Hi,
I feel very un-educated about AS but since I can remember I have had concerns about my 6 year old's eccentric behaviour although he doesn't seem to tick every box for AS. He has an obsession with washing machines and everything to do with them that started when he was about 18 months and has never diminished. I went to the GP alone about it when it really started getting out of hand when he was 4 but was told an almost obsessive interest is not unusual (with washing machines?!) so did not pursue it. He also will only wear 'fluffy' clothes, i.e. soft clothes, no jeans etc. We recently went to the circus and he spent the second half lying on the floor with his hands over his ears, crying that he wanted to go, which I think was a reaction to the lights and noise. He also just has an indefinable odd way about him. However, he does do eye contact and is coping at mainstream school. I just have a nagging feeling all is not quite as it should be but am not sure if I am on the right track with AS? Can anyone help please?!

I'm new to this site and I was reading your message. I would suggest talking to your doctor about refering you to a child psychiatrist. Our son was diagnosed recently after 12 years of trying and treating him for everything else. Your child sounds very much like AS. Once we got a referal, the doctor looked at him and said "He has Asperger's." We were ther for 5 minutes and he knew what it was. He underwent psychological testing anyway. He also has ADHD, Tourette Syndrome, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (usually assosiated wit AS, and a heart condition. This is the best route to getting a diagnose. Our two boys (the youngest is being tested now) are going to counselling to learn to control their emotions and other people's teasing, as well as to occupational therapy.