question for parents of autistic children

[ez]

How old was your child when they were diagnosed and who diagnosed them? When did you feel something might be "different" about them? What kind of services have you gotten from your state and what do you feel has been the most beneficial? Thanks in advance to anyone who replies.

 

[jenny2]

You might want to try posting this on the DISabilities board for more replies!

 

[s&k'smom]

I was just gonna say the same thing, you will find tons of parents and resources.

 

[HayGan]

My DS is 5 1/2 and was officially diagnosed in October 2003 although the possibility of him being in the spectrum came up when he was right around 2. He was diagnosed by a local specialist at the local Children's Hospital. Yes, I did have my suspicions before anyone actually said anything. I watched as my cheerful chatty little one went into his own world. Thankfully I was very proactive and got him help early. He received early intervention services from early on through our county in the form of speech and occupational therapy in our home. Once he turned 3, the county provided pre-school services at a special school. Once he was officially disgnosed (his official diagnosis is PDD-NOS and his autistic symptoms are pretty mild), he began to receive medical assistance. His MA pays for wraparound services in our home with a TSS and BSC as well as a social program through an agency specializing in autism. My medical insurance pays for additional speech and occupational therapy now.

He has made tremendous progress in the 2 short years because of the fantastic services he has received!

I would be more than happy to answer any questions you may have. Spectrum disorders are challenging not only for the child but for the entire family. If I can help you in anyway, please do not hesitate to ask