Hi, this is my first post on this board, though I often read for information. My DD 16 is gifted, DH as well. Our DS just turned 3. He is also very intelligent. Same as many children described on this forum, reading before 3, counts to 100, etc... At his 3 year old check up, the doctor ordered an evaluation for ASD. I realize that my son is quirky and smart, but so are his father and sister, they are not autistic. My son does have some speech issues. We are also having a speech evaluation. Is being disinterested in other children, and speech issues enough reason for an physc evaluation? He makes eye contact, responds to facial expressions, cuddles a lot, and is physically coordinated. I value your opinions.

I would have the evaluation done. It really can't hurt and I assume that you are being referred to an expert in ASD. If your child is displaying symptoms early therapy and intervention can be very valuable and make a difference, provided the expert feels they are necessary. As parents sometimes we are to close to our children to see red flags and an outside opinion can be helpful. The evaluator could just as easily say nope, everything appears fine. Then you have peace of mind about any quirks.

Welcome to the board.

I agree with sallymom - it can't really hurt and if it does turn up something it is better to know earlier rather than later.

At the same time I wouldn't lose a lot of sleep over it based on your brief description. My DS raised some red flags when he was younger with his speech delay and extreme introverted nature. We did a lot of speech therapy and now he doesn't shut up when he's around people he knows. He's still an introvert that takes a long time to warm up to situations and people. We encourage him to push his boundaries a little but we also realize that at his core this is who he is.