Has someone told you that your child may have a developmental delay or disorder such as autism or Asperger Syndrome?
Here are ten steps to get you going in the right direction.
Get a Diagnosis:
A specific diagnosis is not absolutely necessary, but can be very helpful. The sooner you can get a diagnosis, the sooner you can get services from schools, programs and specialists. Diagnoses should be determined with the help of an experienced professional such as a developmental pediatrician, neurologist or child psychologist.
For info on diagnosis and warning signs, go to Firstsigns.org
Get Organized:
Manage medical records, assessments, laboratory values and other important data in a binder and have it organized and ready to go for appointments.
Get Resources:
The Northwest Autism Foundation is a wonderful group of caring folks who can provide local numbers and resources for just about every aspect of living with autism and getting the best opportunities for your child.
Call 503-557-2111 and request a current Autism Resource Directory.
Get an IEP (Individualized Education Program):
Talk to your school district about services available.
Helpful links and info can be found at:
www.ode.state.or.us/pubs/forms/iep/
www.tacanow.com/iepcheck.htm
The Complete IEP Guide by Attorney Lawrence M. Siegel.
This book clearly illustrates your rights, has examples of letters to write and will define what is possible for your child to receive.
Obtain early outside assessments and intervention:
Contact therapists who will be able to identify your child’s strengths and weaknesses and provide detailed recommendations for your child. Get a good referral and get these scheduled as soon as possible. Early intervention leads to success!
Types of professionals to consider:
Child Neuropsychologist or developmental specialist
Speech pathologist
Occupational therapist
Behavioral therapist
Find A doctor who is experienced in biomedical assessment and treatment:
A doctor is an important step on the autism journey. There are many safe and effective biomedical therapies that can be helpful for your child. Examples include: Methyl B12 injections, nutritional therapy, homeopathy, detoxification, diet and immune stimulation.
Remarkable improvements have been seen in children who receive biomedical treatments.
Find a DAN! doctor with up-to-date information and experience in treating children on the spectrum.
For more information, please go to the “Get Ready to Read” section below.
Address your child’s diet:
The foods your child eats directly effects the ability of your child’s brain and body to develop and function properly. Remove additives, preservatives & dyes from all foods. Go organic if you can and eat as many whole, fresh foods as possible. Get some good recipes and experiment with vegetables! Your child will only eat them if he sees you eating (and enjoying) them, so get creative and have fun!
Cookbooks:
Nourishing Traditions by: Sally Fallon
The Petit Appetit Cookbook: Easy, Organic Recipes to Nurture Your Baby and Toddler by: Lisa Barnes
The Family Nutrition Book: William Sears MD
Many parents have found a Gluten free/ Casein free (GF/CF) diet extremely effective in reducing autistic symptoms. Read about it and give it at least a three- month trial.
Nourishing Hope by Julie Matthews
www.gfcfdiet.com
Special Diets for Special Kids ONE AND TWO - Lisa Lewis
The Kid-Friendly ADHD and Autism Cookbook: The Ultimate Guide to the Gluten-Free, Casein-Free Diet (Hardcover) by Pamela Compart & Dana Laake
Attend support group meetings:
Autism Society of Washington and Oregon hold meetings in several counties.
Autism Society of Oregon: www.oregonautism.com
Call: 1-888-AUTISM-1 or email at: aso@teleport.com
Autism society of Washington: www.autismsocietyofwa.org
Call: 1-888-279-4968
Autism medical support group at OHSU: kathyh@arroautism.org
Call: 503-284-0350
Get Ready to Read:
There are many books and websites to give you information about services, treatments, support and resources.
Websites:
Autism Research Institute
Talk About Curing Autism
Education:
You’re Going to Love this Kid: Teaching Students with Autism in the Inclusive Classroom: Paula Kluth
Biomedical Treatment:
Changing the Course of Autism- Bryan Jepson, M.D.
Healing the New Childhood Epidemics: Autism, ADHD, Asthma and Allergies- Kenneth Bock, M.D.
Children with Starving Brains – 2 nd Edition – Jacquelyn McCandless, M.D.
What your Doctor Does Not Tell you About Vaccinations – by Dr. Stephanie Cave
Find Balance:
Keep in mind that advocating for your child is quite like running a marathon. You need to pace yourself and think both short term and long term about every decision you make.
Balance in your life will benefit both you and your child. Remember to cherish your spouse and other children. Also, remember to take time for your self. Keep seeking out the fun and love that comes with being a family. Keep participating in activities that help control stress and lift you up. Encourage your child every day and emphasize all of his or her unique and wonderful qualities.