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Talk to me about the CHAT test
Wes had his 18 month appt yesterday, and they used the CHAT test for autism. I knew already that his not talking was an indicator for being on the autism spectrum, but I did not know about pointing to ask for things or pointing things out being an indicator.
I thought he was on track with everything besides talking, so I am feeling uneducated, blindsided, helpless.
His doctor talked me through that, but said that he didn't think Wesley seemed to be on the spectrum- good eye contact, social (without the talking), waving, signing, etc.
He said if language didn't come we'd eventually talk about a speech pathologist but didn't seem to think we should do that now.
I stupidly came home and Googled autism and pointing and I am now freaking out. What did any of you do to encourage language development. I realize I can't "fix" autism if that's what it is, but I want to do everything I can to help him regardless.
We read every night and normally other times, too. He is read to before nap at home and at daycare. We talk and explain and pause for his response even though he doesn't talk. Any suggestions are appreciated. I am kind of freaking out.... 
Re: Talk to me about the CHAT test
I don't know much about autism so I can't answer your questions. But, I just wanted to offer some virtual (((HUGS))).
Neena Mae. 1/7/10
"A baby nursing at a mother's breast is an undeniable affirmation of our rootedness in nature." - David Suzuki
This exactly. Sorry, I could not be more help!
One of my best friends has a son who didn't talk much until he was 3 or 4 years old. She is a speech and communications teacher - and very expressive herself - so it was surprising and challenging for her. They read books, used flashcards, and did all kinds of other creative play/learning... He just didn't talk until he was ready. As he entered kindergarten, they did further testing and determined he may be somewhere on the spectrum, as he exhibited some other characteristics (often lining up toys/objects, sensory sensitivity, lack of eye contact, etc.). They now have a strong partnership with the school/teachers and have continued to see great improvement in his skills and social interactions.
It sounds like Wes gets lots of positive interaction, which I understand to be one of the most important keys toward development at this age. Babies and children truly are each so unique -- and develop various skills and behaviors at different stages. I would say that if you are comfortable with your doctor, then re-visiting the conversation at his 2-year appointment will be helpful. If you are feeling uncertain and want a second opinion, you could seek out another pediatrician or early childhood specialist now.
Try not to freak out... Being a parent can be so overwhelming! We just want the best for our babies
I am a speech and English teacher, skh emj 2009, so yeah, that doesn't help. I work with HS students though so most of my knowledge on the topic is with that age group.
I think I will at least make a phone call to the AEA. I have one of the AEA who works with my HS students getting her personal recommendation for who to contact.
I am trying to find the balance between being in denial that there could be an issue and going overboard (crazy).
That AEA contact sounds perfect. For me, that would help a lot... I always feel so much better after consulting with someone who is personally recommended by someone I respect. Positive thoughts to you for maintaining that balance! That can often be tough for me, too!