Posts
Redbook published two artices on Autism. Click on title to read.
Autism: "There's No Such Thing as Too Much Hope"
Autism Activist Moms
Friday, November 21, 2008
Sunday, November 16, 2008
Neurofeedback Testimonial
I recently submitted this testimonial to Neurofeedback Centers for Success.
My husband and I brought our 2-year old autistic son to Centers for Success with both intrigue and skepticism. When we first began, John had been through only 2 months of traditional early intervention therapies, such as Speech, Occupational Sensory, some in-home play, and an Early Start Preschool. He had been significantly developmentally delayed in all areas. His speech (at 30 months old), was tested like that of a 6-9 month old. His cognitive skills tested at a 10-17 month level. 6 months ago (at two-and-a half years old), John had no attention span, could not sit still, jumped form one activity to another, was in constant motion, grinded his teeth, chewed on his shirt collars, did not sleep through the night, had eating issues, had little-to-none imaginary play skills, could not ride a tricycle, and did not socialize with other children. When he was tested, they couldn’t complete many sections because he wouldn’t focus for them, wouldn’t respond to his name, wouldn’t point to a single object when asked, and was constantly running around the room, flipping on and off the light.
To date, John has had 50 sessions of Neurofeedback over 4 months time, and we are still planning on more. He rapidly progressed in his developmental skills, including bringing his speech to a 31-month level and his cognitive to 33 months (he is currently 36 months old). Among his skills, include riding a tricycle, which has become a favorite outside activity now. His imaginary play has grown by incredible strides, moving from cause-and-effect toys to playing with cars and blocks, as well as playing kitchen, grocery store, and even ‘brain school’(neurofeedback). He uses Play Dough as the “sticky stuff”, grabs headphones, and tells me he needs a movie! His retention has increased, which he can show us through the speech skills he has gained. He can now sit still through the reading of a book, which was something that he had never done before. We used to try just looking at pictures and ignoring the words, but he still couldn’t do that. Now, he’s interested in listening to someone read and can sit in a ‘big’ chair, without having to strap him in a high chair or booster. He has enough attention to sit and complete tasks, such as puzzles or stringing beads in patterns.
Socially, John has grown in his interaction with his 4-year-old sister, engaging in play and laughing at jokes between the two of them. He initiates hugs for bedtime, holds her hand, and plays prince and princess with her. He can play on his own, entertaining himself with age appropriate toys. With other children, John will say hello and goodbye, but his play is still more parallel in nature and not too much of engagement.
Behaviorally, we have watched John grow through different developmental stages. Prior to any early intervention, John was often frustrated due to his lack of communication and ability to do things for himself. He would often act out by throwing things or cry inconsolably. He’d cry until he fell asleep, often 30-45 minutes. As he became calmer and his skill levels increased, we watched the behavior change. He had more control. We then entered a stage of transitional tantrums, which only lasted about 1-2 weeks, but he’d cry as activities would end. Centers for Success changed some protocols and the calmness then took over, and the tantrums ended. We went on a vacation that included a 5-hour plane flight. John had no problems sitting in his airplane seat, happy and calm, for the entire trip (both on the way there and on the way home). We are currently in a new behavioral phase, which includes tantrums because John doesn’t get his way. This is different from the transition tantrums. These are in direct result of not getting what he wants and are in complete protest. He’s learning that he can communicate his wants to us, and protesting when we don’t oblige.
John’s diagnosis has changed from an “autistic disorder” to “PDD-NOS”, (Pervasive Developmental Delay, “not otherwise specified”) meaning there are signs of autism, but not enough for a Classic Autism or Asperger’s diagnosis. John has made HUGE progress since his first examination 6 months ago and beginning Neurofeedback 4 months ago. John still has a way to go, but life today is so different than it was back then. It’s more manageable from a parental standpoint and less frustrating from John’s standpoint. We are continuing with all of the therapy because it’s all working together. Neurofeedack has made it possible for John to be calm and attentive to learn the skills to catch up to his peers. He’s also learning to efficiently use his brain, increasing his maximum potential, during this time of early intervention. The rate at which he’s developing is incredible. Socially, John has grown in his relationship with his sister and I am hoping to report that this carries over into his relationship with other children. SO, until next time, this is “to be continued”….
My husband and I brought our 2-year old autistic son to Centers for Success with both intrigue and skepticism. When we first began, John had been through only 2 months of traditional early intervention therapies, such as Speech, Occupational Sensory, some in-home play, and an Early Start Preschool. He had been significantly developmentally delayed in all areas. His speech (at 30 months old), was tested like that of a 6-9 month old. His cognitive skills tested at a 10-17 month level. 6 months ago (at two-and-a half years old), John had no attention span, could not sit still, jumped form one activity to another, was in constant motion, grinded his teeth, chewed on his shirt collars, did not sleep through the night, had eating issues, had little-to-none imaginary play skills, could not ride a tricycle, and did not socialize with other children. When he was tested, they couldn’t complete many sections because he wouldn’t focus for them, wouldn’t respond to his name, wouldn’t point to a single object when asked, and was constantly running around the room, flipping on and off the light.
To date, John has had 50 sessions of Neurofeedback over 4 months time, and we are still planning on more. He rapidly progressed in his developmental skills, including bringing his speech to a 31-month level and his cognitive to 33 months (he is currently 36 months old). Among his skills, include riding a tricycle, which has become a favorite outside activity now. His imaginary play has grown by incredible strides, moving from cause-and-effect toys to playing with cars and blocks, as well as playing kitchen, grocery store, and even ‘brain school’(neurofeedback). He uses Play Dough as the “sticky stuff”, grabs headphones, and tells me he needs a movie! His retention has increased, which he can show us through the speech skills he has gained. He can now sit still through the reading of a book, which was something that he had never done before. We used to try just looking at pictures and ignoring the words, but he still couldn’t do that. Now, he’s interested in listening to someone read and can sit in a ‘big’ chair, without having to strap him in a high chair or booster. He has enough attention to sit and complete tasks, such as puzzles or stringing beads in patterns.
Socially, John has grown in his interaction with his 4-year-old sister, engaging in play and laughing at jokes between the two of them. He initiates hugs for bedtime, holds her hand, and plays prince and princess with her. He can play on his own, entertaining himself with age appropriate toys. With other children, John will say hello and goodbye, but his play is still more parallel in nature and not too much of engagement.
Behaviorally, we have watched John grow through different developmental stages. Prior to any early intervention, John was often frustrated due to his lack of communication and ability to do things for himself. He would often act out by throwing things or cry inconsolably. He’d cry until he fell asleep, often 30-45 minutes. As he became calmer and his skill levels increased, we watched the behavior change. He had more control. We then entered a stage of transitional tantrums, which only lasted about 1-2 weeks, but he’d cry as activities would end. Centers for Success changed some protocols and the calmness then took over, and the tantrums ended. We went on a vacation that included a 5-hour plane flight. John had no problems sitting in his airplane seat, happy and calm, for the entire trip (both on the way there and on the way home). We are currently in a new behavioral phase, which includes tantrums because John doesn’t get his way. This is different from the transition tantrums. These are in direct result of not getting what he wants and are in complete protest. He’s learning that he can communicate his wants to us, and protesting when we don’t oblige.
John’s diagnosis has changed from an “autistic disorder” to “PDD-NOS”, (Pervasive Developmental Delay, “not otherwise specified”) meaning there are signs of autism, but not enough for a Classic Autism or Asperger’s diagnosis. John has made HUGE progress since his first examination 6 months ago and beginning Neurofeedback 4 months ago. John still has a way to go, but life today is so different than it was back then. It’s more manageable from a parental standpoint and less frustrating from John’s standpoint. We are continuing with all of the therapy because it’s all working together. Neurofeedack has made it possible for John to be calm and attentive to learn the skills to catch up to his peers. He’s also learning to efficiently use his brain, increasing his maximum potential, during this time of early intervention. The rate at which he’s developing is incredible. Socially, John has grown in his relationship with his sister and I am hoping to report that this carries over into his relationship with other children. SO, until next time, this is “to be continued”….
Friday, November 14, 2008
Understanding Development
I think one of the most important things parents of developmentally delayed kids need to remember is that the brain, along with the child, still needs to go through each stage of development. A child will not "skip" a stage through early childhood development as new skills emerge. The child, as well as the brain, needs to learn through the "normal" phases of development, so as your child grows in his development, you'll see new behaviors emerge that he/she may have never shown. This isn't a regression and yet, that may be how it feels. It is something you should rejoice in because he/she has hit a new developmental milestone. I will stress that it oftentimes doesn't feel that way, and does make life a bit harder, but there are certain behaviors that are normal in early childhood development.
I have recently discovered what a "terrible two" really is. John may have just turned 3, but the terrible two's are here in full force. I may have thought they were here earlier, but they were only a glimpse of what was to come! These new tantrums include protesting when Bill or I do not oblige in the wants and needs that John communicates to us. These are different than the days of transitional tantrums or the even older days of inconsolable crying. These are tantrums that are a direct result of John not getting his way. They include yelling, running, throwing, kicking, and pulling hair. Discipline ends the tantrums. Discipline makes him mad, but discipline works with these tantrums.
As I said before, we as parents should rejoice in the fact that this normal developmental phase is here. Instead of pulling our own hair out, we should jump up and down that are child is developing. My prayer is that the phase doesn't last long and that God gives me the strength to keep my cool because sometimes I would like to run around the house, scream, throw myself on the floor, pull someone's hair, or even "ring their neck". There are times when I feel like I can't take it anymore, but the day ends and the next day begins. God won't give us what we can't handle. Our reaction to what we are given is what will make us strong or weak in our handling. But, we can handle it. But, we may have to constantly remind ourselves that we CAN handle it.
I have recently discovered what a "terrible two" really is. John may have just turned 3, but the terrible two's are here in full force. I may have thought they were here earlier, but they were only a glimpse of what was to come! These new tantrums include protesting when Bill or I do not oblige in the wants and needs that John communicates to us. These are different than the days of transitional tantrums or the even older days of inconsolable crying. These are tantrums that are a direct result of John not getting his way. They include yelling, running, throwing, kicking, and pulling hair. Discipline ends the tantrums. Discipline makes him mad, but discipline works with these tantrums.
As I said before, we as parents should rejoice in the fact that this normal developmental phase is here. Instead of pulling our own hair out, we should jump up and down that are child is developing. My prayer is that the phase doesn't last long and that God gives me the strength to keep my cool because sometimes I would like to run around the house, scream, throw myself on the floor, pull someone's hair, or even "ring their neck". There are times when I feel like I can't take it anymore, but the day ends and the next day begins. God won't give us what we can't handle. Our reaction to what we are given is what will make us strong or weak in our handling. But, we can handle it. But, we may have to constantly remind ourselves that we CAN handle it.
Sunday, November 9, 2008
Book Report: Mother Warriors
Writing a blog in 2008 about Autism has to include Jenny McCarthy. Jenny McCarthy has brought the idea that bio-medical treatment and diet can lead to recovery in kids with Autism and started a foundation called Generation Rescue. I have her read her most recent book, Mother Warriors, which is about the mothers (and fathers) behind children diagnosed with Autism, and how they fight the disorder,mostly through nontraditional methods, helping kids with autism recover.
The book is worth the read if you are looking for inspirational testimonials from parents who have fought the Autism battle, using DAN! (Defeat Autism Now!) doctors, bio-medical treatments, diet, etc. Each chapter discusses in detail, personal stories in how a family found healing for their child with Autism.
It discusses the two controversies surrounding Autism:
1. causes
2. whether a child can recover
One thing that seems to be a recurring theme throughout all of the personal testimonials is that "clearing up the gut clears the brain". The DAN! doctors do a series of tests on these children and what is revealed are high levels of yeast, bloated guts, and a variety of other factors that lead to the conclusion that the child's diet needs to be adjusted. What seems to result is better sleep and a clearer mind.
There were many inspirational quotes from the book and I will share a few here:
When Jenny McCarthy's son was able to talk and communicate to his mom, he shared with her how he used to not be able to remember his words, similar to that of Dory, from Disney's Finding Nemo movie. She then says this:
"All that time my son had been completely aware of his inability to get his words out. It was at that moment that I realized that even though our children look completely zoned out, there is actually a spirit inside them that is full of life and love that needs the same talking to as a typical, healthy child. If the child could speak, he or she would say, 'Just because I sopped talking Mom, doesn't mean you should stop. Keep talking to me. I like hearing your voice'".
One mother says: "There is nothing more hopeless than when doctors tell you they can't fix the brain because they can't get to it...science says that this is an autoimmune disease and manifests behaviorally as autism. If you treat it as an autoimmune disease or as a neuroimmune disease, then kids will get better."
Another says: "Tylenol lowers glutathione (the body's natural antioxident)" She discusses how giving Tylenol to your children for the pain right before they get their vaccinations is lowering their bodies natural defenses to fight the toxins entering their body. Some parents give their children supplements of glutathione to restore the levels in their body to help naturally detoxify the metals that are present in their systems.
And I'll end tonight's blog with this one: " Miracles can happen, faith can move mountains, and doctors need to learn about a medicine called hope".
The book is worth the read if you are looking for inspirational testimonials from parents who have fought the Autism battle, using DAN! (Defeat Autism Now!) doctors, bio-medical treatments, diet, etc. Each chapter discusses in detail, personal stories in how a family found healing for their child with Autism.
It discusses the two controversies surrounding Autism:
1. causes
2. whether a child can recover
One thing that seems to be a recurring theme throughout all of the personal testimonials is that "clearing up the gut clears the brain". The DAN! doctors do a series of tests on these children and what is revealed are high levels of yeast, bloated guts, and a variety of other factors that lead to the conclusion that the child's diet needs to be adjusted. What seems to result is better sleep and a clearer mind.
There were many inspirational quotes from the book and I will share a few here:
When Jenny McCarthy's son was able to talk and communicate to his mom, he shared with her how he used to not be able to remember his words, similar to that of Dory, from Disney's Finding Nemo movie. She then says this:
"All that time my son had been completely aware of his inability to get his words out. It was at that moment that I realized that even though our children look completely zoned out, there is actually a spirit inside them that is full of life and love that needs the same talking to as a typical, healthy child. If the child could speak, he or she would say, 'Just because I sopped talking Mom, doesn't mean you should stop. Keep talking to me. I like hearing your voice'".
One mother says: "There is nothing more hopeless than when doctors tell you they can't fix the brain because they can't get to it...science says that this is an autoimmune disease and manifests behaviorally as autism. If you treat it as an autoimmune disease or as a neuroimmune disease, then kids will get better."
Another says: "Tylenol lowers glutathione (the body's natural antioxident)" She discusses how giving Tylenol to your children for the pain right before they get their vaccinations is lowering their bodies natural defenses to fight the toxins entering their body. Some parents give their children supplements of glutathione to restore the levels in their body to help naturally detoxify the metals that are present in their systems.
And I'll end tonight's blog with this one: " Miracles can happen, faith can move mountains, and doctors need to learn about a medicine called hope".
Friday, November 7, 2008
Newsweek Autistic Traits in Adults Test
Awhile back Newsweek had this test/questionnaire to measure autistic traits in adults. It's online and you can take test here.
Newsweek article on Autism
Today, I came across yesterdays Newsweek. It's about recognizing early signs of Autism, especially with the way children play with toys as early as 12 months old.
Here is one paragraph:
Here is one paragraph:
"The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that all infants be screened for autism twice before they are 2. Pediatricians look for language delays and lack of interest in people, such as not responding to their name and failing to make eye contact. But these can be present even when autism is not. The latest findings are not perfect either, but they are something parents can watch for every day rather than relying on—and waiting for—a short visit to the doctor. “There is an urgent need to develop measures that can pick up early signs of autism, signs present before 24 months,” Ozonoff says. “The finding that the unusual use of toys is also present early in life means that this behavior could easily be added to a parent check-list.”"
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