Autism. We hear the word all of the time but do we really know what it means? Autism is a developmental disorder characterized by difficulties with social interaction and communication and by restricted and repetitive behavior. The diagnosis of autism is a clinical judgment based on observed symptoms, behaviors and characteristics. The observations of family members, teachers, and caregivers are important to this diagnosis.
Parents usually see signs of Autism within the first three years of age, although some children will hit all of their developmental milestones on time before worsening and loosing skills they once had.
Raising a child with Autism has its challenges, but it also has some pretty magical moments as well! I had the privilege of sitting down with an amazing local mom and asked her some questions to help us all better understand what raising a child with Autism entails.
The following is Jodie and Eli's story
Eli was your average active toddler who loved to run around and rarely sat still, but at about 18 months old Jodie noticed that he still wasn't talking, making any noises or babbling at all. Jodie decided to have him tested to see what was going on. At first, she thought he just had a language delay. They went to their local Early Steps office and began occupational and speech therapy while they waited for a diagnoses.
Eli then had the ADOS testing - The Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule (ADOS) is a semi-structured assessment of communication, social interaction, and play (or imaginative use of materials) for individuals suspected of having autism or other pervasive developmental disorders. This is where they found that he was not displaying the same typical behaviors that children who are not on the spectrum display. Eli was diagnosed at the age of two with Autism Spectrum Disorder.
Once Eli had his official diagnosis, Jodie was not sad. She was relieved. Happy to have an answer and a plan in place to help Eli with his difficulties in communication and sensory issues. Eli receives Speech, occupational and ABA Therapy (Applied Behavior Analysis) to help Eli make the most progress and Jodie received her RBT Certification (Registered Behavioral Technician) so she could be as prepared as possible for Eli and know how to better help him in life!
Now at age 5 Eli is still non verbal but has an amazing communication device which allows him to communicate with his family, friends and teachers effectively. He loves jumping on the trampoline, swimming and is very affectionate-demanding all the snuggles from mom and dad! He attends Kindergarten at his local elementary school where they have classes only for children who are on the spectrum.
Jodie says that raising a child with Autism is not easy, but she would not have her son any other way. He is full of joy and determination to learn and only wants to be treated the same as all other children. As any mother would, Jodie worries for Eli's future, as it is unsure where it will lead, but hopes that he will grow into an independent young man and have all the success in the world!
Jodie looks for acceptance in the community and understanding for her child and others with ASD.
If you know someone who has a child with Autism Spectrum Disorder and wonder how you can help, Jodie says offer to give them a break. Allowing her to take an hour or two to herself is the best support she can get.
Every child with Autism is different. No two children are the same, If you think your child is displaying signs of ASD, see your pediatrician. Early diagnosis can make a huge difference in the lives of children with Autism Spectrum Disorder and their families.
Early Steps is Florida's early intervention system that offers services to eligible infants and toddlers (birth to thirty-six months) with significant delays or a condition likely to result in a developmental delay. Early Intervention is provided to support families and caregivers in developing the competence and confidence to help their child learn and develop. These therapist's come to your home so your child feels safe and comfortable. You can look up your local Early Steps contact informatrion by googling the name of your state and early steps.
If your child is over the age of three, reach out to your local school district as they have many resources children with autism and their families!
Visit the Center for Disease Control and Prevention for some amazing information on autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and helpful links!
**The information in this article is not that of a medical doctor. The information was provided by a local mom and myself looking to raise awareness**
