is he autistic?

[zamorana]

Hi, My son will turn 2 years old next month. My question is, my son loves to stimulate his eye through spinning wheels and he also likes to walk very close to the walls and follows vertical lines with the corner of his eye. Dos this mean he is autistic. I'm very confused because he is very sociable with ppl(not kids) and likes to play with us, smiles alot, does pretend play, know his mom and dad and many members of the family.Has good eye contact only when he is playing.I'm really confused here.he says a few words around 20 words.

[Me2mommy2b]

If you do have concerns, then have him tested.  The only reason I say this is the earlier he's detected (and I'm NOT saying that he's on the spectrum), the earlier he can get all the help he might need.  Again, I am not suggesting he's on the spectrum but if it drives you crazy, like you stated, there are two things you can do: either take the wait and see approach or have him tested now.  I wish you all the best.

[zamorana]

Well actually he sometimes does spin his car wheels for more than 5 mins. But he'll eventually get tired and move on to something else. On the other hand if i call him he would turn to me to see what i want or who is calling him and then continue spinning. Other than his obsession with everything that spins and following vertical lines he seems normal like any other kid.Plus this week he learned a few new words and started giving me things when I ask him. I'm tired of worrying about him. I swear all this is driving me crazy, I can't take it anymore. I just get so frustrated everytime I see him walking beside the walls or staring at everything that spins.

[Me2mommy2b]

Many kids can display autistic behavior and not be autistic.  Kids like to spin the wheels in general.  The question is: how long can he do it for without getting tired?  A normally developing child will spin it for a few minutes and move on to the next activity.  An autistic child can do it for 5 minutes non stop.  If you have such great concerns, I'd have him tested.  Good luck.