Aidan, Autistic?

Yes, that question came up again yesterday. As I was driving to Aidan's pre-school to pick him up yesterday, I received a phone call from the Director of the school. She wanted to set up a time to discuss some of Aidan's behaviors that they are concerned about. When I arrived at the preschool, I briefly chatted with her. They are a little concerned about his obsession with opening and closing doors, washing his hands, and interacting with other children. Apparently, they observed Aidan pushing a kid, even though he wasn't provoked or the kid wasn't in his way. As if he wanted to get their attention, but did not know how to approach the kid, except to hit or push. Aidan would run around in circles and when he stopped, he had this daze-like look. She recommended me contacting the school district to have a specialist to observe Aidan's behavior. They would e-mail me notes of what the teachers have observed, and the specialist could come to school to observe Aidan as well.

I personally, do not think Aidan is autistic. He is very affectionate, has great eye contact, and loves to smile and makes up funny faces. He is obsessed with doors, traffic lights and elevators. If we have to categorize him, I would say he is more obsessive-compulsive with poor impulse control, and maybe ADHD since he likes to run around and can't sit down. But then, aren't most 3-year olds like that? Do we always have to be overly sensitive and label our children so that we can find the 'correct' diagnosis? Can't children be like children, run around and have fun anymore?

I am not a specialist, so I can't say what I think is right. If Aidan is autistic, it's best to start therapy to help him. I am not opposed to contacting the school district to have him evaluated. It would give me the peace of him if he's ok. If not, we'll do whatever intervention necessary to help him. Most importantly, if I don't do it, the school might bug me again in the future. Let's just put the issue at rest by doing what's best for Aidan.

How much stress can one endure emotionally, psychologically, physically, before the body breaks or shuts down?