My son began speaking at 10 months, and speaking in complete sentences by 20 months. At age four was tested by the school district who concluded that he was learning at a 7th or 8th grade level. He was diagnosed with autism at age 3. He had no speech delay (quite the opposite) and his language was/is very sophisticated.
Autism diagnoses are not consistent--it all depends on who is doing the diagnosing. Some kids like my son get an Asperger Syndrome diagnosis (there is no "b" in the name), some get autism, some get ADHD, some get PDD-NOS, and some get a combination of these. My son was reevaluated at age 5 and diagnosed with Asperger Syndrome. It is believed that the original diagnosis of autism was correct, but that he has matured to where he appears to have AS. The difference in my son's case is the severity of the symptoms. He could be said to have very mild autism, or very severe Asperger Syndrome. He does not flap his hands or walk on tip toes, and he is very sensitive, especially regarding animals (particularly cats). He is highly gifted and has ASD. He is very empathetic, but doesn't show affection, is somewhat awkward physically, doesn't ride a bike. He is exactly like Sheldon on Big Bang Theory.
Many believe the hallmark of Asperger Syndrome is the "special interest"--a subject that engulfs the child. Can be something odd, like vacuum cleaners or antique doorknobs, or can be something more "normal," like bugs, Pokemon, or Twilight. But they will know everything there is to know on the subject, talk about it constantly, become experts. It is their comfort and their love. These interests can change over the years, or stay the same forever. Many boys with ASD love trains beginning with Thomas the Tank Engine, and grow to be experts on trains of all kinds. Many girls with ASD love horses or fantasy/magical worlds.
Rumor is that the next DSM will not include Asperger Syndrome, and that the diagnosis will be swallowed by ASD (Autism Spectrum Disorder).
I urge people not to be ashamed of having Asperger Syndrome. There is a diagnosis because this diagnosis helps the child get appropriate supports in school and at home. Asperger Syndrome is nothing to fear.
