Continued Concern

[jsmk1234]

My DS is now 2.5.  He was cleared by a Neuropsychologist as not having an ASD, rather being a likely misunderstood bright child with some autistic traits.  I am having a difficult time understanding his development and similarities to ASD.  His ASD-like characteristics are lining up toys (started recently, not all the time and plays with toys normally at most times with imagination), finger posturing (kind-of like fidgeting - not really noticible unles you are looking for it), language delay (although he is being discharged from early intervention after only 4 months for meeting all his goals), and social clumsiness (not as interested in social interation as his twin sister (his best friend), although he will play with other children and is very interested in them).  Conversely he is very smart (knows ABCs, counts to 20 knowing letters and numbers out of order, all shapes, colors, animals, etc.  Loves to cuddle, share interest with others, makes decent eye contact, long attention span (at the expense of his response to us sometimes), shows empathy, etc.  He seems to be a very sensitive, smart, smart boy with some similarities to ASD, but not enough to be labeled as such.  Does this sound reasonable to you?  Are there any resources that may help me better understand his development which is so different from his twin sister's?  Comparing often makes it more difficult.

[Kevin Kennedy, Ph.D.]

You have answered your own question. Read your note, paying careful attention to the ASD-type traits you listed, alongside the normal areas of development. That is really the main point the neuropsychologist was making. Don't read more into it than is intended. The specifics speak for themselves and I really can't add anything more to them. Be reassured about the feedback you received. The feedback does not invite worry.

[Kevin Kennedy, Ph.D.]

Thank you for the feedback - it is very useful to hear.

[jsmk1234]

Dr. Kennedy,

I have read through many of your replies as well as those on other sections on this site.  I must say that the information you provide is helpful and objective as compared to many of the "canned" responses from other professionals on the site which do not really offer a direct answer to the question of a concerned or scared parent.  Your taking time to personally respond is greatly appreciated.

Thank You.