Q. Dear Karen and Mary,
We are hoping you will address Autism. What do parents need to look for? We’d like to understand the early symptoms for our 9 month old son.
A. Yes, we will do our best to explain. Pervasive Developmental Disorder (PDD) is an umbrella term that covers Autism, Rett’s disorder, Asperger’s, Childhood Disintegrative Disorder, and Pervasive Developmental Disorder Not Otherwise Specified (PDDNOS). All types of PDD are neurological disorders that are usually evident by 3 years of age, ranging from mild to severe. The most common characteristics they share are impairment of social interaction, verbal and nonverbal communication skills, and a limited number of interests and activities that tend to be repetitive.
Babies with PDD tend to lack eye contact and seldom show facial responsiveness. Many do not babble or may stop babbling over time. Some children develop preoccupations, such as a flicking movement of the hand near the face, or attachments to odd objects with textures or shape. Some children may seem to be under responsive or over responsive to sensory stimuli.
Children who have a type of PDD may have difficulty in talking, playing with other children, and relating to others. They may be easily upset by changes in their familiar environment. They may not develop typical attachment behaviors. Many show a lack of interest in playing with other children and may avoid children altogether. Many lack imaginative activities and play. The repetition of sounds, words, or phrases called Echolalia is very common.
Certainly, if your child is developing according to your pediatrician’s expectations, you have nothing to be concerned with. But if you notice any changes as mentioned above, it would be a good idea to bring it up to your doctor.
Q. Dear Karen and Mary,
Our son has Autism and is mainstreamed in a public school. We are worried about him missing out on the academics taught in his third grade class. What are your thoughts on this?
A. When a child is mainstreamed and has a diagnosis, there is typically an Individual Educational Program (IEP) in place. It is a fluid document and can be changed if needed. Sometimes children with autism have full or part-time educational assistants with them during the school day. Depending on what is listed in the IEP, there is often a therapy session during the school day and a portion of the day dedicated to teaching language and social skills.
As far as missing the academics, if you are concerned and believe your son is capable, by all means talk to his teacher to see which subjects you agree are best for him to attend. Some children with autism can have unusually high and unique abilities above and beyond normal. If you observe he has displayed any, you could call attention to his talents and talk to his teachers to make sure he is included.
Remember too, that as he ages, his needs will change. The key is support and honesty with the professionals who are working with him, so he remains secure knowing he is loved and cared for.
