Motherhood Later... Than Sooner Forum

My girl is 26 months and we are facing a possible autism diagnosis. I already suspect, just need the professionals to confirm for hubby sake (he is in denial) and to get treatment/services.

I was running an at-home business...but I put it on hold until I get things with my daughter straightened out.

Anyone else around?

Michelle

We have a very bright little one (almost 8) who has now been diagnosed as being on the edge of the autism spectrum. This is a new diagnosis, only a month and a half, but we have help through the school district for her. For now. I'm currently struggling with the decisions of what to do for school next year.

Interventions are numerous, but since each child is different, the biggest puzzle for me is trying to make sure I'm doing my best for her. We have other issues with our son, but I can see the different needs they have as my kids - I cannot parent them the same way. That makes life quite interesting!

Sorry for the late response - I've not been sure what to say. We also didn't have the diagnosis until the end of January.

I hope you can find some local resources, but that we can support each other too.

Carrie
ML of Anchorage

Hi Michelle,

I have a 16 year old son who was diagnosed at the age of 4 as having an autism spectrum disorder, that is, PDD-NOS. It was new then...it's common now. He wasn't talking, he did regress, he hand-flapped, he toe-walked and he recited. He was/is also very bright, happy, amazing memory. He did not have aversion to being held but he made little eye contact and was/is very sensitive to loud sudden noises.

He didn't really talk until he was 8 but now he is fully integrated at grade level and he is excelling at school. That's right...excelling...honor roll.

I'm telling you all this because "austim" diagnosis does NOT mean your child will automatically be limited. Start services young, but don't panic about a ticking clock, like the one you may hear about regarding language development.

I highly recommend the book Enzymes for Autism. I noticed my son's digestive issues were common among all the kids in his autism ILC (individualized learning center). I support my son's digestive system with enzymes (considered "food" products by the FDA, easily bought wherever supplements are sold) and I am confident it helped his internal systems function better...and his brain functions improve. Please don't stop at the Jenny McCarthy book. Her experience isn't all that new...many kids are on "wheat-free" diets. Enzymes talks about the wheat issue and also clarifies why some kids improved with "secretin"

I also recommend The Einstein Syndrome which puts forth another perspective on certain learning differences which are sometimes dumped into the category of learning disabilities. A child who talks late but can figure out difficult puzzles and machinery at an early age isn't learning "disabled" but GIFTED with a great "math" brain, which sometimes comes at the expense of early language and/or social skills. Still, don't avoid a diagnosis...it can still help a "different" brain get the most out of public education.

Schools are usually very helpful...and they must provide a "free and appropriate public education (fape), which means any excuse of "we don't have the money/resources (etc)---ISN'T YOUR PROBLEM. Some parent driven groups sometimes complain about the money spent on special ed...but again----NOT YOUR PROBLEM. The rules require much of the schools...don't back down...and you can usually expect to get what is your child's right to have in terms of services. Autism usually requires a full day year round program with specialists providing services in addition to the regular ILC teachers. (occupational therapy, speech and language services, etc)

Any questions...feel free to ask!!!
Best wishes
Cindy