Baby Speech Delay

Question

Am a 1st time mom. When my son turned 18 mths. Went for the developmental check up at poly. Told him to stack up small blocks and scribble. But my son couldnt do it but was distracted to a story book instead. Straightaway.. the nurse told me he has symptoms of autism. Not listening to simple instructions. Doc was very blunt too. I was so upset. Was referred to KKH specialist, again asked to stack up blocks n scribbling. Is autism defined just by a child not able to stack blocks and not scribbling? My boy is already 20 mths old and still babbles only. Thus the doctors keep on talking about speech delay and autism. Fixing appt for hearing test, going to autism clinic,  booking a place at therapy classes and so many things for us to digest at one go. Even i wished eagerly that i could hear my son speak some words.. but he only babbles. Breaks my heart when i see other toddlers around him talk to him  during playtime but all he could do is smile and laugh. He is sociable but just cant talk yet. I really hope i can hear my son calls me mom one day. #worryingmom #1stimemom #firstbaby #advicepls

Safiah Bte Mohd Najib · Answer

hi mummy, It can be very overwhelming to have all that information overload but doctors mean well. maybe what you could do is listen to your baby. if you think he is delayed, early intervention is always best for your child. usually kkh will link you up to sgenable and help you find a good place in early intervention. centre. i understand that having a diagnosis of autism maybe stigmatising but ultimately whatever that is best for the baby is best for the family. hope this advice helps