Hello!

Is any way of distinguishing between the quirky personality traits of a young child and the signs of Aspergers/Autism or something else? My 3.5 year old  has some different traits to his siblings and I don’t know how to distinguish between just being different or if there is actually something a little deeper that I should investigate further. He is highly emotional, especially when tired, very particular about certain things, always asking the same things over and over, asking questions about all sorts of very random things and quite introverted at times yet overly exuberant at other times. His speech is okay. Hoping or a little insight from other mums. Thank you.

Posted by anon, 11/7/13

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  • Every child is very different indeed. In the end you know your child best and when you do have concerns it doesn’t harm to have it checked. Although I have to say that diagnosis are sometimes very easily made (sometimes without proper assessments!!) and it will give a label. when you choose to have it checked I persanally would go to a clinical psychologist specialised in assessments who has plenty of experience and does proper testing


  • This sounds in the normal range. I don’t think you could know for sure without a professional assessment. But if he’s happy and you’re okay, I think you should just wait and see.


  • I hope you were able to find the answer to your question.


  • If it is personality , that is Gods nature . If it is a disorder you are worried about , take him to the doctor who will refer you on to a specialist to get your child tested. I used to follow the development chart in the babys blue book and it will give you a guide to determine if they are growing healthily.


  • Never! Personality is what makes us different from everyone else. Embrace their differences and love them regardless


  • kids are all different to each other. Cater to him but don’t make him feel bad for feeling emotions etc.


  • A good friend of mine has a very good saying – if in doubt check it out. You’ll be told nothing’s wrong (great) or get assistance if required (great) can’t lose


  • maybe see a doctor if you are worried, but it may just be his own personality. every child is different.


  • Have you discussed this with your Doctor?


  • Sounds like a normal young child, but if you are worried I would speak to the gp about it sooner rather than later.


  • he is probably just a normal little one and having older siblings he is getting so much into his little head that it is probably becoming overwhelming at times


  • I hope you got some answers God Bless and good luck


  • I suggest you speak to your local doctor hope all works out for you.


  • I’m sorry, but if you have any concerns, I wouldn’t leave it a couple of years. Early intervention is the key to dealing with any behaviours on the Autistic Spectrum and your doctor will be able to put your mind at ease or give you a referral for a specialist if that is what he thinks is the next step. Having said that, all children are different and my daughter exhibits many of these same traits and I’m not concerned at all (she’s just a quirky, complicated little girl).


  • Apart from a referral to a paediatrician, I’d leave it a couple of years and see how he is.


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