IF YOU’RE WORRIED ABOUT AUTISM

(Article published in HWW May 2004)

by Jean Brooks

It’s been in the news lately. All across the country, we’ve seen a big surge in the number of children diagnosed as “on the autism spectrum.” Here’s some guidance for parents.

What is autism?

Autism is a brain disorder that makes communication difficult, and causes babies to develop differently from other kids. Sadly, a cure for autism has not yet been found. The good news is that therapists and teachers are using special teaching techniques to help these kids learn to communicate and learn. The important thing is to get the right teachers early in the child’s life.

Kids with autism disorders:

• Are each unique, with their own special weaknesses and strengths

• May be just a little different or can be very disabled (and everything in between)

• May have some mental retardation, or none at all

• Can almost always learn to communicate

• Can usually learn to speak like other kids

• Can usually go to school and learn to read and write

• Love their parents as much as any child

• Can all have close relationships with their families and friends

It is time to get an assessment if your one year old:

• Does not seem to feel pain or heat

• Is bothered by light or sound

• Is bothered by clothes and people touching him

• Appears to be deaf sometimes

• Does not trade funny faces, smiles, or sounds with you

• Does not use gestures to show you things he fears or likes

It is time to get an assessment if your two year old:

• Does not pair words with normal activities like bath and bed

• Does not make up some two word combinations

• Does not point to familiar people or things when asked

• Mostly echoes things he has heard on TV

• Does not bring you things to see or admire

• Does not show you things he likes or fears by pointing

• Does not turn when his name is called

• Does not check your face when he sees or hears something new

• Makes repetitive motions with his hands or body

• Plays strangely with toys, such as lining up toy cars or spinning their wheels

Don’t be afraid to find out early! Early assessment means early intervention and a better future for your child.

Even if your regular doctor or pediatrician doesn’t think your child has a problem but YOU DO, you should trust your instincts and look into having a further evaluation.

Diagnosing autism is difficult, takes training, and cannot be done by most pediatricians, even the best. You need to talk to a specialist such as a developmental pediatrician or a neurologist.

If your child is under 3 years old, you should check into New York’s Early Intervention Program (EIP). By state law, infants and toddlers from birth to 3 with developmental delays and disabilities are entitled to free evaluation and services. For information, call NYC/EIP’s Totline at 1 (800) 577-2229.

No matter what your child’s age, you can call Gary Shulman, Program Director, Resources for Children with Special Needs. at (212) 677- 4650 to ask about options for evaluation and treatment.

Shulman says, “For infants, toddlers or anyone with developmental disabilities, there are special clinics called Article 16 clinics that specialize in evaluation and intervention. Payment is covered by Medicaid and other insurance programs. For school age children, it is your entitlement to have your child tested through the Department of Education. And remember that as soon as a child, from birth to 21, has been diagnosed as having developmental disabilities, he or she is entitled to appropriate treatment.”