Is it possible that my 8 month old daughter is autistic? I know this isn't the right sub, but I'm too afraid to ask anyone I know.

She's 8 months old. She has a 30 month follow up appointment for her autism screening. She started babbling and smiling more recently but still doesn't respond to her name and has been doing the same things (like clapping when she's excited or when she sees us) for months. She has always been very clingy and she can be very upset if we try to use baby sign language with her, but she just doesn't respond to us when we try to interact with her. My pediatrician said it's normal for babies to be shy at that age. I just want to know what I'm working with and I'd appreciate any input I can get.<br><br>UPDATE: Thank you to everyone who has taken the time to comment or message. I've read and appreciated everyone's responses. I did read the comments that some people made about "babies with autism don't smile" and I don't agree with that. My sister has autism and she was smiling and interacting with us from day one. I also appreciate the comments that I'm overthinking everything. My husband and I have been worried for a while and I just want what's best for our baby. We have been working with her and we have seen some progress. She's still very shy, but she's also very social with us. She doesn't like to be in her car seat so she's been sleeping on her back. I know that might be the cause of some of the issues we're seeing with her. She still doesn't seem to be paying attention to us or responding to her name when we're in a crowded place. We are hoping that she'll be able to navigate it better as she gets older. I appreciate all of the comments and advice I've received.