I Know My Son Is Autistic

I have a 9 yr old son with high functioning autism to get him diagnosed, I took him to the regional center here in the San Fernando Valley. He receives socailization therapy through them and is doing much better. Through them there are also many support groups that you can join. He also is in special ed,receives speech, and physical ed through his IEP at school. This new term his special ed changed from full day to half a day, and the remainder he is mainstreamed. S.

Dear C.,

Get connected with the online group , I don't remember the name, but they are a group of parents who are dealing aggressively with the same things that you are. Jump right in there and take control. Don't wait for a diagnosis - just goooooo. Good Luck, C. N.

Hey there, I am a counselor and I have really loved refering to the Lovaas Institute for Early Intervention (at UCLA). They are so kind and understanding and I really feel that people get the best information in one place from them. Please get some help right away, amazing things are being done.

C. -

My son is now 10 and we have made amazing progress - he was non-verbal and used to smear his poop at 3 and now he talks about wanting to be a zoo keeper and tells me how he feels about life. There is much that you can do to help your child.

Please look at this website - this is a non-profit group made up of parents of children with autism who are reaching out to help other parents. www.tacanow.org - there is a TON of info and also there are support group meetings and a supportive email Yahoo group you can connect with if you don't live near a meeting location.

Take care - contact me if you need to and remember, there is hope.

M.
____@____.com

hi im a 13 yr old girl and i don't know that much about autism but my neibor's kid has it and i just want to say Try soy milk for you 31/2 year old and no wheat. wheat can stay in your system for a long time. if you go to resturaunts order him fruit or ask if the french fries are fried a lone or with other things, you want them alone. try going over his abc's with him too. cover one letter a day.

Good luck i know it's hard.. i baby sit josh (the autistic boy) Oh by the way google gluton free recipes and you should find some good recipes for him if there is a sprouts or trader joe's ask for gluton free stuff. stop giving chips beside like tortilla chips and fritos i wish you the best

I have 3 sons, 2 of them have been Dx with Autism Spectrum Disorders.They are older now, 12 & 18.

Pay attention to your instincts regardless of what you are told. So much can be done with early intervention now. It is not the worst thing for your child if it turns out he is somewhere on the spectrum.It will be different for sure but not terrible.This is what I have found to be.

Just because he has traits now does not mean that he will truly be on the spectrum. I have heard of children being "cured"..(I hate that word and really don't believe it.... but I guess it does happen.) I believe their traits can soften over time. It is a very good sign that he is already maturing.

My advice to you is do not become complacent. I know this is stressful but these are important times for your son. Learn all you can. Ask what else he needs at his school. Let them know you want to do more.

Join me at my group. We have families from all over the world who have been touched in some way by autism. Some have children, grand children or are just teachers that have been touched by autism in some way.

http://groups.msn.com/WALKINGONTHEBRIGHTSIDEOFAUTISM

Trace

Hi C.:

I suggest you go to the website “naet.com” and order the book “Say Good-bye to Allergy-related Autism.” If you decide to pursue treatment, you can find an NAET certified doctor through the website. I (and 2 of my grand children) go to Dr. David Karaba for other allergy related treatment (freedom) in Fullerton and absolutely love him. His phone number is ###-###-####. If you want to do further research, you can also visit narfnet.com. Here’s the information on the book:

Say Good-bye to Allergy-related Autism
By - Devi S. Nambudripad, M.D., D.C., L.Ac., Ph.D.

This book discusses about a drug-free solution for allergy-related autism using Nambudripad’s Allergy Elimination Techniques (NAET®). In Say Good-bye to Allergy–related autism, Dr. Nambudripad, the developer of NAET®, helps the reader explore the truth behind most cases of allergy-based autism spectrum disorders-the most frightening epidemic attacking one out of one hundred and sixty-six children before the age of three today. This book provides useful, practical, effective solutions to help autistic children and their families. She explains how allergies are often the underlying causes to autistic disorders and how NAET® testing procedures and NAET® treatments can offer relief from their allergies and these allergy-based disorders. This book also explains the theoretical basis for her technique and provides true testimonials and fascinating case histories of autistic patients who have been treated successfully with NAET®. Dr. Nambudripad also discusses the transformation of autistic children as they become productive while going through NAET® treatments. She also shares results of two autism studies conducted using NAET®. It is encouraging for the parents of autistic children to learn about the recent (2005) NAET® autism study using 30 subjects in the treatment group and 30 subjects in the control group, where 23 out of 26 children from the treatment group significantly improved to the point that these children were able to remove the label of autism and attend regular school and normal activities, just after completing NAET® treatments for 50 allergen groups, within the span of 12 months. The book is filled with encouraging, educating and exciting testimonials from the satisfied and happy parents about their journey through the rocky road and their horizons.

Hi C.,
First of all, empathize with yourself. You're doing the best you can. Second, have him professionally diagnosed. My daughter was diagnosed early and we had services through the school district, services through the Regional Center, private services and things I did with her on my own after doing alot of research and getting alot of support from my family. My daughter is 8 now. She is a world away from the 2 year old that would spin, stim, rock back and fourth, had echolalia and a very substantial speech delay by the time she was four. Early intervention is the key. From 2 to 6 she had therapies, school, social skills classes, speech therapy, chiropracter visits, one-to-one play dates with neuro-typical children, pshychotherapy, etc. Our day began at 7AM and ended at 8PM. It's been getting less hectic. Our day now ends at 5PM. She still has alot of therapies. Only now she has friends. She is happy. The key, in my experience, was agressive early intervention and taking care of myself...so that I could take care of her. Get supports. Get an evaluation through the Regional Center or school district. If you can afford a private one, that's the best case scenario. UCLA or UC Irvine, have great evaluative programs. Hang in there. It's overwhelming at first. I remember being very afraid for her future when she was very young but I am so happy about where she is now. I feel like she's been given alot of tools and I know that they will help her in life.
Take Care,
:-)
Nez

Here's a link to the Autism Research Institute's webite for families living with Autism. I went to college with a woman whose ECE specialty was autism. She was frustrated with encountering several parents who refused to accept that their child(ren) had autism. You're a strong woman to accept your child's issue and want to learn about it and seek support. Good luck to you!

http://www.autism.com/families/index.htm

Hi C.! First, let me tell you that I admire your courage and insight in addressing the needs of your son. I know some moms who are in denial about their children's needs and the child then misses out on important early interventions.

Having your son in a special pre-K is great! It starts him early with socializing and getting the small group/teacher experience that will help him. I have also heard great things about changing your child's diet to include gluten free foods (I think it's Jenny McCarthy's book- don't know the name).

Doing further research and talking to your son's teachers can give you strategies at home to help. I think that your son can only benefit from having consistent reinforcement from school and home.

Lastly, I want to say that at the end of the day, we can only make do with what is laid out in front of us. In other words, we have to play the cards we are dealt. Having a loving and caring heart, an educated mind, and an army of resourceful and dedicated support will help you and your little one immensely. It already sounds like you are doing the right things. Best wishes to you and may you take each day as it comes. Noone can know what the future may hold for any of us, so it's wise to live in the moment and not dwell on what could be.

My best...

C.,
Don't despare. I grew up with a brother who has autism and it was the most enriching experience of my whole life. Things will be different, but not necessarily worse. Keep a positive mindset. Expect the best! I know many people with autism and many have grown up to be great communicators, public speakers, film producers, etc. Don't worry. Even if he doesn't achieve those heights, as my own brother has not, there is something that he has power to do, even if it is just teach you and your family to have strength and be unified. I know it's a different destination than you imagined when you first left on the journey of parenthood, but enjoy the scenery at this new place whenever you can. Get support. Have friends and family give you a break when you need it. And be there to encourage all your children however they individually need your support. Check out my website: www.abilityawareness.com. And be in touch. I wish you a life filled with great possibilities for you and your son!
D. :o)

Hi C.,

Has he actually been diagnosed by a professional? Of course, that is the first step. Find a specialist to evaluate him ASAP. Sounds like the new preschool is helping. Do you know about Discovery Toys? We have excellent educational and developmental products and have a special focus on autism. If you go to my website: www.Tina4Toys.com and then to the Autism section, there are Life Stories from other moms, information, and other resources that might be helpful to you. If you need any other guidance, please feel free to get in touch. T. ###-###-####

Dear C., Please listen to the audio testamonials from Lifewave. This company has a patch that raises the glutathione levels in autistic children 300%. Autistic children do extremely well with these patches. The children start putting 3 and 5 word sentences together in a short time. Here is the website Lifewave.com/kherihealth the company phone number is on the website if you have any questions. You have nothing to lose. Best of luck to you and your little one. K. Henry ###-###-####

You obviously have already done some research, so I know you will be able to find and connect with the many parent organizations and support available to parents with autistic children. I'm a special education teacher (26th year) and I've worked with a vast variety of autistic children over the years. Please know that autism spectrum disorder encompasses a continuum of abilities and disabilities. Don't assume that your child will be like any other person's child. I have worked with severely handicapped autistic children and children who make so much progress that you can hardly find their "autism" anymore. I spoke to a wonderful student teacher one day who confided that he was autistic. I asked him all kinds of questions to see if he had the significant problems associated with autism as a child and he did. But here he was--handsome, articulate, well-educated and absolutely no obvious outward signs of autism--ready to go into classrooms and teach himself!

Anyway, I just want to give you some encouragement. Many of the autistic children I have worked with made tremendous progress in a few short years enabling them to function very well in regular classes with support from speech and resource program. Many end up graduating and going on to college and successful, productive, healthy lives.

Good luck with your son!

K.

Hi C. F:

My advice to you is to go the the regional center in your area. If you're in San Diego, they're in Ruffin Rd. They are a quasi-state run department for developmental disabled children. They can provide the testing that is needed and if your son is autistic and assist you with referrals to school programs. If that doesn't work out, try UCSD, they are doing research on autism. Or speak with your doctor who can refer you as well.

My son is now 25 years old and is living with us. He does not speak but uses his Franklin speller to communicate with us. While it was hard growing up for all, we will forever be greatful for all assistance that we've received from all the programs we've gone through.

Good luck to you!

Alan's mom

Hi C.,

Cedar's Sinai has a great non-public school called Cheerful Helpers. They do a great job of seeing that children are well diagnosed and, if your son was accepted into the school, they would do great work with him. I used to work there and I saw the autistic kids we worked with make great progress. It's better that you get him diagnosed
early so treatment can start early. I don't have the number anymore, but the address is Cheerful Helpers Child and Family Study Center, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Room E-115; 8730 Alden Drive, Los Angeles, California, 90048. If you have a hard time contacting them call Cedars and ask for Thalian's. They'll be able to help you.
All the best,
K. F., Ph.D.c

I myself have a daughter who is 4 and has Autism. I live in Southern California and she was diagnosed at a little over 2. She also attends Special Ed pre-school and is doing better. She now has about 70 word approximations. You need to get involved with your local Autism Society and Regional Center. They have been a great help to me and my Daughter. The Regional Center currently has her in a Aggression Therapy program 3 days a week and we are making some progress. You have to look at progress as Baby steps. Nothing happens quickly with Autistic children. Look for organizations like Autism Speaks. They are on line and can be very helpful. Be very open about his condition. I know it is hard to go anywhere because of behavioral problems (at least with mine) But if people stair tell them he has Autism and isn’t being bad. Just keep trudging and knowing that they can improve just takes a lot of time depending on how severe the Autism is. Remember to love them and know they love you even if they cant verbalize it. Kathy in California.

Hi C.. My 15 year old son has some symptoms of autism but I don't think he really qualifies as autistic.
We tried for 5 years to get him an IEP (Indiv. Educational Plan) from the school district and refused and basically said that he is just stupid and performing in line with that.
At his doctor's suggestion, we diagnosed him as autistic and he now gets total services from the school including the school sending a teacher to our house three days a week.
My son is an amazing artist from the time he picked up a pencil. He is also now working in my office with me so I can teach him some office skills which he may be able to use later on.
It is what it is and you will also see amazing talents in your son as he matures and grows. YOu will also be able to get great benefits for him since autism is such a "hot" disorder now and there is a lot of acceptance and funding for children with autism. That is a good thing.
So hang in there and you will find that autism is not the worst thing in the world. Cancer and Leukemia are way worse.
Hope this makes you feel better.
L. D
____@____.com

Hi
I have 3 1/2 year old twin sons that have autism. I think first off you should educate yourself as the other mamas have suggested. You must hold your son to the same expectations you have for your other children just understand it'll take him a little longer to learn things. I am scared for my sons' futures however I do have hope that they will attend college and lead independent lives.

Your son is not autistic he has autism. He is not disabled and he is capable of learning to function in this big beautiful world.

Hang in there!

Hi C., When my son was small I always knew something was different. People would tell me that I was comparing him to much to his brother. I told the dr and they said he is fine. Then finally the school told me he had learning disability. So i went back to kaiser and demanded him to be referred to a specialist. Sure enough they tested him and was diagnosed with high function autism. Mom's know best. Have him tested early you can start with therapies now to help him. Regional Center is a good place to start after medical.

relax! first of all have him professionally tested. See how severe it is. the fact that he is making progress is excellent.there are all kinds of support groups out there. join one so you can learna bout your resources and find friendship and comfort with other moms of autistic children.

Hi C.! It looks like you've recieved a lot of information here. Please try not to be overwhelmed. This is how it is when parents who have children with Autism ask for help. The benefit is there are so many resources to choose from and SO many articles to read and endless theories its hard to know what to focus on. I think most people hit it on the head with the importance of early intervention. But even in choosing a service provider, there are so many choices and the difference is in the therapy. I had been working in the field before staying home with my girls after my second was born and I have to tell you, if you are in the Ventura county area STAR is the best provider in the area. If you want more information or advice on how to proceed, contact Dr. Doug Moes at ____@____.com or ###-###-####. He is amazing and so knowledgeable and helpful. STAR provides services from north la to Santa barbara. As difficult as it might be, it is so beneficial that you are moving in the right direction towards helping your son. Best of luck to you and your family.

Hi! I'am a day care provider for 10 years and I had a 4yr gl who give same signs, she was check for every specialist and she is a gifted she gets bor thats why she start mking signs with hands and anty social she does not like to talk with some people so be paient and check him with the specialist try art and outside activities so he can have more social interaccion have a good day O.

Hi,

My six-year-old is high-functioning autistic. The fact that you recognize there is something going on, and have him in special ed, is a great first step. My son is in special ed, first grade. I'm working with the teachers to make sure we are consistent with his learning program at home. I'm just now starting to look at some support groups, but that is as far as I've gotten. My school district has special seminars to help parents deal with issues, such as navigating the IEP, future plannning and other parenting issues. Our goal is to give my son the tools he needs to become a self-sufficient tax payer, and put in place the controls to protect him best we can. I don't know if this helps, or what you are looking for, but hang in there. Let me know if you need something specific.

I would get opinions from several professionals. They can do a lot of great things if they can catch it early, and can really help him. The longer you wait, the harder it is.

Good luck!

I too have a son who attends special preschool under the umbrella of autistic-like behaviors. He has not been formally diagnosed but is currently being evaluated by the Inland Regional Center. Have you had your son evaluated? For the longest time I did not believe my son was autistic because he is very social, but around age 3 he began exhibiting odd behavior. Building the foundation with the special preschool is very important to hopefully get these kids into mainstream school, job, life, etc. It sounds like you are doing the right thing with the early intervention. Let me know if I could be of any help or assistance to you.
-J. Henning, age 33, mother of two

GET EARLY INTERVENTION THROUGH YOUR SCHOOL DISTRICT!! And, do it as soon as possible. Some school districts have wonderful programs that will help your child develop and blossom into a very well-functioning person. Good luck!!

Make sure you get everything your child is legally entitled to through the school system. Learn about the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and Title 504 to the Rehabilitaion act of 1973. These federal laws entitle your child to a free appropriate public education. Sometimes your child may need a lot of services to have the best chance for success. Usually there are more services your child is entitled to than you know about. Call the TASK office in Anaheim and find out about classes being held. They also offer classes in San Bernardino.
Although not as pervasive a disorder as autism, my daughter was also diagnosed with a disability and I used to wonder how she would be able to lead a normal life. Now she is getting mostly A's and is at the top of some of her classes! The amount of time spent on this child is mindboggling. There have been a lot of times we have both just broken down in tears. Collaboration with a competent resource teacher and other professionals is key. You all need to be working confidently together to reach goals that you set for your child. Write to me if you need anything and I will do my best. J.

It sounds exactly like how I figured out my son was autistic. He was diagnosed with a speech delay at age 2, but I just knew it was autism. Finally got the diagnosis at age 3.

It's too early to fear for his future. With early intevention, it is AMAZING the strides these kids can make. I have a few autistic kids in regular ed at my high school, and they are doing very well. My son is only 10, but he is in a regular ed classroom, and while there are good days and bad days, overall he is doing quite well. He has friends and plays well with others. Strangers often can't tell that there is anything 'wrong' with him.

Has your son been officially disgnosed yet? It's amazing how many services and opportunities there are for kids who have an official diagnosis. I get respite care, my son goes to a special needs camp during the summer, there are classes and programs galore.... And there are new therapies and groups discovered every day.

If you haven't already, I would contact your local regional center and get your son signed up. They offer social skills, bathroom, hygiene, life skills, job and computer training for the kids as well as support groups, resources, and training for you too. Almost all of them have a support group for parents of newly diagnosed kids.... it really is nice to see that you're not alone, and talk to other parents who have made it through childhood and can provide some hope.

Keep your chin up... it's not all bad.... and in some cases is actually a good thing.

Hi, pls. feel free to private message me. My son is 3 1/2 and he was diagnosed with this a few months ago. It's heartbreaking of course but I just proceed on like a warrior finding services for him. I've also been reading books as well as researching on the web so I can know all about this disorder so I am equipped to understand and help my son. Also, go to Autismspeaks.org they have a list of support groups, social skills play organizations for your soon. When my son was diagnosed we grieved and still are grieving sometimes, it's hard to hear that something is wrong with your child but you can't get stuck on grief--you have to be the advocate now for him, work hard for him to get the services he needs and also carry the hope that he'll be independent and lose some of his symptoms as he gets older. I will pray for you and your family. Pls. pm me whenever you want.

Hi C.
I have an autistic son who is 8. I also have worked as an ABA therapist providing therapy to autistic children. If you have questions or just want to vent, feel free to contact me.
~S.
____@____.com

Have your son checked through the Regional Center. If he does qualify with an eligibility of autism they will help you get services and they also have support groups as well. You can also get him tested through the school district for speech therapy, OT etc. Just contact your local school district.

Good morning C.,
Take a deep breath mama. My own mom has said to me: "Try to focus on the positive so you don't pre-destine your children. Your fears can get all over their living."
My middle child was also speech delayed. We put him in a speech class when he was 3 1/2 years old. He is now 9 years old. We learned how to help him look us in the eyes as we spoke to him kindly and thoughtful of his mastery of this skill. We have continued this up to the present. He is excellent in math, but his writing skills have taken longer because of focus and development issues also social skills. He now has been going to Sound Therapy to open up parts of his brain that for what ever reason are blocked to help with these issues. It has had subtle changes in his behavior and social skills and focus for writing, but the improvements are amazing. Remember we have just started this therapy. Your child is 3 1/2. My hope for you is that you throw out the fear as it's only going to stress you out and your child will take it on. I have noticed from very early on that my son was very sensitive to our emotions and would pick up on our "stuff". Take one moment, one day at a time and really get to know how your child learns. Don't wait for some "expert" to tell you who your child is. Then if you need the "expert", you can be part of the process and not feel like you have to be told rather you will be able to contribute so your child can be an individual not a case number. You can do this. Be the blessing to this wonderful gift of a child. He will show you amazing things if you do. Good Luck!

Follow the advice of Debbie H. She is absolutely correct. At the age of three the school district becomes responsible for diagnosis and treatment of learning disabilities. You may need an advocate to help you, so a local support group would be good. I have a child that was misdiagnosed by the school district but early intervention with speech therapy, physical therapy, placement in a small appropriate class helped greatly. Today my son is attending college and is a wonderful, bright, and surprising articulate young man. Yes, he is high functioning autistic, but he will do just fine. Get that help right now. Be warned. If the school district gives you any flack, get a pro bono lawyer to be your advocate or try Legal Aid. Believe me, you may need it.

C.,

I have a 4.5 year old son with autism. He was diagnosed at age 3 and he's in a self-contained autism classroom with the school district for 30 hours a week. We also do an hour a week of private speech therapy and have an autism tutor who works with him for an hour and a half each weekend on academic stuff. And we are waiting for a referral for occupational therapy. My son is very high functioning but still oh-so-far from "normal." When you have a child with autism, fearing for the future is normal and pretty much unavoidable (unless you are in a coma!)

I'd be happy to help and support you in any way I can. I've been walking this path for a while now. My email address is ____@____.com me, building a support network of other parents has been vital to keeping my sanity.

I'm not going to tell you everything will be fine but I will tell you that you will adjust and it will get easier to deal with everything.

T.

C.,

There are many variations of autism and many degrees of severity. The fact that your child functions well in a special pre=k setting bodes well for his future. My cousin is an autistic high schooler, now in regular education with some support and leading a very "normal" teenage life.

Here are a few websites with a great many online support groups and info:

http://www.childrensdisabilities.info/autism/groups-autis...

http://groups.msn.com/TheAutismHomePage/parentsupportgrou...

http://lrs.ed.uiuc.edu/students/ajk/supp.html

http://www.talkaboutcuringautism.org/about_taca/groups_lo...

http://people.bakersfield.com/home/Blog/chloesmom32

Good luck and hang in there...

dont fear!!
educate yourself as much as you can on the matter! you're already going in the right direction with early intervention!!
we're here to help ya!!

Have you had him evaluated by the school district...they do free evaulations for speech and other things and then if he qualifies..he can get free day care and speech.....early intervention is key. I believe it is called Child find ..but I could be wrong. if you ahve any questions contact me...A.

I also have a 3 1/2 year old son who presents autistic characteristics and my son is going to pre-k special education classes and just like your son he has matured a great deal. What I find helpful is learning more about autism, it is scary. Sometimes I try to be in his world and he loves it, I also go to classes that are offered from his school district, I don't know if your school district offers these classes but they are very helpful. As far as his future we take it one day at a time. Don't look into the past, don't look to blame anyone (not saying you are!!) just look at everyday and be there for your son and show him love and support.

Hi C.: Have you had your son checked by a neurologist? If not, please don't self diagnose. There are other things it might be. My grandsons are both late talkers and have exhibited some symptoms that caused us worry about autism. They were both checked by experts and our fears were unfounded. The older boy is now 6, in kindergarten, bright, loving and talking well. The 2 year old is still not speaking but a few words but doing well otherwise. Have your son evaluated. Don't take the word of just anyone. Be sure it is a doctor who specializes in this area. If he is autistic, there are many different levels in the spectrum. Get a definite diagnosis and then, if necessary, get him the help he will need.

All the best to you, Mary

Hi C.,
I have always read the requests for advice and/or support but have never responded before. You are the first. The Lord had you on my heart;when I read of your need my heart went out to you. I recently had my first child and he was not without his own struggles. At a month he had an emergency surgery. They had him on oxygen, his skull was sunken in, and he was vomitting every few seconds-it was green. He couldn't eat and I thought I was going to lose my little boy. I don't know if you believe in God, and now it might be hard to believe even if you did. It might feel like He doesn't care for you or how could this happen to your little one. Lots of people around you may not know how to comfort you, I don't, my son isn't in that situation-so how could I know or pretend to know how you feel. But I can say I will be praying for you and I know that God has not forgotton you. Your son is special just how he is and God will not forget your son. He cares for him dearly and He has good plans for him even though all you can see seems dark.
Also, my husband has worked for a company for about a year in Culver City that helps autistic children. They are very caring and are growing in their service areas. Even if you don't live in an area they currently service, maybe my husband can find a service for you if you would like. Don't worry; even through difficulty, God has your hand and knows your heart. He knows your every need and He never sleeps. C. My e-mail is ____@____.com if you ever want to talk, vent, or ask for prayer:)

Hi C.,
The first thing I can say is gather your thoughts and don't panic. There are so many early programs that can augment early childhood developmental dealys, autism or not.
Call your pediatrican for appt., if you don't have confidence in their attention to your son, then, call the Regional Center near you. They have specialist that do the evaluations. Also, your school district is now responsible at age 3 for early classes, speech therapy, etc. Go on line and look for TACA, and other excellent autism support groups. We used UCLA for the early years.
Get someone in your family onboard to help you and it may not be your husband, taking the action step for an evaluation is the first thing to do and then go from there.
Hang in there, it is scary and new but you will do your best for your son.
D. Greg's mom, 16 yrs old.

I am a speech-language pathologist who has worked with many, many children with autism and their families. Please, please, please, do not delay and call your local public school NOW and schedule an assessment and IEP (Individualized Educational Plan) for your son. If he carries a diagnosis of autism, then he will also be eligible for services from Regional Center (in CA). Please also check out the website firstsigns.org to help you with more info and advice. Good luck and stay strong!

my son is 3/1/2 and is going to launch. he is speech and language delayed. the state covers the schooling if your child is diagnosed. its a great place. he also has signs of some autistic behaviors. if you want more info write me back. don't stress over it there is help everywhere

For the past 8 years I have been working with children with Autism. I started with a private agency and am now working for a school district. I have taught elementary and preschool and I have to say that early intervention is the KEY! Good for you for being such an advocate for your child. Research has shown that childern who get early intervention (preschool) have better outcomes.

____@____.com. great group for support and information.

First of all pat yourself on the back that you were able to place your son in a special preK so early! You knew him best and he's off to a good start and early intervention. My oldest is 8 and he is in a special education school and is so happy. The elementary portion of his school just did a full-on musical production with two students with Aspergers as leads. Amazing and lots of fun.

As his advocate you are off to a good start. He will really surprise you as he improves with services.

C. - Sometimes children with delayed speech are actually psychically gifted . Check into it. - C.

Hi C.,

I am a speech pathologist working with many students with special needs. My friend is a behaviorist, a mom of an autistic son who is 4, and she is the owner of Sensory City, a center created for children up to 6-years of age with special sensory and play based needs. They have parent support groups and offer inservices. Check out their website if you are interested www.sensory-city.com

Best of luck to you and your munchkin.

N.

C.,

I don't have any advice for you, but I will say a prayer for you and your family today and I would be happy to listen any time you need to talk.

God bless you,

M.

Hi C., My name is P. My daughter showed the same signs at that age we have had our hard times with her she is now 12 and 1/2 and doing great, I can tell you our story, but it is long. and I'm not that good at typing. if you leave your # I will call you and we can chat I have a funeral to go to tomarow with a heavy weekend and next 10 days, we are jewish. I promise I will get back to you as soon as I have a few extra minutes. Someone on a similar chat gave me some good advice so I feel compelled to pass it on and My daughter will have a pretty good and next to normal life. I wish you all the best, P.

Hi, you could take your son to any childrens hospital for a free diagnose to make sure... i have worked with special children , but now retired..sincerley Anna

Hi!
If you live in the Las Vegas area, try looking into F.E.A.T. which is a parent support organization for parents of autistic children....here's the website address:
http://www.featsonv.org/! Hope this is of some help!
:)>, S.

go get Jenny McCarthy's book about her son! You will find it great use!