Sensory Integration: Aspergers

顯示具有 Aspergers 標籤的文章。顯示所有文章

2012年9月18日星期二

8 Important Items to Help You Advocate For Your Child With Aspergers Syndrome

Has your child recently been diagnosed with Aspergers Syndrome, and you are struggling to get your school district to recognize the diagnosis? Would you like to learn some important information to help you in your special education advocacy efforts, for your child? This article will specifically address things that you need to know to help you fight for special education services for your child.

Things that you need to know.

1. Aspergers Syndrome has its own category in the Diagnostic Statistical Manual (DSM IV) that is used for diagnosis. It is under the umbrella of Pervasive Developmental Disorders (PDD).

2. The American Psychiatric Association is proposing changing Aspergers Syndrome from its own category to within the autism category for the DSM V. The intent is to try and make the diagnosis of autism clearer. The decision will be made within several months (middle to end of 2010).

3. From an educational standpoint this is a wonderful decision, in my opinion, that will benefit thousands of children throughout the United States. Why? Many school districts have denied children with this disorder special education services because they state that the child does not have autism, and so therefore is not eligible. But in reality the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act state that a child must have one of 13 covered disabilities and have educational need. Aspergers is a part of the autism spectrum and should be a covered disability; though you may need to advocate for this.

4. Many children with this disorder will require help learning appropriate social interactions and social skills. This should be provided as a special education services for your child if they need it. It could be working directly with a school social worker or participating in a small group social skills class.

5. Small groups may help your child with their education and also to develop appropriate social skills.

6. Modifications and adaptations in the regular classroom may help your child keep up with their peers.

7. Sensory integration disorder is common in many children with this disorder, and shows itself in difficulty with lights, sounds, different foods and different fabrics. If your child shows this difficulty, ask your school district for testing by an Occupational Therapist who is SIPT qualified (has received specialized training in the area of sensory integration/processing disorder).

8. Many children with Aspergers may need Occupational Therapy also for motor clumsiness. Ask for specific testing in this area if your child shows need.

Keep these 8 items in mind when you attend Individual Educational Plan Meetings (IEP) for your child. They will assist you in trying to help your child receive a Free Appropriate Public Education!

JoAnn Collins is the mother of two adults with disabilities, and has helped families navigate the special education system, as an advocate, for over 15 years. She is a presenter and author of the book "Disability Deception; Lies Disability Educators Tell and How Parents Can Beat Them at Their Own Game." The book has a lot of resources and information to help parents fight for an appropriate education for their child. For a free E newsletter entitled "The Special Education Spotlight" send an E mail to: JoAnn@disabilitydeception.com. For more information on the book, testimonials about the book, and a link to more articles go to: http://www.disabilitydeception.com.

This post was made using the Auto Blogging Software from WebMagnates.org This line will not appear when posts are made after activating the software to full version.

2012年9月11日星期二

How To Identify Aspergers Syndrome

It's possible that one of the most important treatments for children diagnosed with Aspergers syndrome, which is a kind of high functioning autism, will be sensory integration therapy. Children with autism generally have a great deal of sensory processing problems. As a result every type of stimuli will seem extreme for them. Whilst most individuals have some type of filtering system, children and grownups with Aspergers syndrome will have a difficult time when it comes to filtering external sensory information.

How to identify a sensory overload

Your child might not want to put his or her clothing on because they're too scratchy or perhaps there is a tag on the back. Besides that, your child might refuse to go to public places since they're extremely noisy, as well as the lights might be too bright.

On the other hand, there are also children who will constantly seek and crave sensory stimuli even when they are affected by it. These children will run around the house, constantly crashing into objects and will continuously be on the go. They need to touch every little thing, experience all they can and will never sit quietly.

Auditory Integration Therapy

Al therapist who is trained to help children with sensory problems may have numerous techniques. One is the auditory integration therapy. Research has revealed that listening to specific music CDs with certain pitches and frequencies can in fact alter the manner in which the brain will process information.

The Wilbarger Brushing Protocol

This Aspergers treatment will be effective when children have responsive sensitivity problems. This treatment method involves the use a surgical brush in order to comb the individual skin in a certain way and this would be done repeatedly each day at set intervals. This needs to be carried out by trained therapist and if done properly, it could minimize sensitivity to responsive stimuli.

For more information on Aspergers and Aspergers Treatment visit any of the links in this authors bio.

This post was made using the Auto Blogging Software from WebMagnates.org This line will not appear when posts are made after activating the software to full version.

2012年9月6日星期四

Heavy Metal Mercury Poisoning - Chelation and the Link With Autism - Asperger's and ADHD

Similarities of Mercury Poisoning and Autism Spectrum Disorders, ADHD and Sensory Integration Dysfunction

Mercury Poisoning is thought to be one of the major biomedical causes of Autism, Attention Deficit Disorder Hyperactivity ADHD, Asperger's Syndrome, Sensory Integration Dysfunction and Pervasive Developmental Disorder PDD!

Mercury can affect the body in a variety of areas including speech and motor processing, cognitive and social abilities and create sensory abnormalities. Many of these symptoms are similar to those displayed in children on the autism spectrum or those with Asperger's syndrome, Pervasive Developmental Disorder PDD, sensory integration dysfunction and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder ADD/ ADHD.

"Mad hatters" syndrome was a direct result of the mercury used to cure felt when making a hat. Due to the mercury exposure, people who manufactured hats often suffered from dementia, mental illness or in general confusion. New studies are linking heavy metal toxicity to Alzheimer's disease and dementia.

Symptoms of Mercury Poisoning

Social withdrawal and lack of eye contact or visual fixation

Anxiety and mood swings

Failure to develop speech, articulation problems and echolalia (repetitive vocalizations)

Sound sensitivity

Abnormal touch sensations or touch aversion

Over sensitivity to light

Flapping or repetitive motions

Excessive salivation or drooling

Clumsiness and poor coordination

Difficulties in sitting, walking, crawling

Sleep difficulties

Poor concentration / attention issues / ADHD symptoms

Rashes or eczema

Digestive problems / diarrhea and constipation

Where did the mercury come from?

Vaccinations

A form of mercury called thimerosal was in several vaccines. According to the CDC "until 1999, vaccines given to infants to protect them against diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib), and Hepatitis B contained thimerosal as a preservative. Today, according to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, the only vaccines routinely recommended for children 6 years of age and younger that contain thimerosal are: one vaccine for DTaP, and three vaccines for influenza (flu). These four vaccines contain only trace amounts of thimerosal."

The vaccines do not cause autism, but if the body's detoxification system is not working properly, the person can have a difficult time expelling what would normally be considered unharmful amounts. Because the body can not expel these harmful toxins properly they are harboring within the body causing the symptoms listed above. This is part of the reason why it is critical to not get a child vaccinated when they are ill, even if it is just a cold.

Mercury Amalgam Dental Fillings

For dental work, stay away from mercury amalgam fillings. It is just safer to go with composite fillings. Again it may not be a problem for everyone, but for those individuals with impaired detoxification systems it can cause severe problems. The more fillings the greater the risk due to the cumulative effect of toxins. Before beginning chelation therapy mercury amalgam dental fillings should be removed to avoid further exposure to mercury!

Seafood

Unfortunately our food supply is contaminated. Tuna, swordfish and sea bass are amount the mostly highly contaminated fish with high levels of mercury. The website www.GotMercury.com has an online calculator to help you determine how much mercury is in your food.

Other Sources of Mercury

Damaged nonstick cookware or aluminum cookware

Toxic air from coal burning plants

Lawn and garden pesticides

Success Story

I ate tuna fish several times a week when I was pregnant and swordfish several times a month. The warnings that these larger fish were generally high mercury due to environmental pollution were just emerging in between my first and second child. I also received the flu shot as recommended when I was pregnant which does have thimerosal or mercury in it. I am sure these were contributing factors to why both my children were discovered to have toxic levels of lead and mercury in their little bodies. The Happy Sun shows actual before and after lab results of chelation therapy.

Chelation Therapy

Chelation therapy is the process of removing heavy metals from the body by taking a medication, which attracts and attached to the mercury and helps excrete it from the body. There is some medical controversy about using chelation for treatment of autism and ADD / ADHD issues because it is considered an "off label" treatment. However using botox for wrinkles is also an "off label" treatment as botox is designed to stop facial spasms and tics. You are in essence not treating autism or ADD / ADHD with chelation, but rather first testing the child to determine if heavy metal toxicity is an underlying problem and then using chelation therapy to treat the heavy metal toxicity. Click here to read more about testing for heavy metals.

Find yourself at The Happy Son! Mercury Poisoning Chelation Therapy Autism can be found at The Happy Son along with examples of real lab results. The Happy Son is a resource for biomedical interventions and helping you find out of the holistic answers for chemical imbalances including depression, SAD, autism, asperger's, sensory integration dysfunction, ADHD and weight loss.

This post was made using the Auto Blogging Software from WebMagnates.org This line will not appear when posts are made after activating the software to full version.

2012年8月28日星期二

Asperger's Syndrome Treatment - Six Therapies That Can Help Solve Your Child's Sensory Issues

Perhaps one of the most important kinds of treatment for kids diagnosed with Asperger's syndrome, a form of high functioning autism, is sensory integration therapy. What is sensory integration therapy? Well, kids with autism have a lot of sensory processing issues. This means that every kind of stimuli seems too extreme for them. While most people have some kind of filtering system, kids and adults with Asperger's syndrome have a very hard time filtering out extraneous sensory information.

What does a sensory overload look like?

Your child may not want to put on the clothes you laid out for him because they are too scratchy or there's a tag in the back. He may refuse to go into many public places because they are too noisy, or the lights are too bright. He may suddenly have a tantrum because the smell of someone's perfume is overwhelming him.

A Child Who Is Under-Sensitivity To His Surroundings May Also Have Problems

Conversely, there are also kids who are under-sensitive to sensory stimuli and are constantly seeking and craving it. They are the kids who will be tearing around your house, crashing into things and generally on the move all the time. They want to touch everything and experience everything, and can never seem to sit still.

What both of these categories have in common are deficits in the sensory processing system. And there are ways to treat them.

1. Auditory Integration Therapy

An occupational therapist who is trained in helping kids with sensory issues will have a number of tricks up their sleeve. One is auditory integration therapy (AIT). Studies have shown that listening to special CDs of music that have certain frequencies and pitches can actually change the way that the brain processes information. With this therapy, it's changing the way sounds are processed.

The person who is getting AIT listens to a CD made for them for two sessions of 30 minutes each per day, using headphones. Over a period of time, the music can actually change the way the brain hears the music, and make a person less over-reactive to loud noises, and more able to process sounds and language effectively.

2. The Wilbarger Brushing Protocol

The Wilbarger Brushing Protocol is a treatment for Asperger's syndrome when kids have tactile sensitivity issues. In other words, they have problems with touch. Kids with this problem often can't stand the feel of their clothes, can't stand to play outside because they might touch something weird, or jump if someone accidentally touches them.

This method of treatment involves using a surgical brush to brush the person's skin in a very specific way. This is done several times a day at preset intervals. It needs to be done with a trained therapist's supervision. When it is done correctly, it can reduce sensitivity to tactile stimuli.

3. Other Methods

There are many different tools that occupational therapists will use to help a child with Asperger's syndrome who has sensory issues. Many of these will be different for each child. A lot of them may look like playing, but it actually has specific goals and focuses on specific sensory systems in the body to change the way that system processes information.

Here are a few other techniques:

Weighted blankets: People with Asperger's often crave deep pressure, as it is calming to them. Weighted blankets provide this. This increases their ability to focus.
Trampolines, swing sets, and rocking toys: These can stimulate the vestibular system in a person with Asperger's. This can help either calm them down or stimulate them, depending on their sensitivities. Any activities involving movement can be helpful in this case.
Joint compression: This is a treatment an occupational therapist can teach you that can regulate a person's nervous system. It involves manipulating and pulling on joints in a certain way that acts to kind of reset the sensory system.
Sensory fidget bag: A sensory fidget bag can be useful to keep on hand. This should include anything that you can find to fill a bag with that your child can fidget with. Some examples are stress balls, koosh balls, feathers, slinkys, and so on. These sensations will give the child something to focus on, thus also having a calming effect.

As you can see, there are many ways that sensory integration issues can be treated. Sensory integration therapy can be a very useful treatment for children who exhibit specific symptoms of Asperger's syndrome.

Hopefully these tips can make life a little easier especially for children with Asperger's and their parents. In addition to these methods, there are many other tips and suggestions that can help your loved one live a fulfilling and happy life. A great site to find information to help children with Asperger's syndrome is the web site www.AspergersSociety.org. There you will be able to sign up for the FREE Asperger's Syndrome Newsletter as well as get additional information to help your loved one be happy and succeed in life.

This post was made using the Auto Blogging Software from WebMagnates.org This line will not appear when posts are made after activating the software to full version.

2012年7月15日星期日

What Is Aspergers (or Asbergers) and How Is It Treated?

Asperger syndrome or Asperger's syndrome is an autism spectrum disorder that's characterized by essential difficulties in social interaction, along with restricted and repeated patterns of behaviour and interests. This differs from some other autism spectrum issues by its family member preservation of linguistic as well as cognitive development. Although not required for prognosis, physical clumsiness and a typical use of language are regularly reported.

Asperger syndrome is named following Austrian pediatrician Hans Asperger who, in 1944, explained children in his practice who lacked nonverbal conversation skills, demonstrated limited empathy with their peers, and were being physically clumsy. Sixty years later, it turned out standardized as a diagnosis, but many requests remain about issues with the disorder. By way of example, there is skepticism about whether it is distinct from high-functioning autism (HFA); partly for this reason, its prevalence seriously isn't firmly established. It is often proposed that the actual diagnosis of Asperger's be eliminated, to be replaced with a diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder on the severity scale.

The exact cause is not known, although research supports the chance of a genetic time frame; brain imaging techniques haven't identified a obvious common pathology. There's no single treatment, plus the effectiveness of specific interventions is helped by only minimal data. Intervention is aimed towards improving symptoms as well as function. The mainstay of management can be behavioral therapy, emphasizing specific deficits to help address poor connecting skills, obsessive as well as repetitive routines, and physical clumsiness. Most children improve because they mature to adulthood, yet social and connection difficulties may continue to persist. Some researchers and those with Asperger's have strongly suggested a shift around attitudes toward the view that this it is a difference, rather than a disability that has to be treated or cured.

Characteristics

A pervasive developing disorder, Asperger syndrome is distinguished by way of a pattern of symptoms rather then a single indicator. It is recognized by qualitative impairment in social relationships, by stereotyped and also restricted patterns associated with behavior, activities as well as interests, and through no clinically major delay in intellectual development or typical delay in vocabulary. Intense preoccupation which includes a narrow subject, one-sided verbosity, limited prosody, and physical clumsiness are typical with this condition, but are not required for examination.

Treatments

The ideal remedy for AS coordinates options that address core symptoms from the disorder, including terrible communication skills and obsessive or recurring routines. While most professionals agree that the earlier the treatment, the better, there is no single best treatment package. AS medication resembles that connected with other high-functioning ASDs, except that it takes into account the linguistic features, verbal strengths, and nonverbal vulnerabilities of those that have AS. A usual program generally involves:

The training with social skills to get more detailed effective interpersonal interactions,

Cognitive behavioral therapy to further improve stress management in relation to anxiety or mind blowing emotions, and to minimize obsessive interests in addition to repetitive routines,

medicine, for coexisting conditions such as major depressive disorder and anxiety disorder,

occupational or physical therapy to help with poor sensory integration as well as motor coordination, interpersonal communication intervention, which is specialized speech therapy to assist with the pragmatics belonging to the give and receive of normal discussion.

The training as well as support of mum and dad, particularly in behavioral techniques to use in the home.

Of the quite a few studies on behavior-based quick intervention programs, most are event studies of about five participants, and typically examine some problem behaviors for example self-injury, aggression, noncompliance, stereotypies, as well as spontaneous language; unintended negative effects are largely pushed aside. Despite the recognition of social ability training, its effectiveness just isn't firmly established. A randomized controlled study of a model for teaching parents in problem behaviors of their children with SINCE showed that mother and father attending a one-day course or six unique lessons reported lesser number of behavioral problems, while parents receiving the individual lessons reported a lesser amount of intense behavioral problems in their AS children. Vocational training is not optional to teach position interview etiquette and workplace behavior to older children and adults with AS, and organization application and personal data assistants can enhance the work and lifetime management of those that have AS.

Asbergers Disorder

This post was made using the Auto Blogging Software from WebMagnates.org This line will not appear when posts are made after activating the software to full version.

2012年7月12日星期四

Educational Services For Aspergers Syndrome

Aspergers Syndrome is one of the conditions that belong to the autism spectrum of disorders. It is a broad spectrum of developmental delays, conditions, or disabilities that includes autism as one of its symptoms. Along with others, they belong to a spectrum of disorders because any of these symptoms could combine with other similar symptoms with autism.

This condition is generally uncommon; it is known to affect about four hundred thousand families in the United States alone. Although the diagnosis of this condition is generally difficult, it gets easier at an early age, typically about three years old. Treatment is similar to Autism with behavioral modifications and lots of therapy.

The number one characteristic that is typical of this condition is their poor social skills. They may show social interaction that is not typical of an average child--it may be inappropriate at times and also quite minimal. They may be able to communicate but in repetitive words and phrases, and their movements may be unusual. They tend to develop mannerisms and movements that are too awkward for a common child. They also lack cognitive skills such as reading, writing, and solving math problems, but most of these skills are combated when they go to a special needs school.

What makes them different from Autism is that these kids usually do not have any delays in language development, although they may have trouble using it in social context. There are also no obvious delays in activities of daily living. These kids can bathe, eat, and dress like any other normal kid. They may even have higher intelligence than most kids of their age.

These kids can become the best that they can be with proper education and therapy. The symptoms may differ from one child to the next so they need to have the best care possible that is suited to their individual needs. This condition varies a lot so the choice of service is essential in determining which works best with your child.

As a parent, we all know dealing with a child with special needs is very challenging. Therefore we need all the help we can get to help them grow to be the best that they can be. Nurture their skills and capabilities through schools that offer techniques for children with special needs. They may need several sessions of physical therapy ad occupational therapy to further promote their functional abilities.

Treatment for this condition may include a lot of specialized education intervention, training in social interaction, sensory integration, behavioral modification, and parent education. All these managements are being assisted by a professional that a parent needs to work with in order to bring out the best holistic approach.

In New Jersey, there are several facilities that provide services for children with this condition. Centers like The NJ ABC's Center for Autism offer Applied Behavioral Analysis for children with autistic syndromes. There are also support groups that may lend a hand to you such as Asperger Friends in North Flemington, New Jersey. Because with Aspergers, you need all the help you can get.

Learn more about how autism centers assist autistic children with aspergers syndrome at the New Jersey Autism Center.

This post was made using the Auto Blogging Software from WebMagnates.org This line will not appear when posts are made after activating the software to full version.

2012年6月23日星期六

Asperger's Syndrome Symptoms - Is There Such a Thing As Asperger's Syndrome Treatment?

Asperger's Syndrome Symptoms can be as varied as they are wide, but that is of little assistance to those who are trying to recognize or diagnose Aspergers in a child, loved one, or themselves.

So what are some of the classic Asperger's Syndrome Symptoms?

Symptoms during childhood

Parents often first notice the symptoms of Asperger's syndrome during preschool years when their child begin to interact with their peer group and teachers. The following are some typical symptoms in children to be aware of:

Being unable to pick up on social cues such as body language, eye contact, and maintaining a meaningful conversation.

A distinct dislike for changes in routine.

An apparent lack of social empathy, often mistaken for age appropriate egocentric tendencies (most kids believe they are the centre of their own universes).

An inability to differentiate between changes in speech tone, pitch and accent that would otherwise convey a change in meaning. Aspergers children are apt to adopt the literal over the inferred.

Exhibiting a formalized, ritualistic speech seemingly advanced for their age. Your child may seem like 'the little professor'.

Unusual facial expressions and delayed motor development.

A pre-occupation with interests. This can often be difficult to distinguish from typical adolescent fascination. Look for an almost fanatically engrossed interest and knowledge base in subject matter to the exclusion of others, often spoken about.

Sensory integration dysfunction manifested by a heightened sensitivity to external stimuli such as noises, lights or strong tastes.

Whilst the condition is in some ways similar to autism, children with Aspergers often display normal to advanced language and intellectual development but latent social skills. Aspergers children are often described (somewhat unfairly) as 'smart kids with autism'.

Symptoms during adolescent and teen years

Many Asperger's syndrome symptoms persist through adolescence and teen years, and whilst rote learning can assist Asperger's sufferers in dealing with social situations, communication often still remains difficult. Teens with Aspergers often feel shy, or intimidated by social situations and approaching their peer group. They may be aware of their lack of acceptance but unsure as to the reasons why. This can trigger feelings of anxiety, of being 'different', and in extended circumstances, depression.

Often trying to 'fit in' may evoke feelings of frustration and be emotionally draining for teens with Asperger's. Their genuine nature may result in their being the subject of bullying.

If these are the symptoms of Aspergers how do we go from diagnosis to treatment? Whether your child is displaying Asperger's syndrome symptoms in early or later years, there are increasingly advanced methods to effectively deal with the symptoms typical of the disorder and avoid the pitfalls which historically have been indicative of the condition. Many are grounded in utilising rote learning of what might ordinarily be intuitive or naturally developed social growth and awareness. The use of pre-taught responses to certain situations can assist in the reduction of anxiety responses. There are in fact a large number of strategies which can be implemented to effectively deal with almost all situations arising out of Aspergers disorder, and whilst the time investment in overcoming the disorder can be significant, the life quality expectations of the sufferer can be equally advanced.

Want more information? Before spending thousands in consultancy fees, be 'in the know' by discovering insider tips about the recognition, diagnosis and treatment of Aspergers Syndrome Here

This post was made using the Auto Blogging Software from WebMagnates.org This line will not appear when posts are made after activating the software to full version.

2012年5月23日星期三

Asperger's Syndrome Treatment - Six Therapies That Can Help Solve Your Child's Sensory Issues

What does a sensory overload look like?

A Child Who Is Under-Sensitivity To His Surroundings May Also Have Problems

What both of these categories have in common are deficits in the sensory processing system. And there are ways to treat them.

1. Auditory Integration Therapy

2. The Wilbarger Brushing Protocol

3. Other Methods

Here are a few other techniques:

This post was made using the Auto Blogging Software from WebMagnates.org This line will not appear when posts are made after activating the software to full version.

2012年3月6日星期二

A Parent's Introduction to Aspergers Syndrome

Aspergers Syndrome (AS) is in the category of developmental disorders of the Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) that is under the umbrella of Pervasive Developmental Disorders or PDD. It is different from Autism because there is not a specific delay of language or cognitive development, but does share the clumsiness (tripping, bumping, dropping things, etc.) aspects, although these are not particular to the diagnosis.

Why call it Aspergers?

It is named after Hans Asperger who, in 1944, described children in his pediatric practice who lacked nonverbal communication skills, were non-empathetic with their peers, and were physically clumsy. It is sometimes referred to as a high functioning autism.

Treatment

Aspergers Syndrome is treated mainly through behavioral therapy that is designed to work on communication skills, social skills, coping mechanisms, and helping with obsessions and repetitive routines. Most people with AS learn to cope with their differences, but may need support and encouragement to maintain their independence.

A typical treatment program for a child with Aspergers Syndrome includes:

The training of social skills for more effective interpersonal interactions
Cognitive behavioral therapy to improve stress management relating to anxiety or explosive emotions, and to cut back on obsessive interests and repetitive routines
Medication, for coexisting conditions such as depression and anxiety
Occupational or physical therapy to assist with poor sensory integration and motor coordination
Social communication intervention, which is specialized speech therapy to help with the pragmatics of the give and take of normal conversation
The training and support of parents, particularly in behavioral techniques to use in the home

Kids with Aspergers don't usually share the withdrawn isolation of children with autism and will openly, but often very awkwardly, approach and engage others in social situation. However, their inability see things through others eyes, and the tendency to go overboard going on and on about their latest obsession, makes them appear selfish, uncaring and insensitive toward other people. This is not necessarily true, they just don't realize how they are perceived or that other people have different interests and feelings than they do.

Many of the children with Aspergers will actually memorize reactions in specific social situations, and recite definitions or examples of emotion, but have a very hard time acting on any of that knowledge in a real situation. Or they will use a rigid application of the specific social rules they have memorized. This can come across as forced eye contact, or the plastered on smile, or laughing at the wrong time. They want friends and do seek out social contact, but over the years their failures in these situations can be devastating.

Kids with Aspergers will sometimes develop very focused and intense interest in something or some activity, that will completely dominate their time and their life, almost to the exclusion of everything else, and they will try to draw whoever they can into the same interest. This is usually seen as normal childhood interest and behavior at first, until the obsessive qualities become apparent and problems relating to anything or anyone else starts happening.

Diagnosis

The diagnosis uses the identification of the stereotypical and repetitive behaviors as a central part of how it is diagnosed, but confirmation is done by ruling out anything else that can cause the same symptoms. The motor behaviors that are observed are things like the hand flapping or twisting, complex whole body movements and walking on tip toes, repeating the same word or sound over and over again are all typical repetitive behaviors of AS.

Other Issues

Your child may display symptoms that aren't a part of an Aspergers Syndrome diagnosis, but still affect the child and your whole family. They may have perception difficulties, and problems with fine or gross motor skills, handling emotions, and difficulty sleeping. Many kids on the spectrum (Autism Spectrum) have trouble with SI, or Sensory Integration, and can be overly sensitive or under sensitive to sound light, touch, texture, taste, smell, pain, temperature and other things that stimulate the senses. It may feel soft and nice to you, but to them, it can be actually painful.

Children with Aspergers are more likely to have sleep problems, including difficulty in falling asleep, waking up often at night, and early morning awakenings. Aspergers is also associated with alexithymia, which means having problems identifying and describing ones emotions. My daughter certainly has emotions and feelings, but she has no idea how to describe them or even what they are, or why they are there. Very frustrating.

Special Education

Children with AS may require special education services because of their social and behavioral difficulties, although many attend regular education classes. Teens and tween with Aspergers may have difficulty with self-care, organization and disturbances in social and romantic relationship. They are usually very smart, but the inability to properly express and the awkwardness of social contact keep many from leaving home as adults, although some gain independence in work and domicile, even marrying and raising a family. Teen and preteen years are hard enough on kids without social difficulties, but can be very traumatic for a kid dealing with Aspergers.

Coexisting Conditions

Anxiety with AS is very common, and is usually centered on change or transition. That is why a consistent schedule is so important. Anxiety and stress during social situations is inevitable because of the constantly changing nature of humans and relationships and situations, there isn't a single right thing to do in every situation. Stress and anxiety will show up usually as a behavior, such as withdrawal, an obsession, hyperactivity, or even aggressive or oppositional behavior.

Depression, and other mood disorders, can be the end result of the constant stress and frustration of failing to properly socialize and make friends. Medication and behavior therapy can be used to deal with co-existing problems such as anxiety, depression, inattention, obsessive compulsion, and aggression.

Getting the family involved by helping them to understand what is going on with their child or brother or sister, will have a big impact on the child's future. It will also help with being able to deal with everything that is involved in dealing with a child with Aspergers Syndrome and bring some semblance of normalcy back to the family. Getting help early and involving the whole family as a built in support system has the best effect on long term outcomes for a child with Aspergers Syndrome.

Judson Greenman, advocate and father of four very special girls started these websites as a way of sharing the joys and challenges of Raising Special Kids - from one parent to another. See it all at http://www.my-special-kids.com and http://www.anieleirose.org

This post was made using the Auto Blogging Software from WebMagnates.org This line will not appear when posts are made after activating the software to full version.

2012年3月3日星期六

What is Aspergers Syndrome and How Do I Know If My Child Has It?

Are you the parent of a young child that may have some signs of autism but does not have a lot of them? Have you been told by a Doctor or special education personnel that your child may have Aspergers Syndrome (AD)? Would you like to learn about characteristics of the disorder so that you can pursue private evaluations? This article will be discussing the characteristics of this syndrome so that you will be able to advocate for appropriate educational services for your child.

This disorder was initially described by Hans Asperger in 1944. He found a number of cases whose clinical characteristics were similar to autism, but differed in the fact that the speech was less commonly delayed, motor clumsiness was much more common, and initial cases seem to only occur in boys.

In 1994 The American Psychiatric Association added Aspergers syndrome to its Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, often referred to as the DSM IV. It is listed by itself in its own category and not under the autism umbrella, but under the broader Pervasive Developmental Disorder.

Characteristics of this disorder are:

1. Major impairment in social interaction which may show in lack of empathy, difficulty with spontaneity, difficulty in developing friendships with peers, ability to show social reciprocity which is back and forth communication, and impairments in eye contact, posture and gestures.

2. Restricted repetitive patterns of behavior, interests and activities. This can be shown by preoccupation with one area of interest that is abnormal in intensity or focus. The child may be very inflexible when it comes to daily routines or rituals, and also may show an extreme preoccupation with a part of objects.

3. While a child with AD acquire language skills without delay, they often have abnormalities in how they use language.

4. Children with this disorder may also have unusual sensory experiences, like sensitivities to light or sound. This disorder is called Sensory Integration dysfunction.

5. Motor clumsiness is another characteristic of this disorder. Children with this disorder may be delayed in learning skills that require motor dexterity such as riding a bike or opening a jar.

6. Children with this disorder do not show a significant delay in cognitive development.

7. Some children with this disorder are extremely bright with very high IQ's.

The best way to determine if a child has Aspergers is to have your child evaluated by a competent trained professional such as a Neuropsychologist or a Clinical Psychologist. Many school psychologists are not trained to diagnose this disorder, so it may be best to have your child privately tested. Two of the instruments that may be used are the Autism Diagnostic Interview Revised (ADI R), and the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule (ADOS).

It is important to note however that this disorder may be Co Morbid with other disorders. This means that the child may have other disorders as well. These may be ADHD, Bi Polar Disorder, Learning Disabilities, or Obsessive Compulsive Disorder. The earlier the treatment for this disorder and co morbid disorders, the better it will be for your child. Appropriate special education services can help your child be ready for post school learning and independent living, as the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) requires!

This post was made using the Auto Blogging Software from WebMagnates.org This line will not appear when posts are made after activating the software to full version.

2012年2月5日星期日

How To Handle The Meltdown Of A Child With Aspergers

It's a well-known fact that children with Asperger's syndrome have the occasional meltdown. It is usually triggered by things which may perplex the normal mind but makes perfect sense to the child with aspergers. Meltdowns aren't planned, but when they happen everybody that is involved with calming down the kid feels the pain of the meltdown in their own way. When a meltdown starts the first thing you must do is make sure that everybody around the kid with aspergers and the kid remains safe until the end.

Professionals that have studied the meltdowns of children with aspergers have defined 4 distinct stages that happen that are usually followed by a recovery period. Stage one is the 'starting out' stage, where you as a parent would start to hear whispers of a meltdown coming on.

Stage two is the 'picking up steam' stage, where it begins to become evident which a meltdown is about to occur. Stage 3 is the 'point of no return' stage, where the child's flight reaction kicks in. Its normally here which reasoning will become impossible with the kid and you have to let nature takes it's course. Stage four is the 'explosion' stage and the child is in full meltdown.

To help stop meltdowns in children with Asperger's before it happens, you can put your kid on a sensory diet.

This diet would aid prevent the very first stage of a kid's meltdown from even starting, thereby preventing the meltdown. You can start out by employing a sensory integration session with your kid every day, getting ideas on how to regulate your child's sensory input from his or her doctor, school counselor, or special education teacher. When used proactively this is a good, solid start in stopping a meltdown.

The next thing you have to work with your child with aspergers on is visual supports. By giving them images to help them understand cause and effect, you can aid make sensory transitions smoother and keep triggers at bay. Visual supports used on a habitual schedule with sensory integration will help your child remain in control. They need to be used before the triggers are released in your kid and the meltdown starts.

The last thing which you'll have to do is assist your child with aspergers to manage their emotions. Since we do not understand what triggers a meltdown, you need to sit and talk with your child about how they feel when the meltdown begins and what they were thinking about. It takes time to assist a kid with aspergers learn to cope with emotions that are too big for them, but it could be done.

Children with aspergers and their families don't have to meltdown any longer. With proactive work on sensory integration, visual supports and emotion management, your kid with aspergers can stop many meltdowns.
Access the best Asperger syndrome community to assist with your parenting by going to http://www.parentingaspergerscommunity.com

This post was made using the Auto Blogging Software from WebMagnates.org This line will not appear when posts are made after activating the software to full version.

2012年1月25日星期三

8 Important Items to Help You Advocate For Your Child With Aspergers Syndrome

Things that you need to know.

1. Aspergers Syndrome has its own category in the Diagnostic Statistical Manual (DSM IV) that is used for diagnosis. It is under the umbrella of Pervasive Developmental Disorders (PDD).

5. Small groups may help your child with their education and also to develop appropriate social skills.

6. Modifications and adaptations in the regular classroom may help your child keep up with their peers.

8. Many children with Aspergers may need Occupational Therapy also for motor clumsiness. Ask for specific testing in this area if your child shows need.

Keep these 8 items in mind when you attend Individual Educational Plan Meetings (IEP) for your child. They will assist you in trying to help your child receive a Free Appropriate Public Education!

This post was made using the Auto Blogging Software from WebMagnates.org This line will not appear when posts are made after activating the software to full version.

Heavy Metal Mercury Poisoning - Chelation and the Link With Autism - Asperger's and ADHD

Similarities of Mercury Poisoning and Autism Spectrum Disorders, ADHD and Sensory Integration Dysfunction

Symptoms of Mercury Poisoning

Social withdrawal and lack of eye contact or visual fixation

Anxiety and mood swings

Failure to develop speech, articulation problems and echolalia (repetitive vocalizations)

Sound sensitivity

Abnormal touch sensations or touch aversion

Over sensitivity to light

Flapping or repetitive motions

Excessive salivation or drooling

Clumsiness and poor coordination

Difficulties in sitting, walking, crawling

Sleep difficulties

Poor concentration / attention issues / ADHD symptoms

Rashes or eczema

Digestive problems / diarrhea and constipation

Where did the mercury come from?

Vaccinations

Mercury Amalgam Dental Fillings

Seafood

Other Sources of Mercury

Damaged nonstick cookware or aluminum cookware

Toxic air from coal burning plants

Lawn and garden pesticides

Success Story

Chelation Therapy

This post was made using the Auto Blogging Software from WebMagnates.org This line will not appear when posts are made after activating the software to full version.

2011年12月25日星期日

Asperger's Syndrome Treatment - Six Therapies That Can Help Solve Your Child's Sensory Issues

What does a sensory overload look like?

A Child Who Is Under-Sensitivity To His Surroundings May Also Have Problems

What both of these categories have in common are deficits in the sensory processing system. And there are ways to treat them.

1. Auditory Integration Therapy

2. The Wilbarger Brushing Protocol

3. Other Methods

Here are a few other techniques:

This post was made using the Auto Blogging Software from WebMagnates.org This line will not appear when posts are made after activating the software to full version.

2012年9月18日 星期二

2012年9月11日 星期二

2012年9月6日 星期四

2012年8月28日 星期二

2012年7月15日 星期日

2012年7月12日 星期四

2012年6月23日 星期六

2012年5月23日 星期三

2012年3月6日 星期二

2012年3月3日 星期六

2012年2月5日 星期日

2012年1月25日 星期三

2011年12月25日 星期日

2012年9月18日星期二

2012年9月11日星期二

2012年9月6日星期四

2012年8月28日星期二

2012年7月15日星期日

2012年7月12日星期四

2012年6月23日星期六

2012年5月23日星期三

2012年3月6日星期二

2012年3月3日星期六

2012年2月5日星期日

2012年1月25日星期三

2011年12月25日星期日