Thank you for all your replies, they have been most helpful. I have had this child for about 2 full weeks now and have had many frustrating moments but a lot of very enjoyable moments in learning to interact with him. I am learning that patience and consistency are key as well as using very short, simple and direct statement in order to get my point across. So far we have developed a very good relationship and he really enjoys coming to my home every day. I have asked the mum to fill out a questionairre that I have filled out in order to understand her son's level of autism a bit more. Hopefully I will receive it next week. Thanks again for all of your much valued advice.