Firstly, I get where the worry comes from – it’s such a natural reaction as a parent to want to make sure everything’s going good with your lil one. Walking at 18 months ain’t usually a big deal; kiddos hit milestones at different times, but the stuff about his social interactions is worth chatting about.
Alright, so about the rare smiles and limited eye contact – that can mean a lotta things, some kids just do things in their own quirky way, you know? But it’s a good idea to maybe check in with a pediatrician or a specialist who can spend some time with him and give you some peace of mind.
Those squirting eye things you mentioned, it might be nothing big, but could also hint at something like a muscle twitch or mild issue that needs a look-see. Could be related to eye muscle development or something like that. But it could also be nothing. Still, with everything combined, a doc could give you a clearer picture.
From an Ayurvedic angle, ensure he has a stable daily routine involving regular sleep and eating times. Ayurveda swears by routines for balancing doshas and promoting health. Gentle massages with warm sesame oil can be calming for kids, promoting a feeling of connection and relaxation – which may in some cases help with eye contact and responsiveness.
Also, if there’s been changes in his environment or family dynamics, it might affect his behavior too. Stress in kids can come from things we might not even think about. Try engaging him with singing, play or colorful picture books to spark his joy and interaction. Sometimes, more engagement can help notch up the excitement and smiles.
Definitely, though, don’t hesitate in seeing someone about it, especially if those eye squints keep happening or if the behaviors start seeming more pronounced. Your intuition’s golden; if you feel something’s up, it’s always best to follow through with a professional. I hope all is well with your lil guy soon!