My 3 year old son shakes his hands (flaps) during a temper tantrum - is this really an autism sign? Other than a speech delay there aren't any other symptoms, but his school is "certain" he is on the spectrum. He does not cooperatively play with school friends, but does ok w/his sister. Should I believe his school?
Have you ever watched Wheel Of Fortune? Someone guesses the puzzle, gets it right and starts jumping up and down flapping or clapping rapidly. They're not autistic. Kids with autism usually flap their hands as a stim, usually for a visual stimulation caused by the movement of their hands, not in reaction to anything.
Hand flapping during excitement/anger is usually excess energy looking for a way out. A form of expression.
Many 3 yr olds don't play cooperatively with others at school. That doesn't mean autism. I would tell your school that unless they've got extensive experience and have fully evaluated your son with standardized tests designed to diagnose autism that they should keep their opinions to themselves.
When it comes to your child, trust your gut instincts. They are usually right on target.
