"Is there a list of symptoms or traits associated with high functioning autism in children? We currently have suspicions that our 6 y.o. son may be on the autism spectrum and are wondering if we should take the next step and have him assessed." Below is a list of common traits among children and teens with High-Functioning Autism and Asperger's. However, no child will exhibit all of these traits. Also, the degree (i.e., mild to severe) to which any particular trait is experienced will vary from child to child. Emotions and Sensitivities: An emotional incident can determine the mood for the day. Becomes overwhelmed with too much verbal direction. Calmed by external stimulation (e.g., soothing sound, brushing, rotating object, constant pressure). Desires comfort items (e.g., blankets, teddy, rock, string). Difficulty with loud or sudden sounds. Emotions can pass very suddenly or are drawn out for a long period of time. Inappropriate touching o...
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I was wondering if you have written anything that may address the difficulties of encountering people, teachers, etc who seem to only identify autism as someone who looks like Rainman, lower functioning, Etc? I'm constantly finding myself having to defend the diagnosis we received from Duke with professionals who "don't see the Autism" because of the subtleties of my daughter's symptoms (at least for them - it's glaringly obvious to the private therapists who work with her). I've been trying to convey to them to look at the LACK OF BEHAVIORS, as they seem to be looking for meltdowns, aggression and constantly telling us, "but she's so smart".
Thank you for all of your amazing articles!!!
I obviously wait until the meltdown is over and explain why he is responsible for his actions. I also consider all information when choosing a consequence...but he does have a consequence.
Here's some more logic for you...if an alcholic (a disease where the person has no control over their drinking), drinks and drives and harms someone, should they have consequenses? They didn't really CHOSE to drink and drive because their disease doesn't allow them control, right? a behavioral symptom is not the same as a seizure. You can use behavioral modification to modify behavioral symptoms of aspergers, you can not however use the same type of modifications for a seizure.
I have to hide them.
But I can't make them go away. They end up as bouts of depression (interior meltdown's). They'll go away- but instead of feeling sleepy- I think I get so emotionally sick that's it ain't fun.
My meltdown have never left. They just attack me from the inside.
Now I can't do anything about them.
A certain book said that meltdowns were similar to throwing up. If you were grounded for throwing up- and held it in- what would happen? Probably intense stomach cramps- my guess. Very intense.