A Prompt to Act Fast

Could It Be Autism? A Parent's Guide to the First Signs and First Steps, by Nancy D. Wiseman (Broadway Books, $22.95)

"Let's just wait and see" is a phrase many worried parents hear from the pediatrician when they express concerns about their infant's or toddler's development. But sometimes "wait and see" just doesn't cut it -- especially when it comes to possible signs of autism. This book, by parent/activist Nancy Wiseman (founder of First Signs Inc., a national nonprofit group dedicated to early identification of autism) tells parents what to watch for and when to get pushy.

Early Red Flags Your child isn't smiling by 6 months? Babbling and pointing by 12 months? Using meaningful two-word phrases by 24 months? None necessarily means he has autism. But they are signs to get an immediate, formal evaluation by a developmental disorders expert. Wiseman includes several screening tools that help parents spot early warning signs -- vital info, since most experts say intensive intervention before age 3 has the most profound impact.

Subtle Clues The author discusses subtler signs of problems. For example, an 18-month-old may meet the developmental milestone of using 10 different words, but just saying them isn't enough. "It's one thing to say 'cheese' when you want a cube of mozzarella," Wiseman explains. "It's quite another to say 'cheese' over and over all day" when there are no dairy products in sight.

What Next? Say your child is diagnosed with developmental difficulties. Wiseman explains the many therapy options available, while emphasizing that there's no "right" one. Instead of looking for such a solution, she urges parents to prioritize their child's needs and pick therapies accordingly. Parents will especially appreciate the tips from a mom who's been there and done that -- e.g., how to get in to see the specialist who has a two-year waiting list.

-- Lisa Barrett Mann