Frequently asked questions
Is “virtual autism” a diagnosis?
No. It is a phrase parents use, not a diagnosis, and the book never presents it as one. The book explains where the phrase came from, what the research has found and why many researchers and autistic adults object to it.
Is “virtual autism” the same as autism?
No. Autism is a lifelong difference, and autistic children and adults deserve respect and support. “Virtual autism” is a phrase, not a diagnosis: some parents use it when a toddler in a screen-heavy home shows delays that look like early signs of autism, and only an evaluation can say what is behind those delays.
Does the book say screens cause autism?
No. Autism is a lifelong, highly heritable difference. The book sets out what large studies have found about screens and early development, and is clear that those studies show associations, not causes.
Why does the book say no screens before six, when most guidelines say two?
Most health authorities draw the line at two, and France, Germany and China at three; thirteen Spanish medical societies say none before six. The book takes that later line as a precaution: young children learn little from a screen, and the risks studies find rise with hours and an early start; none of the studies, in the book’s reading, has found a downside to a screen-free early childhood. Michel Desmurget, a French neuroscientist, recommends no screens for recreation before six (Screen Damage, 2023), and Lori Frome advised parents to keep children “as screen-free as possible” until four (Healthy Screen Habits Podcast, season 14, episode 11, November 2025). No study proves that six is the right line, and the book says so.
Is this book medical advice?
No. It shares general information. If you are concerned about your child’s development, talk to your child’s doctor. In the United States, if your child is under three, you can also contact your state’s early-intervention program yourself; the evaluation is free.
Who is the book for?
Parents and grandparents of babies and young children, caregivers, teachers, and the clinicians who work with families.
What formats are available?
Paperback, hardcover and ebook. See the book page for stores.
Is there an audiobook or a translation?
There is no audiobook yet. A Spanish Kindle edition, Autismo virtual, is available; other editions will be listed on the book page when they are.
How do refunds work?
Books bought from a store such as Amazon follow that store’s return policy. For anything bought on this website, see Terms.
Does the book name the family in its story?
No. Details that could identify the family have been changed or left out wherever possible.
Can I quote the book or use the handouts?
Brief quotations for reviews and commentary are welcome. The book’s copyright page explains what readers may copy: the letters and handout in appendix A, the screen diary, questions, script and checklist in chapter 19 and the reader’s guide, for a family or for a school, program or group, as long as the copies are not sold.