"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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My boy is also very tactile, he has one of those giant bears from Costco that lays on top of him, over his blanket.
My son had this problem - excess adrenaline can impede melatonin production so I used supplemental melatonin 3mg 1 hr before bed. Very safe and effective. I also use adaptogens for adrenals and have a strict bed time routine with a relaxing bath and snack. No cocoa or caffeine foods, no sugar, and no electronics for 1 hr before bed, with lights dim (bright light shuts off melatonin in the brain).
This works for my son and there are studies now being done here in Ontario on melatonin supplements for Aspie kids.
Namaste!
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body's blood pressure with desired side affect of sleepiness. Non-residual medication (not dopey next morning). We explored the 'natural therapies' route first, unfortunately nothing achieved the desired effect.
Likes audiobooks, but would never fall asleep with one on, but reduces his anxiety about not being able to sleep. oh, stephen fry, that's who that guy is! Also likes 'old mother west wind' - very gentle.
He also has a flip key-ring of pictures of things to do to help with sleep, e.g., deep breaths, play a movie in his head, imagine a story in head, count by 8s, 9s, etc.
Has ongoing 'night terrors'; will run thru house in sleep, run into walls, very agitated.