So my son is 16 months old. I’ve noticed recently compared to peers he doesn’t say any words. He can say mama and dada and can repeat sounds such as roarrr. He is very loud and always babbling
he was a little delayed in sitting crawling and walking but has caught up now (started walking 2w ago)
he doesn’t point, wave or do any hand gestures apart from clap. He understands some instructions like ‘come here’ , ‘clap for mummy’ ‘stand up’. He doesn’t answer his name no matter how many times you call him. he’s very affectionate, gives everyone cuddles unprovoked. He does things for a reaction for example puts sunglasses on and stands near me so I can praise him. He’s very sociable and plays well with peers. He flaps his hands, covers his ears and shakes his head loads every day. He only eats certain foods, he’s very funny with textures so won’t eat things like pasta , fruit or veg (not just toddler fussiness I’ve offered them every meal since 6m and he touches them and throws on floor) he has good eye contact and engages with me playing peekaboo, row row your boat etc.
today nursery have asked me to contact my HV for a developmental review especially highlighting his communication (I have done this just waiting for them to book me in)
I have thought myself that he may be behind as he doesn’t answer me or say any words, point at thing he wants etc but I thought just like walking he might’ve caught up later on. After researching it’s seeming that these could be autism traits.
i feel a little upset this evening, both of my brothers have autism and really struggled growing up and I’m sure no parent wants their child to struggle.
any advice? Does this seem likely? Is he too young to
tell? Is there anything we can do to support him?
thanks!