Hello- my son is 3 1/2 years old. he has a signifacant speech delay and seems to tune people out. are these signs of autism?

Maybe: Both are features but kids who struggle with communication may try to avoid situations where people are likely to try to engage them in conversation. I would have the kids doc do an autism screening or you can find some online & fill them out.Then proceed to your pcp and find how to get local help.

Possibly: They are non-specific signs of several possible things . Start with his pediatrician and a hearing and speech and language evaluation now early intervention for this is optimal.

All good answers. : "speech" = motor aspect of pronunciation. "language" = both comprehension of spoken words (receptive) & verbalization of thoughts (expressive). Call your local school district's child find team to assess all areas of your son's development & evaluate for autism to determine his eligibility for early childhood special education. Firstsigns.Org has screening tests for both. Please don't delay.

Get hearing tested: Before considering autism make sure you have his hearing tested.