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How Temple Grandin Inspired Me to Move Forward

November 7, 2014 Pamela Bryson-Weaver 1 Comment

There comes a point in our lives where we felt so much is happening at the same time. Publishing my own book, for instance, is one rollercoaster ride. Apart from the excitement and chaotic schedule to keep up with, there is nothing more thrilling than receiving that one phone call that says it all—a call from Temple Grandin. Yes! Dr. Grandin!

Dr. Grandin is a renowned name in the realm of Autism Spectrum Disorder. She is a professor, inventor, best-selling author, and rock star rolled-into-one in the seemingly divergent fields of animal science and Autism education. She was also featured in the award-winning 2010 biographical film, and was listed in the Time 100 Most InfluentialDr. Grandin is a renowned name in the realm of Autism Spectrum Disorder. She is a professor, inventor, best-selling author, and rock star rolled-into-one in the seemingly divergent fields of animal science and Autism education. People in the World in its Heroes Category. A world-renown expert and resource person for ASDs, and a famous author of various books including The Autistic Brain, a personal call from her in my own home left me panting for breath (literally!) due to too much excitement and glee. Add her personal endorsement on my book, which states– “Living autism day.by.day will help parents to persevere and meet the challenges of raising a child with severe autism” — and I was literally swept off my feet! It was a defining moment for me, one that I’ll surely cherish for a lifetime.

As a parent advocate and go-to Autism mom, I know how my wise advice, knowledge, expertise and hands-on experience on raising a child with autism can reach a wide number of families out there in times when they are struggling on what needs to be done and how to do it to keep their minds and emotions on the level just as the struggle seem to engulf them in a deep abyss. With two of my children having special needs (John, my youngest son, has Autism), I know what it feels to be alone in a room full of people and you felt like screaming so they will understand what you’re going through. I know what it feels like to find yourself immersed in strings upon strings of questions with no ready answer at hand. I know how it feels to be lost and hoping to be found. My book deals mostly on:

what is offered in the field of Autism Spectrum Disorders for services and professionals…
what everything means that you will hear about in the world of autism…
what types of feelings, emotions and issues you will deal with on a personal level as a parent or caregiver…

I was often told that I have the gift of story-telling and a deep sense of compassion and understanding, and that is precisely where my book got its inspiration. It is meant to provide answers. It is designed to give a reader hope and deep sense of understanding, on a personal level, from someone who is just like you, undergoing the same woes, joys, grief, delight, and mixed euphoria on the often-isolated and often-misunderstood life with autism.

Like everyone else, I too lived through the same fears, agony, and joys that this wonder-rific world of Autism brings. I am neither a doctor nor a therapist, but as a parent to a child with Autism, I know that often, the most insights your family needs can come from another parent’s heart. Yes, my book is written from the bottom of my heart and crafted out of my sincere intention to reach out to parents, mothers and fathers alike, caregivers, family, and close friends who find themselves engulfed in a new set of emotional roller coaster ride with Autism.

With the encouragement from Dr. Temple Grandin, the support of my dear family and friends, and the help of my publisher, Freedom Abound Press, “Living Autism Day By Day” has become quite an indispensable reference on all things one wants to know about autism. Concisely formatted on a daily basis, it is meant to fit to your hectic life and increase your level of awareness, emotional sensitivity, practical mindset, and yes, good humor.

Do feel free to check out snippets from my book via my website– http://livingautismnow.com/book/. You may also buy it here: http://livingautismnow.com/buy-now/. For discounted BULK orders, simply call Freedom Abound Press at 506.471.7440 or send us a note at info@LivingAutismNow.com.

Writing this book and knowing that I am able to help a lot of parents, caregivers, families and friends out there deal with Autism truly put me in high spirits. It is one thing to experience it all, and another to be able to let somebody in on how I was able to get through it all, and still come out ecstatic, jovial and whole.

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Autism and Disciplinary Intervention: Keeping Your Child Grounded

November 3, 2014 Pamela Bryson-Weaver Leave a comment

The current rise of Autism Spectrum Disorders cases came as a shock to many. This wide-ranging spectrum of disorders ranging from mild to severe do not only have a known “cure” but also lack concrete details on their likely causes. As statistics rise over the years and more challenges are set, parents, caregivers and educators will need more and more information and training on managing these challenging (and often, baffling) behaviors that are part and parcel of ASDs.

Common symptoms of ASD include dismal social skills, extreme rigidity, verbal impairment, obsessive routines, and uncontrollable preoccupation on objects. Most children with ASD display intense behavior and sudden changes can easily develop into horrendous temper tantrums or rage episodes commonly known as meltdowns. For children as young as 2 to 7, this condition may still be manageable but can be quite scary as they grow older. To prevent such from happening, the following disciplinary interventions can be done:

1. Direct and Controlled Verbal Message. Make use of direct but calm verbal message. Tone of voice must be neutral and the use of short, simple commands must be directly communicated to the child without giving an opportunity for choice. A no is a no! There should be no room for maybe. Do remember that kids living on the spectrum do not understand social cues. By being direct and “literal”, you can prevent them feeling overwhelmed by choices that their brains have a hard time processing.

2. Avoid Power Struggles. Confrontation can be overwhelming to a child with autism. As they tend to be “fixated” on things, engaging them in confrontation and power struggles can easily escalate into negative results. In most cases, this could lead to aggression that can be detrimental to the child’s safety or those around them.

3. Consistency is the key. Be firm and consistent when providing expectations. The more predictable the consequences to their behavior are presented, the easier it is for their brains to process and understand. Children with autism are fixed on “routine.” When transitions and change happens, the result can be dreadful.

4. Reward System. In the same way as treating toddlers, reward system is beneficial to children living on the spectrum. You can give reward to desirable behaviors as an “incentive.” On the other hand, limiting their interactions as well as stopping all desired requests can give them an idea the “good” and “bad” side of their behavior.

5. Proactive Approach. Beat the heat by being proactive. Try to avoid known triggers and provide a more structured environment. When changes are inevitable, it is important to teach your kids proper transitioning from one environment or situation to the next. This is one way of easing their discomfort and preventing the release of their panic button.

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Autism: Putting Sleeping Woes to Rest

October 29, 2014 Pamela Bryson-Weaver Leave a comment

Sleep can be quite a challenge to children with autism. At most 80% of children on the spectrum encounter sleep issues which can be disruptive to their progress. Sleep, as we all know, is a vital component in maintaining good health. It is not only essential for physical growth it also helps restore bodily functions, puts a shield to the body’s immune system, and enhances memory and learning.

For kids with autism, sleeping problems can heavily impact daytime behaviors. This insufficient sleep, when gone unattended, can turn their behavior from bad to worst. Autism sleep problems do not only affect the child per se, this also adds stress to the parents, siblings, and caregivers leading to more challenges.

Likely Causes
To combat sleep deprivation, it is imperative to first look at the likely causes of such difficulties. One of the most common reasons for sleep deprivation of kids with autism is environmental influence. It could be the physical aspect of his bedroom, of the people that surrounds him, or inadvertent behavioral shaping from a parent. The bedroom might be where he engages in play activities, or a parent must have been used to rocking her child to sleep leading to dependency, or too much noise in the neighborhood. Be reminded that children on the spectrum are ultra sensitive to light, touch and sounds.

Tips to A Goodnight’s Sleep
Children with autism often follow a consistent routine, and sleeping is no different. As a parent, it is important that you keep a sleep diary where you keep track of his sleeping time and take note of nighttime awakenings. This can require some efforts for at least a month so you can establish a pattern and be aware to various environmental factors contributing to the sleeping issues of your loved one.

Creating a visual schedule like a chart can be a useful tool to keep him informed and establish a routine. Try to infuse fun to the chart. Kids with autism can be highly visual in nature, and capturing their visual senses can often lead to a more relaxed routine set-up.

Try to establish a relaxed and calming atmosphere prior to bedtime. You may engage yourself, along with your child, with classical music to soothe their usually cranky nerves. Music is a universal language and, according to studies, many children with autism respond positively to classical music than any other genre. This type of music does not only calm their senses, it also enhances brain functions leading to their progress. Some children also respond better to hypnotic chants and sounds of nature. The key in all these, however, is consistency.

Some circadian rhythm disturbances to children with ASD can also be due to a medical condition. Allergies, acid reflux, sleep apnea, seizures, and night terrors are some of the most common medical conditions that ASD children have. These conditions require serious medical intervention to ensure safety and health of the child. To some, working with a sleep specialist can prove to be helpful.

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Music Therapist: Kimberly Arsenault BMT, MTA, BA Psyc.

October 13, 2014 Pamela Bryson-Weaver 7 Comments

Meet Kimberly Arsenault, an accredited music therapist living in Fredericton, New Brunswick. Receiving a Bachelor of Music Therapy from Acadia University in 2012, in addition to a Bachelor of Arts with first class honors in Psychology from UNB Fredericton in 2008, she is a music therapist accredited (MTA) with the Canadian Association for Music Therapy.

What is music therapy? Music therapy, as defined by the Canadian Music Therapy Association, “…is the skillful use of music and musical elements by an accredited music therapist to promote, maintain, and restore mental, physical, emotional, and spiritual health…used in the therapeutic relationship to facilitate contact, interaction, self-awareness, learning, self-expression, communication, and personal development.”

Music therapy can be used with clients from across the lifespan, from the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) to those in palliative care. One population that music therapy has been found to be very beneficial for, are those individuals who have received a diagnosis of autism or who are on the autistic spectrum. Some of the most common care concerns for those with autism are in the social, communicative, and behavioral areas. Music therapy can help in addressing these issues, in addition to others. The music therapist would work in collaboration with parents and if applicable, other members of the care team, in order to help them reach established goals through the use of music and musical elements.
Perhaps the individual with autism may experience difficulty with speech – the music therapist can use the structure and predictability of a song in order to show the child their role in a song. Through this, it gives them confidence in their contribution to the music. This can then become transferable to outside of the music therapy environment and into everyday life.

Music is an important part of play – it is natural to see individuals moving, dancing and singing along with music. Music therapists can also use music in order to help autistic individuals express themselves and communicate with others. We can focus on taking turns, listening skills, understanding direction, participating in a group, and waiting. Music therapists can also use music therapeutically in order to teach everyday skills, such as brushing teeth, tying shoes, etc.

Music therapy is adaptable and is tailored to what the individual requires, is capable of at the time, and what their preferences are. The music therapy sessions work towards established goals for the individual.

Music therapists use a variety of different intervention techniques, such as the playing of instruments, improvisation, singing, the use of musical games, and listening to music. Music therapists can use common songs that are pre-composed (E.g., “Old MacDonald Had a Farm”), songs that have been composed specifically for music therapy. Music therapists are also trained to improvise songs based on the current situational need. Although the music therapist creates a session plan, they are prepared to be adaptable and flexible depending on the immediate scenario.

Below you will find links to music therapy research for those with autism. For more information on music therapy in general, you may visit the Canadian Association for Music Therapy (CAMT) website at: http://www.musictherapy.ca/en/ or the Atlantic Association for Music Therapy (AAMT) website at: http://atlanticmusictherapy.ca/index.php.

Here are some articles/videos describing further why music therapy is effective for those with autism:
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/ronna-kaplan-ma/music-therapy-autism_b_2007561.html

http://www.mewsicmoves.com/blog/5-reasons-why-music-therapy-is-effective-for-children-with-autism

If you are in the Fredericton and surrounding area and are interested in connecting with Kimberly, she can be reached at: kimberlyarsenaultmt@gmail.com.

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GFCF Diet: Foods to Eat and Avoid

September 5, 2014 Pamela Bryson-Weaver 1 Comment

Following a gluten-free, casein-free diet is one of the most popular methods among parents to children with autism. Though research remains inconclusive, a number of parents have show great support in vouching the effectiveness of the said diets. Not only does this diet treat children-with-autism’s gastrointestinal and allergy issues, it has also been known to result in lower meltdowns, hyperactivity, allergies and skin rashes, and seizures.

The GFCF Diet requires two basic protein eliminations – dairy and wheat—from a child with autism’s diet. This can be somewhat complicated as proteins are essential nutrients needed for children’s development. To some children with autism, however, these two groups of protein can make matters worse. To get you started on your GFCF Diet, here are some food lists to aid in your menu preparation.

What to Buy

Milk substitutes like rice milk, soy milk, hemp milk, and almond milk. Be attentive to the label though. It should not only state “dairy-free” but “casein-free.” Some dairy-free milk substitutes contain the casein protein as a thickener.
Soy-based dairy-free cheese products; make sure it’s casein-free
gluten-free bread usually made from tapioca or rice flour
minimally processed or, if possible, fresh meat out of the butcher’s den; if prepackaged, make sure to check label for the list of ingredients.
fresh poultry
fresh seafoods
fresh fruit and vegetables; if frozen, make sure it is not soaked in sauces or flavorings.
eggs do not contain gluten or casein but be mindful of the oil used in cooking

You can try shopping at a nearby farmers market or Whole Foods store near you for GFCF food brands. Vancouver has Cambie, Robson, and Kitsilano. Ontario has Oakville, Unionville, and Squage 1 Missisauga. There is also one in West Vancouver and another in Toronto – Yorkville.

What Not to Buy

foods containing gluten, such as, wheat, barley, rye, millet and oats
foods containing casein, such as, cheese, yogurt, cow/goat/lamb milk, breast milk, ice cream, and other dairy-based foods such as pasta, baked products, and sports drinks
prepackaged foods may sometimes be labeled as gluten-free or dairy-free or both, but do check the label closely as casein can be used as an ingredient

Indeed, autism spectrum disorders are complex neurological and developmental condition which still has no cure and no known causes. Though ABA therapies and other forms of treatments have been available, parents cannot help but find ways and means to make life a little easier for their kids on the spectrum. The GFCF Diet continually make waves nowadays but, before you engage your child on this diet, it is imperative that you seek out the advice of an accredited physician or nutrition/diet expert with hands-on experience on autism treatment to guarantee safety and health of your child.

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10 Methods of Autism Intervention

September 2, 2014 Pamela Bryson-Weaver 1 Comment

There is no doubt that early intervention can best deliver progress and results to children living in the shadows of Autism Spectrum Disorders and other developmental disorders. Autism Spectrum Disorders, or ASD, have a variety of treatments and therapies duly called “intervention” by experts.

It is important to understand that one intervention method can work for a child with autism but may not work with another. This is because each spectrum in ASDs is unique from each other. Any of these can overlap one another but, all the same, the effect can vary from child to child.

To understand about how Autism Spectrum Disorders are usually treated, here are some broad categories usually used for interventions. These are random ones picked from various resources. Treatment for ASD can be comprehensive and intensive, and research is still ongoing on various treatments, likely causes, and other factors which could aid in completing the puzzle. So, if you know another method, feel free to comment at the bottom of the page.

1. Standard Healthcare Services

Designed primarily to maintain good health and well-being of children with autism, these include wide-ranging “conventional” (widely-accepted) treatments, therapies and/or interventions carried out by health care professionals such as doctors, occupational and physical therapists, psychologists, speech-language therapists, and many more. A variety of approaches and methods are usually combined on these services. For example, an ABA expert working with a speech pathologist and occupational therapists to provide complete intervention to a child or adult with autism.

2. Complementary/Alternative Medicine

Let’s point out the difference. Complementary medicine usually works together with standard healthcare services while alternative medicine works in place of conventional techniques. Paediatricians with background on autism can work alongside speech therapists or a chiropractor when engaging in complementary medicine intervention. Alternative medicine, on the other hand, is the type of intervention that replaces standard healthcare services. Naturopaths, for instance, can work singlehandedly in “correcting” chemical imbalance on an individual-with-autism’s body.

3. Developmental and Behavioral Interventions

These intervention techniques revolve on teaching and coaching. Behavioral therapies are customarily designed to promote appropriate or independent behavior and inhibit unsuitable behavior. Desired behavior is usually broken down into specific tasks taught in a structured manner.
On the other hand, developmental interventions are aimed at a child’s core deficits. Therapists and parents as well as special education teachers work together in engaging a child’s own interest to enhance communication, affection, social interaction, logical reasoning, and so on.

4. Psychotherapy

Psychotherapeutic intervention is a range of treatments with one or more processes that completely allow an individual with autism to fully comprehend his abilities and challenges. Counseling is one form of psychotherapy which can take many forms. It can be just plain “talking” with a therapist his innermost thoughts while others engage in counseling through creative art form like music or dance. Some counseling are done to improve speech/communication, and social interaction.

5. Medications

Widely known as medicines or pharmaceutical drugs, this type of intervention is usually prescribed to cure or treat a medical diagnosis. They are sometimes classified according to their chemical properties, therapeutic effects, mode of administration, and so on. Some medicines are also used nutritional supplements.

6. Biomedical’ Interventions

Biomedical means the application of biological/physiological sciences to clinical medicine. Though this could mean a lot of things to different people, most individuals living with autism know that this refers to a set of interventions designed to stop or reduce biomedical issues that usually trigger or worsen symptoms and issues faced by those living in the spectrum. Though often considered as part of complementary or alternative medicine, this group of intervention is usually more specific. Some examples of biomedical intervention includes the GFCF diet (strict enforcement), use of nutritional supplements and hormones, hyperbaric oxygen therapy, chelation, and so on.

7. Motor/Sensory Interventions

Treatments and therapies falling on this category usually aim to improve movement of body parts (motor skills) and heighten sensitivity to one or more senses(sensory perception) to an individual with autism.

8. Alternative and Augmentative Communication

Communication is one of the most highly affected skills in individuals with autism. Alternative communication is usually a set of therapies used to enhance speech and/or language without using the conventional technique. Augmentative Communication, on the other hand, is designed to enhance and complement standard technique in communication therapies.

9. Assistive and Adaptive Technology

In today’s age of technology, the use of assistive and adaptive technology is nothing new. This type of intervention usually makes use of low-tech, mid-tech or high-tech devices, products, and equipment aimed at maintaining, augmenting or improving functional capabilities of those living with ASD. Low-tech gadgets examples are clipboards, photo albums, dry erase boards, etc. Mid-tech examples are Language Master, calculators, voice output devices, and so on. Typically costly, high-tech gadgets such as computers, videocams, and complex voice output devices are more commonly used today.

10. Service-Based Interventions

This intervention category is broken down into three subcategories namely, educational services, employment services, and social care services. Educational services for individuals on autism are focused on the education and mental development of individuals with autism. Employment services are designed to make people find and keep job suited to their abilities. Social care services, on the other hand, are designed to assess the needs and provide support therewith to individuals in a community. This usually includes, residential care, social groups, and so on.

There are also other interventions that do not fall on any of the categories mentioned. Examples are animal therapies, relationship-based intervention, and the use of politics and PR. Indeed, autism is a complex condition that requires various intervention methods. In all these, however, the earlier the intervention usually means the better the progress.

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10 Must-Have Tech Toys and Stuff for Children with Autism

September 1, 2014 Pamela Bryson-Weaver 3 Comments

Children of all ages, whether on the spectrum or not, love toys. It gives them a sense of fun and entertainment. Parents to children with autism, however, must be aware that their children need toys that stimulate their senses but not so much that it can set them into a tailspin or a meltdown. Children on the spectrum have differing sensitivities to sounds, lights, tastes, odors, and touch. One child may be overly sensitive to loud sounds, while another basks in amazement over flashing of light. Most, if not all, though have experienced sensory overload leaving them out of control—and this is what you as a parent should keep in mind when choosing an educational gadget for your child.

Recommended Interactive Toys and Gadgets

1. Buddy Tag

According to their website, “A lost child is a parent’s worst nightmare,” and we could not agree more. Buddy Tag is one of the highly recommended gadget recommended to parents, especially those to children with autism. This Bluetooth tracker cum wristband warns parents when a child is out of proximity. It has a one-touch panic button that sends instantaneous alert to parents when their children are in danger or when they are facing any threat. There is also an app which runs on various smartphones. Subsequently, Buddy Tag also sends email for the time and location of where your child is last seen making it truly conducive for everyone in this day and age.

2. Little Blueprint

Most children with autism rely on consistent routine to go about their daily activities. Little Blueprint customized or ready-made books are highly recommended for kids with autism and to their parents. Not only will it instill confidence in them, it also enhances their brainpower, sense of security and resilience. Parents are provided with “script” which can be used when telling stories. Having one customized with your child’s pictures and name will definitely go a long way. Perfect for setting a sleeping routine…

3. SensaCalm Weighted Lap Pads and Blankets

Weighted lap pads and blankets are great for children with sensory processing disorder, a common developmental issue to those with autism. These can provide a sense of security to them, and subsequently produce a calming effect. The odd textures on the cloth and the attached fidget toys on weighted lap pads can stimulate their senses making it a great companion when traveling or when outdoors. Like a baby cocooned in a blanket, weighted blankets also add a sense of security and calm for children with autism as they sleep.

4. Watchminder3

Specifically developed for kids with developmental disorder by a child psychologist, WatchMinder3 is quite fashionable, fun, and helpful in teaching kids with autism keep track of time and tasks. It also instills positive behavior and gives them an edge in managing their own time and in developing independent living skills.

5. Multi Voice Changer

Predominantly, children with autism have language or speech problems. This, however, can be stimulated to their advantage. This multi-voice speaker encourages children to speak out and have fun. Whether it be a warbled sound or a grunt or a nonsensical voice, the multi voice speaker can turn this into 10 different voice combinations stimulating their interest to learn more and improve on their speech. This megaphone also has a red flashing LED light to fire up their vision.

6.Sensory Pea Pod

Think of how secure a pea is when inside its pod. For some children, this cocooning effect can deliver the calming effect that seeps into their core. Children with autism are often cranky and hyperactive making them vulnerable to meltdown or temper tantrums. With this inflatable vinyl built for comfort and warmth, a child can get the soothing effect when resting or when doing about their favorite activity.

7. Noise Reduction Earmuffs

Some, if not most, children with Autism Spectrum Disorders have sensitive hearing. They are very receptive to their surroundings thus, can be easily upset when exposed to sounds that are either too loud or too shrilly for them. When undergoing sensory storm, this playful noise-reduction earmuffs can provide great cushion in easing up to 27-decibel noise reduction rating while still allowing children to listen to conversation.

8. Tech4Everyone

Think about having an amped Windows desktop. A favorite among teachers, parents to home-schooled kids, homes for the aged, and other service establishments catering to those with developmental needs, the Tech4Everyone software is a revolutionary breakthrough in early childhood computer education. Children with autism will benefit largely from this software platform as it stimulates language, visual and auditory development. Your child simply clicks on his picture and voila! He is presented with a customized set of computer learning activities catering to his individual needs.

9. SmartEd Pad

This is the answer to parents to children with autism. Designed to engage (not distracted) children to technology, and enable therapy continuity even when at home, the SmartEd Pad is a dedicated therapy-specific device which comes complete with lesson plans and apps configured specially by special educators. This device is known to fully support children with autism at home.
SmartEdPad is a dedicated therapy-specific device, with lesson plans and relevant apps configured by special educators, that parents can easily use to support a student at home..

10. iPads and Android Tablets

With hundreds of available apps specifically created to cater to kids with developmental disorder like Autism, iPads or any Android tablets are truly wise investment. Apps like Brain Parade, Math Board, AutisMate, Proloquo2Go, Choiceworks, Pictello, Word SLaPps, iTubelist, and many more are waiting with just one tap.

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Autism: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment

August 30, 2014 Pamela Bryson-Weaver Leave a comment

Most researches strongly suggest that autism is genetic in nature. However, up to this minute, the exact cause of such a wide spectrum of disorders is yet unknown. There is quite a variety of disorders attached to this developmental disorder earning its name—Autism Spectrum Disorders.

Each child with autism usually manifests different sets of symptoms making the diagnosis challenging to doctors, psychologists, and behavioral analysts. However, the following symptoms are some of the basic markers noted among many kids diagnosed with ASD:

inability to socially interact with others
lack, if not rejection, of physical contact and intimacy even with parents and siblings
inability to make direct eye contact with others
lack, if not absence, of verbal skills
has echolalia or make repetitive words and phrases
manifests repetitive motor movements or actions
easily gets preoccupied with something
finds noise insufferable
relies on consistent routines and rituals

Diagnosis Guidelines

These symptoms can sometimes resemble other medical issues, thus, consulting a physician for diagnosis is essential. So, how is ASD diagnosed? As a silent rule, the earlier autism is diagnosed, the more effective the treatment is. A standardized guideline was developed among 11 different organizations and was subsequently published in the journal of the American Academy of Neurology. It clearly states that “all children below the age of 2 years must be routinely screened for autism and other developmental delays”. Furthermore, all children showing developmental delays and/or behavioral disorders must be tested for ASD. First level of diagnosis usually involves testing for:

First Two Years

zero verbal skills by age 18 months
loss of language skills
loss of social skills
no gesturing, babbling or pointing ability by the age of 1
non-echolalic expressions by the age of 2

Pre-schoolers

lack of joint attention (when a person “shares” an experience with another)
lack of affective reciprocity (occurs when a person “shares a moment” with another)
limited imitative ability
limited, if not lack of, pretend play

The second level of autism screening is usually performed when the child is positively identified with developmental delays during the first screening. This in-depth screening is usually done to differentiate autism from other forms of mental, language and anxiety disorders. The second level screening is usually a more formal and profound diagnostic procedure done by a skilled and experienced diagnostician on ASD. This usually involves a complete medical history, neurological evaluation, metabolic and genetic testing, CT Scan, MRI, PET scan and other electrophysiologic tests, psychological evaluation, and many more.

Treatment and Therapy

Autism Spectrum Disorders are known to have no cure. However, these disorders can be managed with a highly specialized behavioral and educational programs designed mainly for ASD. As children with autism has varying needs, each child can have a different set of symptoms, diagnosis, and therefore, treatment like behavioral therapy, behavioral modification, and other special education programs covering social, motor, verbal/language/speech, self-care, and cognitive skills. Some children with ASD require medication while others do not. Specific treatment is usually decided upon the following criteria: a child’s overall health and medical history, symptoms and extent of the disorder, a child’s tolerance to medications and therapies, expectations and opinion/preference of the parent or family member seeking treatment.

Sources:
WebMD
Wikipedia
Mayo Clinic
Wisconsin Children’s Hospital

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Cameron’s 8 today, full of life, full of confidence…

May 25, 2014 Pamela Bryson-Weaver 1 Comment

My son Cameron – laughter, tears, pain and fear come to mind when I think of him. He’s 8 today, full of life, full of confidence. But he wasn’t always that way.

Cameron was 18 mths when I first heard the word Autism. I knew he had some speech delays and was developmentally behind at that age, but the word Autism never entered my mind until spring of that year. I know the doctor was telling me all of her findings on that day and why she suspected my Cameron had Autism, but after that word, I blocked everything else out. I remember tears all of sudden rushing down my face and my husband leaning over to hug me and say everything was going to be ok. At that moment, I thought nothing would be the same again.

That fall my son was admitted into a preschool for children with Autism. I guess I am lucky that I live in a province that provides such a service. There was so much information given to me all at once my head was spinning. ABA therapy, schedules, occupational therapy, speech therapy, physical therapy. One mom can only handle so much. I really didn’t know what Autism meant other than what I had seen in movies. I remember having to ask a staff member at the pre-school to explain what was going on, what PDD-NOS meant. My husband tried to be supportive, but he had work etc. I had work also, but all of a sudden I remember reading up on everything about Autism and therapies was much more important.

It took almost 3 yrs of every type of therapy, naturapathy, me quitting my job to provide at home support for him, listening to every seminar, reading every Jenny McCarthy book on Autism to realize it’s not the end of the world. We were ok! Cameron was going to school, he could speak (although not well), he loved playing with kids, everyone adored him, he was funny and charming and everyone fell in love with his big brown eyes. And my marriage had survived.

I know quitting my job wasn’t the best decision, I was lucky I was able to do so and I had a husband who was there to support me in all my decisions. Cameron who is 8 now, has just entered grade 3. I have to admit the first year of school was an adjustment, not just for him, but for me. After spending every waking second learning, studying and living Autism, to have 6 hrs a day to myself was strange. He still receives help at school, and has an educational assistant in the class, but the boy he has become is amazing. He has never given up on trying, either with educational stuff or socially. I am proud of his hard work to overcome his disabilities!!

Recommended for you:

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Recommended for you:

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Recommended for you:

There is no doubt that early intervention can best deliver progress and results to children living in the shadows of Autism Spectrum Disorders and other developmental disorders. Autism Spectrum Disorders, or ASD, have a variety of treatments and therapies duly called “intervention” by experts.

Recommended for you:

Recommended for you:

Most researches strongly suggest that autism is genetic in nature. However, up to this minute, the exact cause of such a wide spectrum of disorders is yet unknown. There is quite a variety of disorders attached to this developmental disorder earning its name—Autism Spectrum Disorders.

Recommended for you:

Recommended for you: