The Early Signs of Autism

Tessie was diagnosed with autism when she was eighteen months old, and today I talk about the five top early signs that we saw that let us know that we needed to have her evaluated at a young age so that she could start getting the extra supports that she needed to live her best life. From a lack of eye contact to communication difficulties I tackle the biggest signs that we saw with both of our girls, bringing up our own experience especially for parents who might be asking if what they're seeing in their own toddlers is normal toddler behavior.
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Welcome to Someday I'll Sleep, formerly Coffee and Cupcakes! We post family vlogs daily, about our lives and because we have two daughters on the spectrum we post quite a bit about autism! You'll get glimpses of what's going on at the moment in our lives, usually in a little town in Michigan, or in the city that Paul works in and where we have about a million therapy sessions each week.
Paul and Cammie (the dad and mom at Coffee and Cupcakes) have 5 children. Sadie is 10, Maggie is 8, Patrick is 5, James is 3, and Tessie is now 2!
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If you'd like to help us translate and transcribe our videos we would appreciate it so very much! With 5 kids and lots of therapy appointments Cammie doesn't have very much time left over after she finishes editing videos so transcribing is slow going around here! kzbin.info_cs_p...
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[@pennykeller3048]

My son was diagnosed with PDD-NOS at two in a half years old. He had speech therapy and occupational therapy and now he is 18 years old and a graduate from high school. He has a job, he was in the military and he is talking about college. I'm so proud of him.

[@sidjohnson1616]

I had to have speech therapy at 7 years old i couldn't talk very well

[@phyllisanngodfrey6137]

This shows there can be progress over time with early intervention. You should be proud with him and of him ❤️👍🏻

[@jeanguerrero8305]

PDD-NOS is somewhat “high functioning” right? It’s good to see/ hear positive outcomes. Early detection is crucial.

[@michaezell4607]

@@jeanguerrero8305 This was the same diagnosis that I received in childhood and throughout my school years. It wasn't until around 2008 that I underwent an evaluation as part of the process for applying for social security benefits that I received my diagnosis of ASD. I'm now approaching the age of 50 in a couple of months so it was definitely a relief to have a proper diagnosis although support programs for adults on the spectrum in my area are really lacking. Sure there's plenty of support for children in the region but next to nothing for adults I'm afraid.

[@amattu8347]

Mums like you truly make the world a better place

[@dirtysanchez941]

My parents, mostly my mother punished me my entire life. I'm 56. She has only made me feel pain for being on the autistic spectrum. I'm not saying this as self pity. I just want people to know that we are very smart, we learn differently. Punishment from the mother is the most horrible thing. It makes it harder to take help when you feel worthless. I recently learned it's never too late because more and more people are learning about the autistic spectrum. I also learned my mother is a covert narcissist by a doctor. It helped me to understand it wasn't my fault. You are a wonderful mother. Wonderful! And your children are going to be happy, adjusted and will have good lives ahead as well. Thanks to your love, care, unselfishness and time spent with them. Much love to you all.

[@manaoharsam4211]

You are a fine person. It is how God sees you lovely, you are so dear to him. They say Einstein could have been autistic. Seeing your post I can see why anybody cannot like you.

[@foxfirelabradors5939]

I’m 65, diagnosed at 61. Whether they knew anything about autism or not, there was no excuse for the viciousness that I experienced at my mother’s hands. She is also a narcissist, not covert at all though. I understand you.

[@marybethrice2208]

@@dianeaiken8826 pop

[@susanpenkala2713]

Hmm. . Im 61. Videos like this 1 teach us and its great. I watched because a nephew is full spectrum autistic. He waves instead of saying hello. He bows or rocks in front of a stove. Hes 36. He has water issues. Takes long showers. OCDs with hand washing. His "job" is to wash dishes at home. Im here to see the 5 signs due to a granddaughter. Apparently my gdaughter is low spectrum autistic. Shes 4 and had speech therapy at 2. Thanks for sharing. 🙂 She dont answer to her name too often..but its ok.

[@debishaw9355]

@@dianeaiken8826 , I’m making a statement for forgiveness. Of course there is no excuse for verbal or physical abuse whether you’re autistic or not. You need to forgive the person who abused you.. it’s hard but it can be done. I’m living proof. I did it for me, not the abuser. It will eat you up inside if you do not forgive. My sis died 3 years ago at age 59 because of it. I miss her

[@carolinehollisallrightsres6663]

My daughters coming up 21 no speech no balance no motor skills no eye contact totally floppy no school 247 care no diagnosis shes so content I am blessed to have her shes my life 😇💚

[@sunshine9122]

Caroline, God bless you and your daughter.😊❤

[@missivonne]

My daughter loved to stack and line toys up; she also didn't have imaginative play for years and years. She's 32 now, and a college graduate so there's hope.

[@charlielanguellholt3877]

Hello how are you doing 👋😀☺️☺️

[@BlueBlossomsBlues]

Thank you!

[@amybennett3175]

Yvonne Rovira what age did your daughter start to talk? My son is 2 and got diagnose with autism last week. He is non verbal and doesn't play with toys or make eye contact and I'm worried that he may never talk.

[@missivonne]

@@amybennett3175 Let me talk about my daughter Alex first. Alex didn't REALLY talk so you could understand her 100% without me translating until after kindergarten. At age 2, Alex could say "Kitty, cookie (priorities!), shoes (you go places when you have shoes on, LOL!), up, down." She said 1,2,3 and A,B,C, but that was just echolalia. My daughter Laura didn't start talking really at all until maybe 1st grade. At the beginning of second, 1/3 of what she said even I couldn't understand. It sounded like how Minions talk. No kidding. I got her piano lessons, and by the end of the year she was talking much, much better. Contct me on FB. I could have used someone who had been there when the girls were young. (Lots of tears!)

[@linelatimore94]

@@amybennett3175 Hi Amy, my son is 2 & a half is not talking…We haven’t got an official diagnosis, but I’m 100% sure it’s Autism. How is your daughter now? Is she talking now?

[@karenmerritt182]

My first child is on the spectrum, he is 27 now. He exhibited most of the same behaviors as your daughter. Give her plenty of love and support. Life is harder for them, they need your devotion

[@carriegeorge1550]

I wasn't diagnosed until age 28, but I can remember that I used to line up all the shampoo and lotion bottles in my grandma's bathroom and imagine they were a family and I was arranging them oldest to youngest. I also hated to be touched and didn't give much eye contact vas a kid. I still don't like touching and eye contact, but I force myself to do it, so I can be "normal.". The good news is that I have done well for myself and love my career as a scientist.

[@daniellewills8335]

You are “normal”! 💖❤️

[@adacasas511]

Autism spectrum is Darwinian in the evolution of our species, perhaps.

[@rls4072]

It takes Time and Energy to Share Your Experiences with People that have concerns regarding autism. You're Extraordinary, You're Kind and Caring, Please know how Grateful, filled with Appreciation we are! Your Family is Beautiful!

[@liencao9536]

I have read a short story written by a mom like you. She was happy with her autistic child as her other smart daughter and son left their nest and never came back, this child stopped developing after 5 years of age and always looked up at her with unconditional love. Be strong for both of you

[@20greeneyes20]

Your children are in great hands. You seem really on top of their well being. Wishing all the best for your family.

[@latoyamvp4562]

Wow my daughter was premature the Umbilical cord was wrapped around her neck three times... she was the perfect lil baby she gave me eye contact she was Very newsy. But Once she turned one I notice her speech wasn’t good she would say big words like “ Elephant or a telephone” but not cup or milk. She wasn’t responding to her name at all she will keep playing. She mad noises all day long. I took her to the doctors and she Ignore them when they they call her name. So I Decided to get her help right away. It was hard at first I’m a full time working mom so I barely had time to work with her only on weekends and that wasn’t enough time in my eyes. She started speech classes right away and started daycare. She started to come around I let her watch learning shows all day and I sing and play with her while she’s watching tv. When she was turning two the pandemic hit I’m working from home. And now my little baby know more then 100 words she improved so much. She still make noise and talk. But she can’t tell me what she want she will come get me and take me to what she wasn’t. And I will ask her what do you want and if she can’t tell me she don’t get it.. and I tell her that and she start talking lol. Her speech teacher still ask me what did I do to make her talk. Autism doesn’t run in my family but anything can happen And I was determined to fix it. She still need more work But I’m with her every step of the way. Thank you for this video because this was something I really needed to see.

[@growyourlifesong-earthsongfarm]

Thank you for your sharing. Yes we had some of these signs too...particularly play...extreme excitement watching wheels, gears and trains moving. A compulsory stop on shopping day was to go to the toy shop so we could play with one particular train. For several YEARS I regularly spent hours sitting on the floor (with a coffee from next door) while my child pushed the same train around. Thankfully, the shop owners were very supportive. As parents we never know what we are going to receive with the new life we bring into the world. We are blessed by the children we receive and the opportunities for growth they bring to us.

[@oakstrong1]

Thank you for sharing. I work in a kindergarten in a country where children may never get a diagnosis even it becomes obvious that they are different. Rather, they are ignored, because there simply isn't enough awareness of the condition. I am not trained to deal with such children nor there is a special needs teacher to advice me, but I hope that I can recognise each child's strengths and inner struggles better to encourage and support them.

[@tabithameekins8050]

I'm sure you could make a bigger difference than you think you can.

[@cathleenswanson2904]

KZbin could fill in the gaps.

[@Yooncelebtarot]

I am a speech therapist and I work with kids on the spectrum. You are a dream mom. I wish all moms were like you. Tessie and Maggie are so lucky to have you.

[@sarag1158]

I work in an industry with a lot of people that are too old to have received an autism diagnosis as children. They are incredibly frustrating and inflexible in their thinking. On the flip side, I work with a younger guy who is self aware and will tell you he is on the spectrum. While he has bad days, he is amenable to instructions and thinking outside his rigid mindset. Children receiving a diagnosis while young is definitely a blessing.

[@evabellconklin2989]

Thank you for sharing these signs it has really helped me since realizing my son is on the spectrum also. He is turned three this year, and we have been dealing with most of these same signs since he was born too. I am very grateful to have come across your video. It’s very encouraging to know that I’m not the only one with a child like this, and it’s also very encouraging to me to know that they can improve, so thank you.

[@joangrennan886]

I have an autistic niece and the first sign of autism was total lack of eye contact . She was just detached . The spinning and flapping are classic signs . Now 23 years old she is very content and academically quite advanced , She never ever volunteers speech but has plenty of language , She will answer if pressed but has no inclination to give more than standard answers which she has been taught to memorise over the years . She loves the computer and specific Disney cartoons which she can find by herself even though they are quite old and obscure . She loves to bake and is able to wash dress etc but will always need supervision . Your girls are beautiful and you are lovely yourself . You are doing a wonderful job because you are so intelligent and engaged . With you, your girls are blessed

[@MrsXx]

Thank you for sharing this, it brings so much awareness that parents need. I'm glad she's recieving the best of support during schooling.

[@jecka1982]

This is amazing! You could be describing my 3 year old daughter! It's such a relief to hear someone else who has been through the same. You have a new subscriber. Thank you thank you thank you!

[@charlielanguellholt3877]

Hello how are you doing 👋😀☺️👋👋👋

[@brendatroth3860]

You have a long road and fight ahead of you. My son is 28 and autistic. However he graduated from high school with honors. He went first to a Junior College and then to a 4 year University and graduated with a bachelors degree. It took him 8 years to get through the bachelors program due to changing his major. He works full-time and still lives at home with his younger brother who is not autistic. It took me fighting LAUSD for 13 years to get the special needs services that he required to make it in this world. I worked with him on his homework every night after work and on the weekends. My husband and I did not go on any vacations till he was 12 years old and capable of traveling without having a meltdown. You will need to devote all of your time, money and resources to your daughters to get them through the education nightmare that is ahead of you. Good luck. Be strong. And yes this will take a large toll on your health. You will have no time for you. I hope your husband is up to this challenge and is emotionally supporting you and the girls. Just being honest.

[@magickitchen54]

Would you be willing to talk to me via email? I'm a retired teacher and have so many questions about the school systems, privacy, advocating, professional development for teachers and so on. My daughters are grown like your son. To my knowledge neither of them have been diagnosed with autism. I'm interested professionally. Let me know.

[@babytabby]

I appreciate your honesty. I have an 8 year old on the spectrum and he is pretty high matenince. I haven't had a break from him in over 5 years. I'm entitled to respite care through the state, but I don't want anyone over my house with a raging pandemic going on.

[@melindarichie7321]

For a long time I didn't even know I had autism but that is just a word just let them grow and learn. They know what's around them because I was very aware what was around me. I hate eye contact. But I diagnosed my great nephew. Just encourage them to learn

[@susanpenkala2713]

@melindaRichie what is it about the eyes?? Im so stupid. Plz give more sense about why? P.s. im a why child...always asking why.

[@kristinebailey2804]

Excellent advice. Their success is not based on our understanding of them, it is based on their understanding of themselves. I have a 12 year old autistic grandson. His propensity to focus strongly in a few chosen areas will eventually lead him to a skilled trade or career. He just wont ever be a "people person."

[@kerrysmiles]

Eye contact is literally painful for us so training us to use eye contact actually forces us to be in pain.

[@mercedeschristie9386]

@@terrylyn7052 yes, I just replied earlier that sometimes the way my Mom and oldest sister would look at me, like I must have just lied or killed somebody, I couldn't bear to look them in the eye because they had such an EVIL, piercing and penetrating stare into me...like they were accusing me of something I hadn't done, and I couldn't escape their gaze.. now I know I was just really sensitive....many people now I have no problems having eye contact with unless they seem evil to me...but I really CAN focus better when someone is not forcing me to maintain eye contact fully. Glad to know I'm not alone in this

[@hannahrosa5485]

Your kids are gorgeous. Einstein didn't talk till he was three. Keep up the good work.

[@odelethilton5627]

Oh Mama! You seem like the best Mom! Something about your expression and voice seem very sad. You have a tough road ahead, and I sense you need self care and support. Please look out for you too!

[@heyokaempath5802]

Very true!!

[@phylliskrafft]

My precious son is now 25 years old. We have been through so many doctors...... After 5 consults over the years we knew that we could help him . I appreciate what you have been through. Our son is such a blessing to us. I see that y it sweet girl Isa blessing to you too Tessie can have a wonderful life . You are the right mom!!

[@lisameier1215]

My son was hyperlexic . He started just rambling letters and numbers every time we went for walks when he was a year old but still never really talked to anyone directly or call things by name. I realized at one point that he was reading license plate numbers. I didn't suspect autism at all though. I just started taking his skills and teaching him how to read. (even make believe words that he'd never seen or heard , he's sound them out and say them aloud.) So we went to the library almost daily and got him every book he could possibly want. I was SO desperate for conversation with him I would ask him questions and write down the correct response and hand it to him to read back to me. I still didn't suspect anything was wrong. I thought he was just kind of quirky and fun. I got so mad when his first grade teacher suggested some type of autism and was ready to leave the school when the second grade teacher said the same. I threatened to sue the school..... then took him to a chld psychologist and a neurologist to "prove everyone wrong". .... Well he has Asperger's I guess. (still stims, still likes cogs and spinning things. Smart as a whip though.

[@MissCstina]

My son is three and is hyperlectic, he’s an amazing little boy. Communicates via echolalia, knows numbers (numberplates are still a hit), several alphabets, reads, recognizes form and shapes in everything (we are talking decagonic prisms etc), knows every country in the world and their capitals and can place them on a map according to their shape. I have three grown up children too, but this one exhausts me as I have never tried before. He is diagnosed with autism, I am too now, we are going to be fine. Your son sounds amazing as well.

[@davidtrindle6473]

God bless you. You are so loving and accepting. I have two tiny grandsons likely on the spectrum as I am. I feel much better about how they can have happy lives, given people with attitudes like yours.

[@dianefowler8779]

God bless you for sharing this with the world. And God has blessed these two beautiful girls by giving them to you such a a kind, caring, and loving mother!

[@j.svensson7652]

My son was diagnosed at 19 months. Youngest child in the state at that point (he's almost 20 now). His first meltdown hit when he was 3 hours old. Scared me to death. I'd NEVER seen anything like it before. His first words came at 5 in therapy. He can speak now but he has to really work at it. He refused PECS. I'd catch him stuffing them down the floor vent in the living room. Thank you for what you are doing here! Your girls are darling.

[@sshaw4429]

My daughter also has 2 on the spectrum, one is non-verbal, one has echolalia, which I am just blown away by, in a good way. They are the light of my life. They have a younger brother Sam, not on the spectrum. There are no perfect words here but I am so glad you are sharing. My daughter, and her husband, fortunately live in Idaho, where help is THERE, it is amazing. Yours have so many of the same descriptions. Max loves purple, and loves to swing. Bennie knows all the music and words of dialogue to shows. They are lucky to have you. Hugs mom, you are a beautiful human and your children are beautiful as well. The hard part for me, as a grandmother, is they are so far away. I came as often as I could so they could take vacations, have breaks, but for my daughter it wasn’t good enough. My daughter is angry I don’t live closer, so she has cut me off as a grandmother, to punish me, when it’s me that totally gets them. I truly love each of their idiosyncrasies, and would see them daily if I could. I miss them so much my heart just aches and I DO wish we did lived closer. I did my best. There are just never perfect words. You are an awesome mother to these 3 amazing children, I hope you have great family support. Don’t cut grandparents out.

[@KatyAdelson]

I’m seeing a lot of myself when I was a child in what you mention... The uncomfortable feeling with eye contact, the obsession with spinning and whirly toys...😮 And especially with how she plays with toys - I used to love line stuff up based on color or size, and I’d constantly take my parent’s screwdriver and take the toys apart........ I never thought that might not be a normal way for kids to play until you mentioned it....😮 maybe I should get tested.... it’s something I’ve been wondering for a while now... I’m glad that there is more information about this topic nowadays, especially for girls, and that there are more programs that can help children in these kinds of situations.🙂

[@sheilatobytom]

the children who don't make eye contact are actually looking at you, they're not avoiding looking at you when they turn away, they are using peripheral vision to see you, which is a very common feature of asd

[@melaniev4390]

Why? Why would they look at you through the peripheral vision instead?

[@onion6foot]

Sometimes I wonder if many people said to be on the spectrum are mostly (just) highly sensitive in many ways. Think about how most "normal" people would respond to extreme stimuli (like being unable to get away from really loud heavy metal music). We'd act and or go bonkers. I've raised 3 all with difficult special needs and also was a caregiver for a 12 year old boy officially diagnosed with Autism. I think I may have spectrum issues that are aggravated by abusive and dishonest people. This fits with the general difficulty that people on the spectrum have with things that aren't orderly. With people who defy the rules. It's a high sensitivity to wrongness. And change. Like people with PTSD.

[@rosemarykatogomusanga1619]

@@melaniev4390 We have many they do so??? You have not come across my dear??

[@melaniev4390]

@@rosemarykatogomusanga1619 oh no, my 16yo son has autism and he does this, has since he was little. I have always just wondered why! :)

[@rosemarykatogomusanga1619]

@@melaniev4390 oh my dear is Not abig Deal..dont worry. What you can do make Sure you visit docter or checkup all the time...dont get tired and introduce to him such !like music class and company with Others Friends to keep him busy. Be Strong and take it easy

[@loubock3238]

This mother is a wonderful wealth of information and her children are blessed to have such a loving, smart and compassionate mother. Blessings to this family.

[@MT-mc4hk]

Thank you for taking the time to share this valuable knowledge with us.

[@juan2juan1]

Everything that you have said, that’s my daughter. My baby girl was diagnosed couple of day ago.

[@shanapatterson5014]

Thank you for taking the time a s having the courage to post this. I could not even be as strong. It hard enough as is for one trying to do daily tasks with a child on the spectrum so bravo to you mommy! Your children are in such good hands and God bless you!

[@charlielanguellholt3877]

Hello how are you doing 👋😀☺️☺️👋

[@thekevenoclocknews3316]

It was very touching to listen to you. I am very impressed; you have taken the time to watch and listen to your children and have the wherewithal to come out and talk about it. We need more parents like you. Thank you.

[@dancnluc1]

First time here. Great video. My 6 year old grandson is autism. When he was little there was concern about his size, him not developing like a normal child. He likes to "flap his wings" as we call it; flaps his hands and the way he stands with his knees tightening up. He loves music. He loves his hot wheels but now he is getting into transformers - likes to line them up. Verbally he cannot hold a conversation and repeats certain things. He is a runner so my daughter really worries about that. He goes to school and therapy. Last year the therapist closed up due to covid and you could tell the difference of him missing therapy. It is such a challenge but he is so adorable.

[@yc7044]

Thank you for this amazing video. So informative. God bless you and your beautiful family

[@mindymeek2]

I was very similar to your youngest child. I would organize other kids toys. I didn't talk as a child I was painfully bashful. I mean I was comfortable with my family but only the ones I lived with. I watched life happen, didn't do much besides watch. I played a card game called memory. I loved it. I loved a coloring book I was given that had one marker. Weird it was only one. I remember things with great detail I think because of that card game... It helped me in life to have this great memory skills. I still don't like being touched or touching people. I went to school for hair design and I could work on manequinnes but when it was people I just was traumatizing myself. I will literally forget how to do what I'm doing only because I've got a human there. Sounds crazy but I can't help that another person's presence is very oppressive for me. It's not even like im being treated bad, it's a feeling I get, and I've wondered if it's actually empathic perception. Idk I find that sometimes there are people that make it worse and I wonder if it's actually in my head or if it's from the unspoken and non- communicated vibes

[@tiddlypom2097]

I get the empathy thing, though not as overwhelmingly as yours. I need to look away from people during conversation in order to process what they say, and also while I'm thinking or remembering. I really struggle to do things while someone is looking over my shoulder. And if I need to make a decision, I need some time alone to process - to "mull it over". Oh also, I really can't handle when people get impatient with me - I can feel it radiating off them and I get stressed.

[@mindymeek2]

@@tiddlypom2097 don't you think that what you just described was empathy? When you can feel other people's feelings wether they have expressed them or not. Empathy is just that. The part that gets me messed up is that they are impatient but it is not realistic and knowing that makes any thing I do defeated before I even begin. That's why I think the empathy hinders my normal functioning. Having to overcome something that's already doomed before you begin is daunting.

[@tiddlypom2097]

@@mindymeek2 Oh yes, it's definitely empathy. I just meant that I don't think my experience is quite as intense as what you described. Also touching people isn't an issue for me (any more than is culturally normal, anyway - it's not a touchy-feely culture).

[@samanthafabry1343]

I just came across your video and it took me back to when my son was born 16 years ago. He still likes to hold small Lego in his pocket at high school. He has grown into a wonderful young man who is highly intuitive. Thankyou for this information you are doing a great job and it shows you are putting on the hard work which will pay off in the long term! 💕

[@lisasheppard4507]

Thank you so much for the information. Our youngest son has not been diagnosed as having autism but he had every symptom you mentioned. He is 17 years old now and he still has the same symptoms...he does weaving movement and shaking his hands and does a hopping movement.He also talks to himself continually at home. He is very respectful and helpful. Academically he struggles but continues to try his best. He a sweet son!

[@l.b.5892]

You need three ASD symptoms for a diagnosis.

[@MsMichigan]

My 7 year old nephew is "moderate" on the Spectrum.... he excels at math, and is incredible at electronics and video games. He does the hand movements and steps on his tippy toes..... he is the MOST polite boy, never breaks rules, and feels my emotions like no other human being....although he does have his meltdowns, he is a little angel on earth and understands me more than anyone I know (we suspect I may be on the low end of the spectrum) and I'm so proud of being his "Auntie" .

[@l.b.5892]

@@MsMichigan You are blessed Stephanie. You both have a special relationship and that is very sweet 💕

[@MsMichigan]

@@l.b.5892 Thank you 💙💙💟🫂

[@lizbrown7232]

Being a sweet son is such a blessing.

[@brittanypanda9348]

I was recently diagnosed as having aspergers, and listening to this i asked my mom if i did any of this and she said i did 3 of 5, i LOVED to line up my toys by color, size type,etc. She just thought i liked order. It makes so much sense now. Im high functioning enough that it wasnt entirely obvious. I hate being touched, experience sensory overload, and dont maintain eye contact. My mom just thought i was shy. How interesting.

[@mollyjane4628]

I remember being a small child doing a lot of stims and not wanting to be held...not wanting the invasion of eye contact- 50 years later and having been diagnosed ten years ago, I’m still the same as then. These videos are so helpful to us- even in our adulthood

[@kathierouse5306]

I was diagnosed 5 years ago with Asperger's, and I was 58 years of age. I always had challenges since my childhood. My mom says she thought I was just shy. I didn't like the introductory music of The Flintstones. The horn instruments bothered me. If we had had special education classes at school, it would have been very helpful. But we didn't. The situation was aggravated by my dad's alcoholism, and so I didn't know how to communicate at all. Life was very tough and frustrating, and I always felt very misunderstood. When I was in my early 50s, I learned about Temple Grandin. I saw the movie that was made about her life. I couldn't understand why I identified with her. Then when I learned about being on the Spectrum myself, everything made sense. I'm so grateful for Temple. She's an inspiration. If you haven't seen the movie, but would like to, the title is "Temple Grandin". I cried so much when I watched the movie again after my diagnosis. I think they were tears of relief and releasing some of the pain I have lived with all of my life. One more thing....I live in senior housing owned by my church, I have been here for 3 years, and I hate lawnmowers. I know that most people my age start losing their hearing, but my hearing is still acute. It makes me crazy. I am now in the process of identifying my gifts of being on the spectrum. I would say that because of the level of suffering I have been through, and still struggle with, I sympathize with others and their pain. Even though communication is still a challenge, one thing I have learned is to be a good listener. I listen with my ears, eyes, mind, and heart to people. I never dish out advice unasked for. I want people to know I truly care about their struggles and many disappointments. Oops! I have one more thing. 😁 A year ago, I discovered a wonderful new tv series online called "The Chosen". It's about Jesus and His relationships with the townspeople and meeting the disciples. This is nothing like anything Hollywood has ever done. It's not cheesy, and all the characters come alive. All of the actors are super talented, and you can tell they did their homework preparing for their roles. The director co-wrote the script and wrote up Matthew the tax collector as a young man on the spectrum with Asperger's. Several million people around the world have become fans of this show and love how the characters are real life, not wooden or walking statues. And, to top it all off, Jesus has a warm and wonderful sense of humor. He loves to laugh with people, while at the same time, He has a very tender heart. If you'd like to see The Chosen, it's on KZbin. You can also download the app from the app store on your Apple or Android. You can watch it for free, either way. 👍😊 I'm sorry I'm long winded in my comments. But I hope some of you will look up The Chosen. It's so uplifting! May all of you have an enjoyable Thanksgiving!

[@brittanypanda9348]

@@meridahouser9390 thats true. I am introverted.

[@kristinebailey2804]

You're off to a good start. My grandson aged 12 is autistic. Once they got the diagnosis and my daughter and son in law became his best advocates he has improved by leaps and bounds. Your girls will find their way, one day at a time. My friends daughter just completed her CPA and she wasn't diagnosed until age 15 ! Numbers and math were her "thing", your girls will just need to find their niche.

[@kathyhorethjohnston7392]

My grandson is 2.5 and he has most of these symptoms you just described. He is very smart...but he does not speak words, he does connect eye contact but on his terms, he communicates by grabbing my hand and moving it to show me what he wants, he does not point or clap his hands. He loves to figure out how things works and takes a lot of his toys apart to see how they function. My daughter has had him tested, but it was right before COVID and he is on a waiting list to be analyzed. He just started giving hugs and I can see that he thinks about things, but there clearly is something going on with this adorable 2 year old.

[@begane1]

Thank you so much for this video! I think having first hand impressions are so much more impactful than just seeing a list of symptoms on a google search! You also are a perfect example of how having kids on the spectrum doesn’t diminish your families quality of life. May be different, but as I’ve heard many times, different doesn’t mean less 😊😍

[@Autmazing]

Thank you so much Shelly! ❤️ Your comment is exactly what I'm aiming for when I make my videos and I appreciate every part of this comment so, so much! ❤️

[@helenaabedini1307]

Thank You for sharing! I do recognise this and it’s so important to know in order to help our children. Take care and lots of strength to you❤️

[@ervcka.j]

I cried through this whole video because I’m so emotional from finding out a couple days ago my son might have autism I won’t know for sure until he takes the test it just saddens me that I didn’t notice then again I am only 20 and a first time mom but I still feel I should’ve observed him more I just thought he was taking his time with the whole learning and speech thing ... thank you for this video ❤️

[@Catlily5]

You sound like you are doing your best, don't be so hard on yourself!

[@phyllisanngodfrey6137]

Thank you for the insight into autism and the challenges the child and parents contend with daily. Bless you.

[@jedsanford7879]

literallty the best mom ever. Also this is bringing back so many memories for me. the fitting things inside of other things, not being touched or held, the spinning, the head shaking omg. I grew up in the 80s and no one knew anything. so here I am. 38 years old. actually autistic.

[@sistacoopie2372]

How Brave you are! Bless you and your Family Forever!

[@debbiecicalese8575]

As the mother of an autistic son who is now 17 who had and still has other serious health issues can I just give some advice to other parents without giving you a very long story ,I believe that giving your child vitamin b12 and magnesium can really help , it's not a cure but I found that with my son it did help it should be started as soon as possible but preferably before the age of ten , it's just a small piece of advice that I wish I found sooner , good luck and remember all children are a blessing .

[@christineisabel7827]

You have done an excellent video and posting this information will help so many. You are spot on with all 6 early signs. I was a nurse so my daughter in law asked me to observe my grandson and these were all the signs I saw.

[@ludwig8474]

I don’t have much previous experience with children but I have definitely noticed that my 18month old is showing a lot of signs of autism. It became even more noticeable when he started daycare and the other children his age are so different to him.

[@ToasterOvens]

Tessie she is so adorable. You’re doing such a wonderful job momma. Keep up the good work it will pay off as she gets older. May god bless you and your family! 🤗😇❤️

[@wandah9468]

They said there was something wrong with me. I was 4 1/2years old. I didn't interact with anyone,(hey, I was the new kid at a nursery school, what, no introductions?) I kept rocking back and forth in a giant aluminum saucer! I loved it! Maybe my parents thought I was slow, but I remember the whole thing! Since I wasnt introduced to the other kids I looked for something else to do. Hence the saucer. There was turmoil in the house, so I kept to myself. So now that I look at it, I really dont qualify, like your kids. Thank God they have you and your support network! I believe someday you will bring those kids up very well!!!💖💖💖 Wish you had been my mom....seriously the help just wasnt there for me then....

[@nixiewolf7674]

Thumbs up of course, you are an amazing mother and woman. Thank you for taking your precious time to share your valuable knowledge with all. I wish you and your beautiful daughters nothing but the best, always.

[@RaymondOreFineArt]

Tessie looks adorable. I love the quote: Autism is not a processing error, but a different operating system. Not sure where it comes from

[@Autmazing]

Thank you so much Raymond! I love that quote too. ❤️ It is a very good one!

[@funkypunkyracoon]

Think this is really, really true. And if nature keeps producing this "different operating system", it's because it is needed, right here, right now. We need all our neurodiverse people -- like Beethoven, Da Vinci, Proust, James Joyce, John Forbes Nash, Einstein. Nature knows what it needs. It will all come clear in the fullness of time. Hang in there, lovely mother.

[@suziecue3027]

@@funkypunkyracoon .. Elon musk , spectrum... billion dollars

[@annadavis6361]

Autism kids are awesome. I have friends and family members that have autism kids and they all are priceless to me. I honestly adore them.

[@AngieWarhol]

Thank you for posting this! I have 2 daughters, they are 7 and 10. Both are on the spectrum and both present so differently. I’m glad to see more insight and representation of autistic females. 💜

[@caleblaurabell]

Agreed, there's so little written on girls with ASD. I suspected my daughter was when she was a preschooler (she was reading fluently while still in diapers!), but it took some difficult years before we got a diagnosis as her doctors didn't see it and kept telling us it was just adhd instead. It helps so much knowing what we're dealing with now!

[@theresajones2318]

My granddaughter has autism and my daughter took her to a MAAPS Dr. She has made alot of improvements. Keep up the good work! Beautiful girls you have

[@attilladacook3405]

My daughter had same symptoms starting at 3 weeks. She would roll her eyes back in her head to avoid eye contact she did not like human touch she would throw her head back to try to thrust herself out I’ve your arms. She couldn’t handle normal visual stimulation ie Mobil’s bright pictures ect. So by 3 months I took her to a clinic that worked with and diagnosed children with autism. They said she was the youngest they had ever seen with autistic symptoms but would not diagnos her at such a young age so I got no help other than to bring her back at 3 years. I went home and experimented with covering one of her eyes and trying to get eye contact. It worked! She could make normal eye contact. I did this about 4 times during the day, at those times I would coo and smile at her like you would do with a normal baby and she responded. She smiled for the first time at 4 months old! Prior to that she only smiled in her sleep. She went on to become a normal child and adult until 2 years ago at age 33 she was diagnosed with bi polar mental illness that medication completely helped (as long as she takes it) she is happily married and has 3 children.

[@bigfanoflizzybusy9053]

I’m an Early Childhood educator in special needs, graduated with my degree and been in this field for over 20 years. Yes, everything she said are top signs of autism. I had a little boy one year in my class that had autism and was only 3. He could read anything you put in front of him, he could recite the alphabet backwards and tell time! Blows my mind how smart these kids can be.

[@debk5325]

God bless you, I too worked with special needs children and found it very rewarding.

[@heyokaempath5802]

Yes! I started reading at 16 months old, and by the time I was 3, I could write my own name. My IQ is 165, but sometimes I do the most nonsensical things.

[@kerrysmiles]

Special education degree is seeped in ableism so it makes sense why it would blow your mind that disabled people can be whole human beings.

[@debbiejohnson2789]

That sounds like Savant Syndrome, like the character in the movie, Rain Man with Dustin Hoffman. Regular people with autism don’t have Savant syndrome, which is very rare.

[@debbiejohnson2789]

Most are not that smart. Sounds more like Savant Syndrome. Those with Savant Syndrome are the ones who can do all those things you mentioned, but not regular autistic kids. Asperger’s syndrome (high functioning) is much more common than Savant Syndtome.

[@susanmavromatis8108]

Oh Mama! You seem like the best Mom! Something about your expression and voice seem very sad. You have a tough road ahead, and I sense you need self care and support. Please look out for you too!

[@Pamsmith59]

Disagree! I think she is highly intelligent, aware and seeking to understand; not sad. These children are blessed beyond measure that she is their Mama! And, of course, self care is always good.

[@wewemcrhyne]

I’m sure it is very difficult to talk about. It brings back many emotions.

[@lauraantic1384]

Her eyes

[@julhe8743]

Good observation, is very hard long road. I hope that she get support from family and friends..

[@drivenhome3257]

I agree, this mother IMO sounds incredibly stressed to a breaking point. She needs to self care and get a break. If she's upset the autistic child will become upset. Parents with children with disabilities often have little to no support. When this mother describes the child "shake her head and shake her head and shake her head" You can hear the stress and frustration in this mother. Also this mother is presenting herself much more than presenting videos of the children to correlate her descriptions. Having her face in the video is like saying "See, me, I'm here too, I need support, I need to vent, I need a holiday" But the jittery, almost soulful cry comes through clearly.

[@MegaGinki]

Thank you for sharing! You are so candid and this film was very informative

[@melfegredo406]

Your girls are beautiful and I thank you for this video you are an amazing mother.

[@dorisgreen9074]

This to me is heart breaking. I will be 76 this year and this was unheard of when I had my 4 children.

[@melissahaletky3651]

I had ASD my entire life and never knew until I was 39. so it is not unusual to say you never heard of it ontill the mid 2000sabds.

[@someonerandom256]

My dad is 85 and he has it. So does my brother who is 51. Back then, children with disorders like autism were usually institutionalized. I don't really think autism is on the rise, I think we've just gotten way better at recognizing it for what it is and diagnosing it.

[@kristinebailey2804]

@@someonerandom256 I disagree. It is much more prevalent now. You were made aware by the fact that you were exposed to it up close and personal. I worked in a classroom for special education for years and never once saw the characteristics of autism. I saw epilepsy and mild retardation, I saw cerebral palsy, deaf children, attention deficit, but I did NOT see autism. My grandson, now 12 is autistic so I know the signs when I see them. Something is going on here and we need to find out WHAT.

[@leedsanimation]

@@kristinebailey2804 that's very interesting - in what year would you say this rise in autism began?

[@joanmavima5423]

@@kristinebailey2804 I spent some years working with autistic young adults. I, too remember growing up in the 50s

[@emelindumapias3865]

Interested vlog ma'am, i have nephew who also an autistic....and we love him ....he cant talk also cry only and laugh. He loves cuddling and have fun hugging

[@marycatherineyork409]

I had the same experiences with my youngest daughter while nursing and she is also on the spectrum. I have two daughters on the spectrum, the oldest and the youngest. We also experienced the same thing when my youngest was a newborn with not wanting to be held or touched.

[@juliepearson1685]

Great information my daughter didn't get her diagnosis till she was 14 years old even though I knew there was something wrong she was on s.en had help at school but was on the waiting list at least 3 and a half years to be assessed. She has come to terms with it now. Still loves very child like things but she's got such good knowledge of history and English.

[@charlielanguellholt3877]

Hello how are you doing 👋😀☺️☺️👋😀

[@lesleyrobertson5465]

My 11yr old girl was just diagnosed with autism last year so it came as a bit of a shock. We just thought she was shy. But with girls it is more difficult to diagnose because they are able to act and mimic their friends so they appear to fit in. When the stress of fitting in and trying to cope with school becomes too much they down tools and usually it is food that is used to try and control their stress. So our daughter, drip by drip, decided to cut out food until she wasn’t eating at all. Communication stopped and she became very withdrawn. During when she was sectioned in a children’s psychiatric ward for 5 months they assessed her and fed her through a nasogastric tube. Her diagnosis was high functioning autism. Highly intelligent but her processing skills are slow. So if she is asked an open ended question she goes through every possible scenario before answering. Now we understand as parents it is much easier to cope with. The main things I noticed, in hindsight, was she never slept a full night for 5 years. When asking her to do things like put on shoes, I had to repeat myself 10 times until she did it. She doesn’t like being touched near her tummy and dislike clothes being too tight there. She also picks skin off her ears so we try to encourage fidget toys. When she was between the ages of 5-9yrs she played with her my little ponys and lol dolls all the time and she new every name and their powers, she must have had over 100. We just thought she was quirky. She has always had friends around her and they help her at school. She has her own quiet room next to the class room. She still doesn’t eat at school but as soon as she comes home she eats her packed lunch. I hope this helps other parents. Thanx

[@LadyBirch]

Never knew about the eating part or sleeping part. My little granddaughter has high functioning autism. Thank goodness her Mom has a degree in ECE and noticed signs from her birth, that I never knew were signs. Good to know these signs. My son didn’t sleep through the night until 2-2 1/2 yrs old.

[@onion6foot]

Wow. This blows my mind. By any chance did she have a bad illness before symptoms began? Lots of family issues with all kinds of stuff. I'm 63 and exhausted. Really good that you've been able to connect the dots correctly.

[@onion6foot]

I forgot to mention PANDA (associated with Strep and/or possibly other infections and the onset or worsening of certain conditions...including Tourette Syndrome) I figure if there is a correlation...something in the brain was affected; perhaps due to inflammation and resulting damage. When I taught an adult art class years ago, one of my students had been a pilot and she suffered brain (and other injuries) as a result of a crash. It was immediately clear that the accident and brain injury had also caused access to a new ability very much like what some savants exhibit. She could look at anything and reproduce it effortlessly. I must say it was disconcerting. She went on to become a painter. My son showed symptoms of autism early on. Since he was my first child I did not know he was not supposed to be able to work puzzles as he did.(standing there in his diapers) He got bored with the 20 piece puzzles and flipped them over to work them from the blank/grey side. That was just the beginning of really tough years. Too much to go into. A good book is "Far From the Tree". Pray.

[@lesleyrobertson5465]

@@onion6foot no major illnesses. Just a bit quirky. Shyness and of course not sleeping a full night for 5yrs and always wanting to be with somebody, mainly me. Autism is not as plainly obvious with girls as it is with boys and that’s why there seems to be more boys diagnosed than girls. The specialists say most people are on the spectrum. They said when she gets older she will flourish in jobs that are black and white but for her to stay away from competitive/ aggressive/ stressful type professions.

[@Lakeslover1]

Very detailed talk and so personal. Many thanks to you.

[@sandy7543]

Thank you for posting this! Very informative!

[@brendahall8461]

Hello, your family is beautiful! I have a 32-year-old beautiful daughter who was diagnosed in her late 20s on the spectrum. She now has 2degrees , a declared minor, and just finished a Masters in health administration! The sky is the limit for these beautiful Angels!! With lots of love, care, one on one attention, patience, acceptance and understanding anyone can reach their full potential. Namaste 🙏

[@jesusislife9259]

I'm sorry, but what is a "declared minor?"

[@brendahall8461]

@@jesusislife9259 Basically another degree just not as heavy of a discipline

[@jesusislife9259]

@@brendahall8461 Ohhh, lol! I'm sorry... I'm a idiot! Thanks for the reply...

[@brendahall8461]

@@jesusislife9259 you are not an idiot 🙏

[@bhavnalakhani5452]

This is amazing personnel base experience great to hear first hand experience ... rather then reading about it. Thank you so much for this information. As.most of the professionals says this spectrum does not show in the early years but after 4year!!!! You prove them wrong

[@heathermariesmith5267]

Thank you for sharing for others you have a beautiful family and I wish you all the best!

[@BooksbyAFoster]

Prayers for you and your family. I have two severe kids... (20 plus years old now) and it has been a journey... that only God kept me walking forward through... Take things one day at a time. Be attentive, and don't give up for any reason. My son is in a residence...and doing alright now. He is happy. My daughter was worse and ended up going to college and excelling in the later years. Don't lose being a family and "happy" over autism... Try hard to gain the normal moments, that you need... I stopped taking videos as my kids would scream for hours and hours... and the videos were terrible... So I took still shots...lots of them... many had smiles... at least some times... Keep going, don't give up... and ask the Lord for Help!!! often... Ann BooksbyAFoster

[@charlielanguellholt3877]

Hello how are you doing 👋😀☺️☺️

[@lindac5273]

You are a truly awesome mother....may God bless you...stay strong and try and find moments for yourself just for you as well. 🙏🏻💕

[@cobrafox8640]

I'm 61 yrs old and I'm still uncomfortable with my 80 yr old mother's intense eye contact! I really love her but it feels intimidating!

[@debradesimone9777]

Wow! I never knew any of this information! I take care of the elderly and slot of the thins you described are behaviors of a person with Alzheimer's or dementia, which is amazing to me! I am so impressed with your composure while speaking about your beautiful daughters, so you can help other parents who don't understand what they are seeing in their own children! God picks special people to be the parents of these special children, and after watching this video I can see the love in your eyes when you speak about them! My prayers and admiration are with your family! 😇🤗

[@charlielanguellholt3877]

Hello how are you doing 👋😀👋😀

[@kimberlyporter8770]

Gosh I saw so many of these things in my now 15 year old son. He used to hit his head on his mattress over and over when he was 6 months old-- and the spinning yes! He called it the soup dance. Mine also loved (and still does) putting things in his mouth that weren't food. And being held! He would stiffen and arch his back. Thanks for sharing your insights. You are a beautiful human being.

[@loveitorleaveit9673]

My niece has 2 daughters with autism, and one son between them with "normal" behavior. This woman is a rock star, but I know she has great moments of despair. She works so hard with all of her kids and is such an excellent mother, and I can see that you are as well! I always felt that my niece was given those girls because she is so patient and loving and they needed her quiet strength. I believe the same about you and your daughter. I don't know anything about your faith, but please know, that in the Bible, God promises us he will never give us more than we can handle, together with him. Take heart, my dear woman. All of your children are very lucky to have you as their mother. 🙏😉

[@Firebreathingdove]

God bless you and your sweet girls 💜 thanks for sharing this in a sensitive way

[@sashawhitehead7378]

Thank you for sharing your story with us.

[@idapopovich2786]

Your are such a special person. What a blessing you are to your daughters. God Bless

[@alisianava]

Thank you for sharing, this was extremely helpful. I know my niece has it and was looking for something to show my sister. That way she can get her tested and plan for her future. Thank you again.

[@kristinebailey2804]

Very good ! It took us 3 years to make my daughter and son in law face up to the fact that something was not right about their second son. Finally when he was 4 and visiting my daughters house, the neighbors child the same age came over to play, my daughter thought the visiting child was around 3 years older than my grandson. We had to tell her "He is the exact same age." She let him languish another year and when he started school, the school forced the issue and testing. Flash forward, he's 12 now, she and my son in law have become his best advocates and are absolute saints in dealing with this. Some counseling and joining some groups for the spectrum disorders helped a lot.

[@alisianava]

@Kristine Bailey Thank you for the advice, I agree and will pass on the advice. I think it's a great idea.

[@lucydomenech7284]

Love your video you gave so much information about Autism, very instructive.

[@mariewilliams602]

Thankyou so much for taking the time to give us this great information about Autism its a great helpto us .

[@christinedisneyqueen5746]

You are an amazing parent! I’m a retired special education teacher…so I know how to spot the good ones! 😊 Thanks for sharing.

[@charlielanguellholt3877]

Hello how are you doing 👋😀☺️☺️

[@dawnwuollet597]

Wonderful information You have beautiful children. They are very fortunate to have such a caring and helpful mother like you❤️

[@phuthishore9237]

Thank you for sharing. You're an amazing mom. Good bless you 🙏

[@Alexandra-dc7yw]

Amazing woman! Thank you for educating us

[@StacySelah]

Thank you from a concerned Grandma! Shalom from Florida 🕊🕊🕊

[@eleneweber93]

Thank you! Very blessed that you shared!

[@Hailstonepie]

In the UK a parent has to fight on average 5 to 7 years to get a diagnosis and help with education.

[@shonacourt9750]

As a SENCo in Early Years, I get completely disheartened when we have children that we know, through our experience, are on the spectrum and we are told by ‘professionals’ that they won’t give a diagnosis until they start school. We support the child and the parents/carers as much as we can ( I thank god I’ve got some supportive outside agencies!) but you really feel devalued, as some make you feel like you don’t know what you’re talking about because you only work in Early Years☹️

[@TermiteVideo]

Because in the UK it is considered undesirable to label very young children. Local school can provide a shake down for ‘late developers’ who sometimes suddenly motor on. If not separation can be pursued. But I think kids deserve a chance, so this is the preferred option in most of Europe.

[@newenglandlight8724]

That's the saddest thing I've ever heard. Early intervention is so important.

[@elizabethtencer7950]

I'm 71, accomplished, creative, well liked but it occurred to me right now I've been a little autistic as a child. I remember hating to be touched and not showing but really suffering when my mom kissed me, even worse when my uncle hugged me and kissed before he put me to bed. And the the way I played both with toys and with words was strange too. I've repeated some words over and over and transformed them to give them different meaning or no meaning at all. I was addicted to this. Yet I was considered normal. Maybe we're all on the autistic spectrum to a different degree?

[@angelchild4942]

I completely agree. 💖

[@antonioloureiro1143]

Thanks for sharing this information. Sometimes parents do not have a clue, that something is not right with their kids.

[@debrafuller5693]

My son at birth did as yours did while nursing!Like a trance focus away from my eyes! He didn't like me to touch his head!He was never destructive with toys and would category gather! When ✍ he struggled alot to hold pencil,crayon in writing posture! His focus so intent on perfection when writing his own prescribe!He would write satisfactory!But really off balance noticeably just too write his name!When pressed hard too write what was asked of him extremely slow doing it! He loved creating stories bounced off of another story that intrigued him!Not exactly plagiarism,but closely inspired from!His drawing skills would be excellent from photogenic memory! He struggled severely with every grade in school! Too get professional help was crippling effort unable too afford psychiatrist! And the school failed us too pull it together! He was terribly bullied,but somehow made a target by teacher for his lack of participation not doing the assignments! He would score fairly high on test too push him through! He didn't mind attending,though he didn't make friends! He wasn't thought of as disruptive just too himself!He was acknowledged as a smart intellectual with no ambition COVID19 In his senior year and he was failing! I spoke too the counselor that thought I was pulling his chain!Well in fact I nearly metaphorically speaking I came off my cool too make him take a closer look! My kid is GOOD!He has a condition that needs HELP! In a last minute stance this counselor came through and he graduated with his class in the PANDEMIC of 2020 Its like having a kid thats 5yrs behind there years!Yet brilliant beyond their age! 💔 and Confusing for me and my kid I guess thinks I'm kooky! I have too deal with myself the best I can! I love him and want him too be a strong,healthy individual that can take care of himself into his adult life! Thanks for sharing your 🌎 of understanding your child too help others!We have alot too learn and GOD HAS OUR TIME!BLESS US ALL

[@juliebrothers6033]

That was very well described. God bless you and your family. I’m sure others will really appreciate your comments 💁‍♀️🌹🙏✝️💁‍♀️💕💕💕💕

[@belindaalderson9341]

She is going to do something special as she grows into herself . They have special way of learning . I knew at two when I adopted my now 35 yr old son . And he is pretty amazing . Hard times but there were great times too

[@julied6322]

You are so fortunate that you had doctors that recognized what was going on. I don't know how knowledgeable doctors were in the early 90s but my son's had no clue. I knew there was something going on with him but I had no knowledge of autism and the spectrum then. I was just wondering if he would talk or be potty trained by time kindergarten rolled around. I don't know how many years I pestered his doctor to figure out what was going on with him but I got nowhere. The school tested him in 2nd grade and found him to be extremely intelligent but his social skills had a lot to be desired. He so longed to be part of a group; any group; but had no way of managing it. If the kids were playing and running he'd run too but he always seemed to be on the outside. There wasn't any connection going on. He joined our local soccer league and did very well. He also discovered theater. He finally belonged. But I noticed with every cast photo or group number in musicals he doesn't look at the camera or the audience. It's weird how he can do that. He's gone on to direct a few plays and how he gets the actors to do what they're supposed to is beyond me because he still can't make eye contact and has a bit of trouble with one on one interactions. His stims have evolved over the years. It used to be constant knuckle cracking and strange throat noises. Now he just bends his fingers without cracking and he clears his throat a lot. He self diagnosed himself while in his 20s so he's never received any therapies or had any help. He's in his 30s now and still lives at home. He's held a few jobs over the years but only because friends have hired him. He tries to do job interviews but he just isn't any good at them. He wants to work in theater but without a degree and with covid shutting everything down we don't see that happening. We need to get him officially diagnosed so maybe he'll qualify for some adult job training for special needs. He's signed himself up for MediCal but getting in to see a specialist, especially in these times, is like pulling teeth. And he won't make the call himself. Even at 33 he still needs me to be his advocate. Being a mom doesn't stop when they become adults.

[@lindahigham4507]

It’s true that doctors often don’t listen to parents, as I found out the hard way with my son. At one year old I knew there was something off with him re his development, and it took a long time to get us referred to a hospital. If we had it may have avoided several surgeries.

[@Mariapatlan8195]

Thank you for this video I have a 20 month old girl and she’s been showing signs of her being in the spectrum and I just want to get her diagnosed as soon as possible to be able to understand her better. She doesn’t respond to her name like at all she plays with her toys but will line them up she likes to sit and flip pages in books and won’t move until she is done. She also loves spinning or she like laying on the floor and rolling from side to side.