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One-track Minds
Is Your Toddler's Obsession a Sign of Autism?
By Melinda Copp
"Toddlers get all caught up in things – a new toy or a new activity – because every time they do it they get better at it, and they feel good about doing it, and they feel good about themselves," says Dr. Carl Arinoldo, a psychologist and co-author of Essentials of Smart Parenting (Nova Science, 2007).
In other words, your little one is just trying to get the hang of whatever he or she seems obsessed with, which doesn't present a problem as long as your child can be distracted for a little while to learn something new or participate in another activity. Just keep in mind that your child will likely go right back to whatever he was fixated on before you distracted him.
"Give the child time to obsess with the new item, and then suggest a new activity," Arinoldo says. "And don't get mad – that could lead to manipulation if the child senses a way to gain control." Rest assured that your little one will grow out of this obsessing phase. According to Arinoldo, by 4 or 5, most kids stop obsessing and become more flexible.
Nothing is more frightening to parents than a warning sign – any warning sign, whether a probable concern or not. While some degree of obsessing over toys is normal for toddlers, when that behavior appears with other red flags, such as a lack of bonding, eye contact and communication, you should have your child checked. Noticing potential signs of autism and the uncertainty these signs cause are emotionally difficult for all parents.
"Be vigilant," Arinoldo says. "And if you have any doubts, understand that it never hurts to ask a professional." It only takes time and the confidence to trust your parenting instincts.
