Lestyrox - i think our story is a little different as Xander was different from the get go. We have a very strong family history ofautism on DH's side with 3 kids now on the spectrum and another one (2yrs old) showing traits.

Waving goodbye - yep never really got that. Even today DS will rarely acknowledge someone saying hello or goodbye - but at times I really admire him as he really doesn't care what others think about him (most of the time anyway) god I would love to have that self-confidence :-) He is happy in his world and that's the main thing.

Autism is so difficult because the kids are all so different. I would love to hear some of the other mums tell their story cause they would probably be so different yet have some similarities. As for being "quirky" and OK - absolutely there are a lot of people who have autistic tendencies but not enough to be on the spectrum. My gosh I think we all have a few tendencies don't we. DH and I often joke about how 'autistic' we are and no wonder Xander is the super kid he is with us as his genetic blueprints :-) I guess it's really a waiting game for you to see if he needs help as he goes along. I would stay in close contact with the daycare - be upfront about your suspicions so they feel open in discussing any issues with you. Early intervention has the best outcomes for these gorgeous kids so it's good to get help early as things present themselves.

I know just what you mean about not being there. It's hard to let these little ones go off on their own but good too as they have to learn there own ways of coping and interacting in the world - even if it isn't the way we would do things. I found it interesting when we had some professionals point out how much I protected Xander from changes/differences and people just out of mummy instinct. Had to take some BIG steps back so we could let xander find his own feet and work on his issues :-)

wishing you all the best - hope daycare goes well