This is a question I get all the time!
This can be a difficult subject to discuss. You do not want to offend your friend or relative, but you also have the best intentions for the little one. In addition there can be some cultural aspects that may make it more difficult to bring up.
This is my opinion, and if you disagree, please feel free to let me know in the comments. If you have further advice, also let me know in the comments.
It is important a child who may need intervention get it sooner than later. Bringing up your concern to the parents can be an important step in getting the child skilled help.
There is a chance the parents may not be aware or in denial of possible Autism characteristics. Hearing the concern from a loved one can help bring awareness to the family. Before you discuss this with the mom and dad, make sure you do research by looking at several places to make sure your concern is warranted.
There may also be a chance the family is seeking help, but hasn’t informed you. If that’s the case, you may not want to ask too many more questions, because it is a possibility the family wants to keep it private. If that’s the case, don’t feel embarrassed, but feel assured things are getting done.
If you decide to approach, then it should be gentle and as diplomatic as possible. Use your best judgement and knowledge of the parents personality when deciding how to approach the subject. An example can be “I want to talk to you about something I have noticed. Please know if I offend, it is not my intention. I am coming to you because I have little Adriana’s best intention in mind. I noticed she does not speak like other children her age. What are your thoughts? or Have you spoken to her pediatrician?” Adjust this as needed.
Let me know your thoughts!
“It takes a village to raise a child!” ~ Nigerian proverb
