My ASD Child

Effective management of Asperger’s (AS) and High Functioning Autism (HFA) should focus not only on the affected youngster, but also on the family. Although moms and dads once were viewed erroneously as the cause of a youngster's Autism Spectrum Disorder, it is now recognized that they play a major role in effective treatment. Having a youngster on the autism spectrum has a significant effect on a family. Parents and siblings of autistic kids experience more stress and depression than those of kids who are “typically developing” – or even those who have other disabilities. Supporting the family and ensuring its emotional and physical health is an extremely important aspect of overall management of AS and HFA. Doctors, therapists and other health care professionals can provide family support in the following ways:   assisting parents in advocating for their AS or HFA youngster's special needs assisting parents in advocating for the sibling's needs assisting pa

Problematic emotional reactions and behaviors (e.g., aggression, meltdowns, self-injury, etc.) are common in kids and teens with Asperger’s (AS) and High Functioning Autism (HFA). In many cases, medical conditions may cause or exacerbate maladaptive behaviors. Recognition and treatment of these conditions may eliminate the need for medications (e.g., in the case of an acute onset of aggressive or self-injurious behavior, the source of pain can be identified and treated). Some of the sources of physical discomfort that may cause or exacerbate maladaptive behaviors in AS and HFA children include the following: allergic rhinitis (allergic inflammation of the nasal airways) colitis (inflammation of the inner lining of the colon) constipation dental abscess esophagitis (inflammation of the esophagus) fractures gastritis (inflammation, irritation, or erosion of the lining of the stomach) headaches otitis externa (inflammation of the outer ear and ear canal) otitis media (mid

It's tempting to put off back-to-school preparations until the first day is just a week or so away. The resulting last-minute flurry of phone calls, errands, and meetings can be overwhelming. But this year, you can make the back-to-school process easier. This video will focus on simple things you can do NOW to make this the best transition to the new school year ever.