What's the Difference Between Speech Delay and Autism?

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HUGE disclaimer: I am not saying that diagnoses are useless. It’s very helpful for professionals. What I mean when I say “diagnosis isn’t important” - is that taking action to start therapy is what’s most important.  See a professional who you trust!

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If you are reading this, it’s because you’ve been searching for it. Leave it to the professionals, I know it’s difficult to come to terms with it. But focus on what you can do right now! If it helps, use the “I’ll prove them wrong” mentality to help push you and your child to make consistent 

What is speech and language delay and ASD
Speech and language disorders can be summarized when a child lacks the ability to communicate effectively as compared to peers of the same age group. Whereas Autism Spectrum disorder, I’d urge you to read the diagnostic notes here: https://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/autism/hcp... because I’m not qualified to make a diagnosis, so it’d be better for you to read it and consult a paediatrician or a psychologist.

In extremely general terms, speech and language delayed children cannot communicate well, but usually are communicative. Whereas ASD children aren’t that interested in communicating, that’s why they aren’t good at it.

Can it happen together? Yes, a child can be speech and language delayed and also be on the spectrum.

Does Speech delay equal Autism?
NO! There are pure “speech delay” cases, with nothing to do with ASD. Most of the time, there really isn’t a cause we can point to about why a child has a delay in the use of speech and language for communication. But when a child is on the Autism spectrum, it usually does come with a language disorder. These children are at a higher risk of having a problem with communicating.

Why having a diagnosis doesn’t matter...
Unless you need the diagnosis for getting into a school, getting therapy services, or getting extra support, then I would urge you to not obsess over the labels. And do what you can right now to participate in early intervention, the earlier you start, the better the results will be.