From the time my oldest daughter was 2, it was suspected that she might have autism. We have walked the path of therapy, research, anxiety, blame, despair, evaluation after evaluation, so I know quite well how other parents with children who have special needs feel. After a full individual evaluation, it was determined that Imma does not meet the criteria for an autism diagnosis at this time and in fact, she is doing tremendously well now and most likely never will fit that criteria. Nevertheless, she is a special needs child and I can certainly identify with parents who are in the process of having their child evaluated or who have received a diagnosis of autism. It is not an easy journey by any means and these parents, like the parents of all children with special needs, sincerely need the support of the entire community. If you know a family with a special needs child, please consider finding a way to assist that family. Even if it's just bringing by a pizza or some groceries, taking the time to stay with the child while the parents go out, or bringing by something you know the child likes, your small act of kindness will mean so much.
 |
| My daughter at 2 1/2, just as we were beginning the journey toward evaluation |
I have a personal blog where I've talked at great lengths about our journey. You can find that blog here if you'd like to read more. I have spoken to many parents, teachers, grandparents, and family friends who have concerns about children and they are not sure what to do. My best advice is to encourage parents to speak to their pediatricians if you suspect there may be some symptoms of autism present. If you are a parent and you are having some concerns about your own child, a simple visit to the doctor can either relieve your fears or put you on a path toward diagnosis and treatment. Early detection is so critically important. Trust me, ignoring symptoms or explaining them away will not help your child. Only the experts can do that.
Early signs of autism can include, but are not limited to:
speech delays
regression in speech
lack of social awareness
repetitive movements, such as rocking, spinning or arm flapping
repetitive activities, such as sorting toys or lining them up
lack of eye contact
For my family, it was a regression in speech coupled with changes in social behavior and a lack of awareness that caused us to speak to our pediatrician. Imma received therapy through Early Childhood Intervention and attended two years of the Preschool Program for Children with Disabilities before starting kindergarten this year. She also received outside speech and occupational therapy. She continues to have speech services through our school district as well as support from a special education teacher. Imma is extremely intelligent but struggles with language processing and some sensory integration. Though we do not believe she has autism, these disorders can look very similar to autism and only trained experts can determine exactly what is causing the differences. This is why it is critical to speak to a pediatrician as soon as one notices early signs of developmental differences.
There are many sources of information about autism online but my favorite website is Autism Speaks. It is extremely user friendly and straightforward. If you have questions or need resources, I strongly suggest you visit this website.
1 in 88 children is now diagnosed with autism. Chances are, if you're an educator, you know several children on the autism spectrum. If you haven't done so, please take some time to get to know these amazing children. Thank their teachers. Encourage their parents. Awareness means doing what we can to make a difference and today is the day to do just that. Light it up blue!
No comments:
Post a Comment