Autism?

Autism is a very very big spectrum. Why do you think your baby has it?

Yes, my little boy is being referred for an assessment as it's been noted by paediatricians he's showing significant early signs of autism since 9 months. If you need support or advice don't feel bad about reaching out to people x

They don’t really diagnose until after 2 but why do you think your baby has it? It’s a huge spectrum and a lot of things are actually normal that people think is autism

Not my September baby but my toddler I noticed when she was small, at the time everyone said you can't possibly know, guess what, I was right 😂 trust your instincts, worst case scenario they're not autistic but they've just been well supported!

My advice would be reach out for support from a medical professional if you are worried. I definitely agree to trust your instincts if you believe that your child may be autistic, you are their biggest advocate and if you think they need support go for it! I also think there's so much more awareness now and a lot of information online which is great but I think it can sometimes cause people to worry unnecessarily, especially if they don't have a good understanding of autism or if the information is incorrect. I do totally understand it's difficult and can be so worrying! I am neurodivergent and have family members that are, so it is possible that my son will be too as there is a strong genetic link.

@Nicole what were these signs?

@Hannah from his appointment with his paediatrician a couple months ago it's been noted signs are; unusual movement with fingers, hands & feet, strong genetic link (my 2 younger brothers & 1 sister all have autism) doesn't meet milestones - e.g. waving, clapping etc & just about getting there with sitting but still very unsteady and falls, lack of words e.g. used to say 'mum' and knew who I was (so saying it meaningful) but no longer says it, very poor eye contact, bangs his head, likes to scrape his teeth across things continuously, certain foods he loved he no longer goes near/refuses to eat them, reacts to certain sounds, doesn't respond to name, never engages with other babies/children - plays independently with particular toys (mainly ones that spin) - those are from the top of my head but his paediatrician was concerned when seeing him and put in a referral just after turning 1