Toe walking or walking on the ball of the foot can be common in children who are learning how to walk. However, most children outgrow toe walking by two years old. Those who continue toe walking after age two may have formed the habit of toe walking known as idiopathic toe walking. However toe walking can also indicate other more serious conditions. You should watch your child for symptoms or signs of underlying condition such as cerebral palsy, autism, short Achilles tendon, or developmental disorders.

Adopting a special needs child with severe autism may be more of a commitment and life-changing event than a family may realize during the planning and visiting phase of adoption. Invitations from friends and extended family members may stop suddenly when these people realize that you have an autistic child. For some reason, parents of “normal” children act like autism may be contagious and they do not want their children playing with your special child. Because the repetitive behaviors of autistic children may seem strange or disruptive to teachers, you may find that your child is not welcome in local clubs, playgroups, or even church classes. You may hear things like, we just are not equipped to deal with an autistic child.