Hi, Has your son been evaluated by a psychologist or neuropsychologist? Its difficult to give advice without seeing your son. But, broadly speaking, I wonder if he might do better in a special school for kinds with ASD and other disorders like his? Large groups of people or tough on kids like your son. He may be anxious and withdrawn at school. Kids with ASD generally dont do well with a lot of noise and stimulation. My recommendation would be to look for a school with a smaller class size that can focus on your son. Kind Regards Brooke E Hillary ph.D. Licensed Clinical Psychologist Www.drbrookehillary.com HTTPSdoxymedrbrookehillary

He may just have an anxiety disorder this alone doesnt indicate a diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder. You should have him evaluated by a child psychologist. Melanie Sholtis, Psy.D. Licensed Psychologist 2402109003

Yes, anxiety is very common in kids with autismespecially around changes like going to school. Tummy aches can be a way young kids show stress, even if they cant put it into words. Its also common for kids with ASD to act differently at school than at home. He might be holding it together at school but feeling overwhelmed inside, which can come out as being very quiet or reserved. If it keeps happening, it might help to talk with a psychologist who understands autism and anxiety in kidsthey can offer support and practical tools for both home and school.

Yes, it is common for children with ASD to be anxious.

I think that theres probably some comorbidity between asd and anxiety, yes. I would have to consult the literature but it would certainly make sense that a child who feels different probably experiences anxiety. I always advise checking with your healthcare provider for an appropriate treatment plan. Lindsay

Hi thereyes, its actually very common for kids with autism to experience anxiety, especially around transitions or social situations like school. What youre describingtummy aches before school, being unusually quiet at school, but loud and expressive at homeis something I hear often.

Many autistic kids internalize their stress, and physical symptoms like stomach aches can be one of the ways that anxiety shows up. Its also really common for them to mask at schoolbasically hiding their true selves to fit in or avoid standing out. That might be why the teachers see him as quiet and wellbehaved, but youre seeing a totally different side at home.

Youre definitely not alone in this. If the anxiety is becoming a pattern or affecting his daytoday life, it might help to talk to a psychologist who specializes in autism. They can help sort out whats going on and figure out some supports that fit his needsnot just what works for most kids.

Youre doing great noticing these patterns and advocating for him earlyit really makes a difference.

Have you asked his therapist ? Anxiety travels with many diagnoses. Somatizing being sick is clearly a way children deal with anxiety

It sounds like your son wants to do the right things to be accepted by his peers and internalizes his emotions. He is young so be encouraging and supportive of his endeavors.

It sounds like he may have school anxiety and a condition called selective mutism. He should be referred to a specialist in children who treats anxiety based disorders and is familiar in working With children with ASD. I would recommend a PHD rather than a masters level provider unless they are specifically trained.

Sometimes kids do behave differently in a school than at home. It can be due to anxiety. It can also be that they are expending a lot of energy at school and then can’t hold it together when they get home.

Good luck with your son!

It was quite common for kids with asd to have anxiety. He could have had kids bugging him about talking loudly or otherwise bullying or excluding him which could then make him very anxious; hence, wanting to avoid school. Hope that helps!

Good morning and thank you for reaching out with your question.

Autism Spectrum Disorder is a condition that affects many aspects of development. The development of language ability is affected, as is the understanding and quality of social interactions. Children who are on the spectrum will demonstrate behaviors, habits, or interests that tend to be rigid and repetitive. The may also have difficulty with sensory integration.

With the differences in the way that their bodies and brains process all types of information, it is also very common for those on the spectrum to deal with feelings of anxiety, panic, and/or repetitive or intrusive thoughts. From your description it does sound as if your son is experiencing some anxieties that may be related to school. Although his academic performance may be fine and his teacher does not feel that he is a disruption, he may lack the language to express these feelings, or may feel that he should keep them to himself. Speaking at a regular volume at school may be anxiety-provoking for him.

I would recommend that you consult with a psychologist who specializes in working with children who have developmental disabilities. Getting control of your son's school anxieties while he is young will help him to see school as a positive and supportive place as he ages.

Aja Temple, Ph.D.

This answer is for informational purposes only and does not constitute treatment.

Anxiety is the most common comorbid disorder for people with autism. You little guy sounds like he is likely having classic childhood anxiety symptoms. Just in case though, have you taken him to his pediatrician to be sure there are no medical issues occurring? Better safe than sorry in this regard.

Many kids with autism do well in school, but then "fall apart" when they get home. Even if he enjoys it, the complex social and behavioral demands are often really stressful for kids with ASD. The fact that you mention he is very quiet at school but not at home add strength to your thoughts about anxiety.

If the tummy symptoms have been occurring for more than the 1st few weeks of school, then it might be time to talk with a therapist. Depending on your son's communication skills, family therapy or art/music therapy might help him find ways to identify his stress and express it. Once you have ideas about what seems to be stressful for him you can work with the school to eliminate those elements as much as possible.

Have a chat wit the school counselor, special education person, and/or school psychologist about your concerns. See what they might suggest. If that isn't enough, then consider seeing a therapist. One who specializes in treating children with ASD might be especially helpful.

It is not uncommon for young children to have anxiety issues. Hopefully you have him in individual and group therapy. At school, should have an IED.

I'm sorry to hear of your concerns with your son. Do you know if he has any concerns of being bullied or getting reprimanded by adults for mistakes? Are you able to discern whether his stomach ache complaints are efforts to get extra attention from you? Do you know if his school providers are knowledgeable about ASD and your son's particular needs? You may benefit from talking to his school counselor or taking him to an outside mental health provider who specializes in ASD to help you with recommendations.

If can be at times and for certain children. You can talk to him about letting him know that it will be alright. Just try to ease him in many ways. Tell him that you use to be nervous when you were his age or that others are at times. We were all nervous at times and still are at our age now.