My ASD Child

"Josh, our 7-year-old son with [high-functioning] autism, has had 5 weeks of school so far. My husband and I have noticed a change (for the worse) in his behavior ever since he started. We suspect he is being bullied by a particular individual, but Josh has not come right out and told us if this is indeed going on. Any advice?" Young people with ASD level 1, or High Functioning Autism, unfortunately, are at a higher risk of being bullied or teased than other children. This can happen on the playground, in the classroom - and even in your own home. Because many of these kids have some social and communication difficulties, they often can’t tell grown-ups exactly what is happening. Thus, parents and teachers may have to consider bullying as a cause when certain behaviors occur or worsen in the child. Here are a few examples: One of the things you’ll notice is an increase in isolation and a decreased tolerance in being around peers. The ASD child may throw temper

"My autistic son (high functioning) will be turning 6 next week. We are considering having a birthday party for him and inviting a few of his neighborhood friends over. However, in times past, he has not done well with all the hustle and bustle that comes with 'partying'. Do you have any ideas about how we can have a better experience this time so that things don't result in a meltdown?" Exciting times like Christmas, Thanksgiving, and birthdays are all a time to share our joy and happiness with our families and friends. We all have fond memories of our own childhood when we looked forward to putting up the decorations, eating mouth watering meals, and receiving all those longed for presents. As moms and dads, we naturally want our kids to enjoy it all  and have as much fun as we did. So we talk, anticipate, and prepare with mounting excitement as the child's birthday draws nearer.    However, for those parents who are raising a youngster with ASD or Hi

"Obviously there's no 'cure' for autism, but are there any medications or supplements that parents have used that help treat some of the symptoms in their high-functioning autistic child?" There are no medications that specifically treat High-Functioning Autism (HFA) or Aspergers (AS), but there are some medications, supplements, and dietary strategies that may improve certain associated symptoms (e.g., anxiety, depression, hyperactivity, etc.) that can occur in many kids on the autism spectrum. Some examples include the following: 1. SSRIs: Drugs such as Luvox may be used to treat depression or to help control repetitive behaviors. Possible side effects include restlessness and agitation. 2. Risperdal: This medication may be prescribed for agitation and irritability. It may cause trouble sleeping, a runny nose and an increased appetite. This drug has also been associated with an increase in cholesterol and blood sugar levels. 3. Zyprexa: Olanzapine