid about any routines and adjusts well to changes eventually.
- Is not affected by loud noises.
- Loves playing with other kids his own age or similar, even if meeting them for the first time.
- Is mostly open to trying to new things without throwing a tantrum.
Could his communication skills be rusty because we use two languages or could there be a developmental problem?
I guess what I am asking of parents of neurodivergent kids or those who are neurodivergent themselves is, whether with all these positives and the possible red flags, could my DS be autistic and what kind of help can I give him to overcome or manage the shortfalls.
Thank you to anyone who takes time to read through this. I really appreciate the help that this community can provide.