Samuel is a 2 ½ -year-old boy who just started preschool a week ago.

Samuel is a 2 ½ -year-old boy who just started preschool a week ago. He appears to be preverbal (except for some shrieks and grunts) and prefers to play alone. During group activities, Samuel often slips away to the corner of the room and occupies himself by pulling fibers from the carpet or by lying on his back to closely inspect his index finger. He has poor eye contact and when called upon appears as though he is deaf. He flinches when he is touched or runs off to avoid contact. Miss Flowers must redirect him often by taking his hand and walking him over to the group area.

     During free play, Samuel consistently walks over to the toy box, pulls out the red truck, and proceeds to spin its wheels. When outdoors, he walks over to the sandbox, squats, and sifts sand through his fingers.

Samuel doesn’t appear to be aware of what is going on around him. When other children approach him, he doesn’t turn to acknowledge them. Sometimes, if they sit next to him in the sandbox, he will step over their legs and find another spot to sit and sift sand.

     During snack time or lunch, Samuel sniffs his food before eating it, and refuses to try anything new. He will however, eat cheese sandwiches minus the crust from the bread, and he especially appears to enjoy sipping on apple juice from a straw and snacking on fish crackers.

What emotions emerge after reading this vignette?

List the behaviors you find disturbing in the scenario above and explain why.

What do you suppose is going on with Samuel?

What recommendations would you make for Samuel’s progress?