Doctor vs School

by Ali
(Indianapolis, IN)

My son started seeing a developmental therapist when he was 18 months old for a speech delay (a speech pathologist was not available). At age 3 he aged out of the program and went to a developmental preschool for 2 years. This is where I first was approached with the possibility of my son falling onto the spectrum. I took him to a child neurologist who specialized in autism and said that my son did not exhibit any symptoms on autism and thought the school was "crazy" for their reasoning. The doctor wrote a letter to the school describing her findings: Dylan could make eye contact, he was affectionate, he could learn, make friends and pretend play. He did not exhibit any hand flapping, rocking back and forth or repeating words or phrases.

My son started kindergarten this year, and the subject of autism has resurfaced. According to the school, his behavior at times is inappropriate, although they admit that he is well-behaved most of the time. However, there are times that he has difficulty dealing with his peers and often becomes frustrated. They said this is why he falls on the spectrum.

My son plays t-ball and has had no issue listening to the coach or getting along with other kids. He loves playing with other kids and going to the park.

I took him again back to the neurologist who again found no signs of autism.

The school insists there is a difference between a medical diagnosis and an educational diagnosis. Who to believe??

My son's pediatrician doesn't see any signs of autism. My son also sees a child psychologist who didn't see any signs either. He does seem to have meltdowns - although they are improving. I'm concerned and frustrated.