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2012年9月16日 星期日

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Kids with Aspergers don't usually share the withdrawn isolation of children with autism and will openly, but often very awkwardly, approach and engage others in social situation.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





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2012年7月17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





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2012年5月6日 星期日

An Introduction to Overcoming Dyslexia


Children with dyslexia have difficulty in learning to read despite having average or above average intelligence and receiving regular instruction, Dyslexia is caused by impairment in the brain's ability to translate images received from the eyes or ears into understandable language. It never results from vision or hearing problems, neither from mental retardation, brain damage, or a lack of intelligence.

Dyslexia like other learning disabilities can be very difficult to diagnose often going undetected until the later grades of school. There can be other problems that disguise Dyslexia. The child becomes frustrated by the difficulty in learning to read often resulting in behavioral problems at school and in the home environment. The child may also display signs of depression and low self-esteem. All these problems often lead to a lack of motivation to attend school.

Diagnoses and Types of Dyslexia

There are different types of Dyslexia.

"Trauma dyslexia" usually occurs because of brain trauma or injury to the area of the brain that controls reading and writing. This is rare.

"Primary dyslexia." This type of dyslexia is a dysfunction of the left hemisphere of the brain (cerebral cortex) and does not change with age. Individuals may struggle with reading, spelling and writing as adults. Primary dyslexia is passed through their genes (hereditary). It is found more in boys than in girls.

"Secondary" or "Developmental dyslexia" is felt to be caused by hormones during the early stages of fetal development. Developmental dyslexia diminishes with the maturity of the child. This also is more common in boys.

Dyslexia is a difficult disorder to diagnose. Testing for Dyslexia should determine the child's functional reading level and compare it to reading potential, which is evaluated by an intelligence test. The aspects of the reading process are examined to pinpoint where the breakdown is occurring. The test further assesses how a child takes in and processes information and what the child does with the information. The tests help determine if a child learns better by hearing information (auditory), looking at information (visual), or doing something (kinesthetic). The test also assess if a child performs better when allowed to give information (output), by saying something (oral), or by doing something with their hands (tactile-kinesthetic). The test also would evaluate as how all of these sensory systems (modalities) work in coordination with each other.

Some requirements for a child before they are tested is that the child should get a good night's sleep and have a good breakfast. If the testing needs to be done in a school setting, the teacher can prepare the child by talking about the person who will come and do special work with the child.

A standard set of tests can include, but is not limited to, the following:

1. Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children-Third Edition (WISC-III)

2. Kaufman Assessment Battery for Children (KABC)

3. Stanford-Binet Intelligence Scale

4. Woodcock-Johnson Psycho-Educational Battery

5. Peabody Individual Achievement Tests-Revised (PIAT)

6. Wechsler Individual Achievement Tests (WIAT)

7. Kaufman Tests of Educational Achievement (KTEA)

8. Bender Gestalt Test of Visual Motor Perception

9. Beery Developmental Test of Visual-Motor Integration

10. Motor-Free Visual Perception Test

11. Visual Aural Digit Span Test (VADS)

12. Test of Auditory Perception (TAPS)

13. Test of Visual Perception (TVPS)

14. Peabody Picture Vocabulary Test-Revised

15. Expressive One-Word Picture Vocabulary Test

16. Test for Auditory Comprehension of Language

Treatment & Teaching Methods

Before any treatment is started, an evaluation must be done to determine the child's specific area of disability. The school can develop a plan with the parent to meet the child's requirements. A treatment plan will focus on strengthening the child's weaknesses while utilizing the strengths. Another approach may be a systematic study of phonics. There can be techniques designed to help all the senses work together efficiently can also be used. There can be reading approaches that require a child to hear, see, say, and do something (multisensory), such as the Slingerland Method, the Orton-Gillingham Method, The Spalding Method, Alphabetic Phonics, The Herman Method, The Wilson Method or Project READ can be used.

The child should be taught compensation and coping skills. Good attention should be paid to optimum learning conditions and alternative avenues for student performance.

Although alternative treatments are commonly recommended, there is little research supporting the effectiveness of these treatments. In addition, these treatments are very costly, quite easy for frustrated parents to be misled by something that is expensive and sounds attractive. Perhaps the most important aspect of any treatment plan is attitude. The child will be greatly influenced by the attitudes of the adults around him.




Educational Adventures a family portal.





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2012年3月5日 星期一

An Introduction to Holistic Medicine


The word holistic - sometimes wholistic - is derived from the Greek word holos, meaning complete or unified, and refers to an approach which recognises that living systems must be regarded in their entirety, and that an organism is more than the sum of its parts. The holistic therapist treats the whole person, taking into account such factors as diet, environmental conditions, heredity and the psychic and psychological make-up of the individual.

Vital Energy

This approach differs radically from that of orthodox medicine, where the emphasis is on the diagnosis and treatment of the symptoms of disease, and where illness is usually regarded in terms of local disorders affecting specific organs or parts of the body. In holistic medicine, spontaneous disease is regarded as a general or overall imbalance in the individual's vital energy flow, which may be corrected using natural healing methods and by prescribing the optimum conditions in which the body's own self-healing process can take place. According to the holistic view, illness is not something you have, but something you express. An individual is not ill because he or she has a tumor, but has developed a tumor because he or she is ill.

Balance

Whereas orthodox doctors are interested in knowing what kind of disease a person has, holistic practitioners are more interested in finding out what kind of person has that disease. Whereas the primary aim of a conventional doctor is to diagnose the patient's illness by taking note of signs and symptoms like pain, swelling, rashes and so on, the first objective of a holistic practitioner is to find out as much as possible about the patient's background - not just their medical history, but also their lifestyle, diet, mental outlook, ambitions, creative drive and so on. Disease - and vulnerability to infection etc. - is seen as a consequence of some deeper or more general imbalance.

Mind and Body

In holistic medicine, body and mind are regarded as one integral function, rather than separate mechanisms, and there is an emphasis on mental and emotional states and the effect these have on health and well-being. Another feature of holistic medicine which distinguishes it from the orthodox or allopathic approach is the emphasis it places on preventative systems. Whereas most general practitioners only see their patients when they become ill, most holistic therapists prefer to see their patients on a regular basis, whether or not they feel unwell. Holistic medicine, therefore, is aimed at eliminating the causes of disease, or strengthening the body's resistance to disease, whereas conventional medicine is largely concerned with the suppression and control of its symptoms.

The following is a brief summary of the most widely available and most popular complementary and holistic therapies:

ACUPUNCTURE is an ancient Chinese system based on the principle that the body's vital energy ("Chi") travels along fixed channels or meridians, and that it is possible to restore health, eliminate pain and so on, by manipulating this energy by inserting needles into the skin at specific points along these meridians. In acupuncture, disease is classified in terms of qualities of body function and energy flow, and diagnosis is made by close observation of such physical signs as skin colour and texture, the distribution of hot or cold patches, subtle body odours, action of the joints and, above all, the reading of the twelve pulses. Many modern acupuncturists now use electrical stimulation in place of, or in addition to the use of needles. Acupuncture is also now used in conventional medicine, but mainly as a means of controlling pain rather than treating illness.

ACUPRESSURE involves the application of finger pressure to Chi energy points.

CHIROPRACTIC is a system which emphasises the importance of the correct alignment of the spinal vertebrae to relieve various symptoms, particularly - but by no means exclusively - back and neck problems. The method involves manipulation and deep massage, and complementary exercise and diet programmes are often prescribed. Chiropractic therapy was developed by Daniel David Palmer, who based the system on the following observations:

* 1. Impulses are properly transmitted through the nerves, and produce normal functions in a state of health.

* 2. Any sort of pressure upon any part of the nervous system affects the efficiency of the nervous system, amplifying or reducing its capacity for transmitting impulses.

* 3. Pressure can be caused by substances adjacent to the nerve(s), by irritation of the sensory nerves, by toxins which can irritate the sensory nerves, including muscular contractions with resultant pulling of the bone out of its correct alignment.

* 4. Slight pressure upon a nerve irritates; increase of irritation produces alteration of function which may develop even to a degree of paralysis.

HERBAL MEDICINE is the use of the curative properties of plants in the treatment of disease; it is the oldest healing system that we know of. Herbal medicine was popular in ancient Egypt, as well as in China and ancient Greece. Many herbalists believe that for every disease there is a herbal cure. It is not known how or when herbal medicine first originated, but it seems most likely that the ability to select specific plants to treat disease was at one time instinctive in humans (as it is in animals). In certain situations humans rediscover this instinct (for example, pregnant women often develop strong urges for foods containing substances which their bodies require). In the past, a herbalist would go out walking in the forest or countryside and intuitively or instinctively pick the plants to be administered to his or her "patient". In time, specific herbs came to be recognised as cures for certain conditions. Lists and charts were compiled, and the system of herbal medicine was developed.

Herbs are divided into a number of different categories:

Alteratives: These are used in the treatment of advanced disease and are particularly potent.
Astringents: Used to tone the skin, increase the firmness of the mucous membranes and reduce secretions.
Calmatives: Herbs in this category are used to promote relaxation and sleep.
Cathartics: Used as laxatives and to regulate bowel movements.
Demulcents: These are usually used to relieve sore throats, reduce inflammation of membranes, alleviate coughs and bronchial conditions.
Diaphoretics: Promote the expulsion of toxins by causing sweating.
Diuretics: Promote the expulsion of toxins through urination.
Expectorants: Relieve catarrh, loosen phlegm, clear airways.
Nervines: Reduce tension and promote calm.
Vulneraries: Applied directly to minor wounds.

HOMOEOPATHY is a healing system based on the principle that "like cures like". Two centuries ago a German doctor, Samuel Hahnemann, noted that the symptoms produced by giving quinine to a healthy person were similar to those of the malaria it was used to treat. This led to the discovery that small doses of lethal substances could be used to stimulate the body's self-healing responses. Modern homoeopathy has evolved from this discovery. The basic approach is to identify a substance which produces identical symptoms in a healthy person to those of the patient. Hahnemann believed that the smaller the dosage of the toxin given, the more effectively it was absorbed into the system. The standard homoeopathic method is to dilute the active substance with spirit - 1 part active substance to 99 parts spirit. This mixture is shaken thoroughly to ensure equal distribution of properties. From this preparation is taken just one drop, which is diluted with a further 99 drops of spirit, and again well shaken. This procedure is repeated a number of times. Sceptics insist that homoeopathic medicines can't possibly work, since there is no detectable trace of the original active substance in the final dilution. However, a number of independent surveys carried out into homoeopathy have found evidence of its effectiveness. The most recent of these, which examined the evidence of 89 trials over a 30 year period, was conducted by the US Government and the results - favourable to homoeopathy - were published in the medical journal The Lancet in September 1997.

NATUROPATHY is based on the principle that the body's own self-healing powers can only be properly effective upon the removal of negative, artificial and unnatural conditions - including bad eating habits, destructive thoughts, irregular sleep, lack of fresh air and sunlight, and so on. Treatment may include a variety of techniques, for example massage and herbal treatment, and individual exercise and diet programmes.

OSTEOPATHY involves the manipulation of the joints and muscles to relieve tension and congestion around nerve roots. Osteopathy is especially concerned with the condition of the spine (the technique's originator, Andrew T. Still, asserted that many seemingly unrelated conditions could be traced back to spinal damage). Diagnosis is made by "palpating" - that is, by touching areas of the body to determine what is termed the "quality of action" - that is, heat and speed of fluidity of blood beneath the area. This is a largely intuitive skill, similar to the ability to diagnose disease from the pulse in acupuncture. Osteopathy is not restricted to physical manipulation but incorporates several other forms of healing.

Other holistic techniques include:

REFLEXOLOGY - Therapy based on the concept that different areas or "zones" of the feet relate to various parts of the body, and that correctly applied pressure or massage of these zones can produce a remedial effect in the corresponding area of the body afflicted.

AROMATHERAPY - The use of essential oils in combination with therapeutic massage techniques.

BACH FLOWERS - A system of herbal medicine used mainly in the treatment of mood and emotional disorders.

BIOCHEMICS - Therapeutic system based on the premise that many forms of illness are linked to an excess or depletion of one or more of the body's organic salts.

IRIDOLOGY - Diagnostic technique based on the premise that the physical diseases are specifically reflected in the iris of the eye, and that patterns on the iris can be interpreted to diagnose disease.




Zak Martin Irish-born Zak Martin is one of the world's foremost psychics, a leading figure in the New Age movement and a best-selling author. He has been featured extensively on TV, radio and in the world press. He made headlines in the UK for his psychic detection work with Scotland Yard, his role as advisor to famous pop singers and TV personalities, his friendship with Princess Diana, and his founding of the Mayfair Clinic of Holistic Medicine and the London Psychic Centre at Baker Street. He is author of several books, including Quantum Perception, a scientific exploration of the mind and consciousness, and the worldwide best-selling guide to psychic growth, How to Develop your ESP (Harper-Collins). The Zak Martin Clinic in Beznar, south of Spain, offers a range of holistic and psychotheapeutic treatments. Visit Zak Martin's website at: http://www.zakmartin.com/





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2012年1月26日 星期四

Introduction to Autism - Factors Related to It


Introduction

Autism is a name given to a developmental disorder in children whereby their communication and interactions are impaired, and though many are able to stay in the mainstream of society, there are others who lead very restricted lives. Males are four times more likely to have autism than females, and out of every thousand children, at least 3-6 are likely to be autistic. Autism is limiting and restrictive, often preventing autistic children and their families from leading normal lives.

Autism can be by birth or manifest itself within the first two and a half years of a child's life. It is believed to be due to some prenatal abnormalities the causes of which have not yet been found. The physical appearance of the child is normal, but behavior is different and communication and interaction rather puzzling. Many are able to speak normally, and this makes recognition of other symptoms all the more difficult. The condition prevents most children from having normal educative learning though some can work towards joining mainstream educational activities.

Typically autistic children are self-absorbed, uncommunicative and cannot participate in creative activities. They are impaired in several areas of development. Autism is one of the 5 neurological disorders that fall under the category of Pervasive Developmental Disorders, and also the most common. There are no racial ethnic or economic boundaries for autism, the causes of which are yet unknown. It can afflict any child from any background, anywhere, and remains a lifelong problem.

Problems Created by Autistics

Autistic children do not misbehave intentionally as is often the case with normal children. Some external factors trigger specific actions.

- It is difficult for them to sit for long periods of time.

- They take everything literally;

- Matters that do not interest them will not hold their attention at all.

- They do not make eye contact and leave the other person wondering whether they have been heard and understood.

- They are aloof and unsocial.

- Many perform repetitive tasks, and strange actions like hand flapping, blinking, biting, head-banging, fiddling with things, and certain spontaneous movements.

- They sometimes lack the ability to understand emotions but can display anger and reveal their displeasure in violent ways. While many are able to express themselves with repetitive coaching, those who cannot talk resort to physical expression of their unhappiness.

- They are likely to develop some obsessive interests.

- Some are less sensitive to pain and can end up hurting themselves badly without realizing it.

- On the other hand they are hyper sensitive to touch, taste, hearing and smell.

These traits become difficult to handle especially for those who spend the maximum time with them. Parents find themselves constantly watching over them and trying to protect them outdoors. Caution cannot be forfeited at any cost with an autistic child. This can become a major encumbrance for the parent and attendant.

Causes of Autism

The exact cause or set of causes that lead to autism are unknown. It is a question that torments parents of autistic children who often tend to blame themselves for the neurological disorder that leads to this condition. Extensive research has led to multiple theories being presented about what leads to autism, though each has its set of critics trying to refute them.

- One set of scientists believes that certain vaccines given to the child especially, MMR (Mumps-Measles-Rubella) cause intestinal problems, which can lead to autism.

- Some believe the culprit to be thimersol contained in certain vaccines.

- The genetic cause of autism is widely accepted, as it is possible that autism has some genetic root, running in some families more than others. However, autism is not caused by a single gene, but is rather a consequence of several genetic differences as well as some form of environmental "insult".

- Some researchers are exploring the differences in a typical brain and autistic brain and are convinced that the autistic brain is wired in a different manner, besides being larger in size.

Research is continuing and it is clear that autism cannot be attributed to a single cause, but is perhaps the outcome of a combination of unfavorable factors like food allergies, environmental toxins leading to adverse reactions in the child's body, and immune deficiencies.

How To Identify Autism

Autistic children appear normal in appearance and the first signs can manifest themselves around twelve months, but they become very conspicuous by the time the child is three years old. Many seem to have impaired speech, never look in the eye, exhibit strange behavior and movements, not wish to play with others, seem engrossed in one particular thing or activity. It is not unusual for parents to shake off these early signs as those of an introvert or late learner. But pointers to an autistic condition include:

- The child does not point to things and objects at twelve months

- He child does not pick up even one word by 18 months

- He cannot make two word sentences at age two

- He does not respond to his own name

- He stays away from people and peers

- He does not make eye contact

- He may not laugh and smile and may not seem to hear

- He constantly flaps arms, bites, bangs his head

- He is unable to shift focus from one object to another

Parents are the first to notice some or most of these signs and must take immediate advice to be able to help the child and in case remedial measures can be taken in borderline cases, the sooner the better.

Educating an Autistic Child

The toughest part for parents is coming to terms with the autistic condition of their child. Once they are able to accept it, they become anxious to educate the child to make him acceptable in the mainstream of society. This is the toughest part as their symptoms manifest themselves all the time.

- They are different from other students, as they cannot relate to people and emotions, have some difficulty in comprehending what hey are being told.

- They are unable to identify differences in tone and speech, gauge facial expressions, or relate to reactions of peers.

- It becomes important for the teacher of autistic children to know about their condition.

- If the child is in a special school with others like himself, he will benefit from specially created learning modules, which include visual schedules that autistic children find easier to follow.

- Working in pairs is immensely beneficial as well.

- In case the child studies in a regular school, his teacher needs to know about his condition so that she can make the extra effort that may be required to explain certain things to him.

- In many schools an additional aide is provided to the teacher to help such children.

- Autistic children resent being forced to do certain things, and would rather make choices as it gives them a sense of control.

- It is better to encourage interests that they seem to prefer, for instance, many have a flair for cooking. This can become a vocation in later years.

Treatment for Autism

Treating autism is not easy as no prescribed, standardized line of treatment has yet been found, despite millions of dollars being spent on research in this field. The only generalization that can be made is linked to helpful therapies like:

- Applied Behavior Analysis

- Occupational Therapy

- Physical Therapy

- Speech Language Therapy

However, before the child can be started on any of these, the following steps need to be followed:

- An early diagnosis of autism an immediate intervention and treatment is imperative for the child. Parents must not ignore unusual behavioral traits that the child may exhibit in the second year of his life.

- The first step is to find good physicians and specialists who can guide parents about what is best for the child.

- Most treatment has to be behavioral and parents have to ensure that the child is not pressurized.

- This can be done by giving him clear instructions that are easy for him to follow.

- He must be prompted encouragingly to perform certain tasks, and praise and applause for actions well done.

- Parents must make a distinction between good and bad and gradually increase the complexity of instructions to encourage him to do better. Parents need instruction in behavioral techniques to accomplish this.

- Self help techniques have to be taught to the children so that they can eventually become independent.

- However, there are various types of autism, and each child has specific needs. His treatment also has to be custom made for his requirements.

Treatment with medication is only for symptoms like seizures, extreme mood swings; sleep difficulty, tantrums or injurious behavior patterns. One set of doctors fell that additional diet supplements like minerals and vitamins may be helpful, and also secretin infusion, but none of these treat the underlying condition.

At present, Risperidone is the only drug that has been approved for treating children in the 5-16 age group for aggression and irritability due to autism. Finally, the present treatment prescribed by medical specialists includes a gluten-free and casein-free diet. Gluten is contained in wheat, barley and rye, and casein in milk and dairy products.

Improving Autism Communication

Communication and social interaction are the biggest problems associated with autism. The autistic child struggles in the fields of language and being able to express him. Communication is crucial as it helps the child understand people around him, comprehend environment cues, follow directions and instructions, perform organizational tasks and also express himself. Communication is much more complicated than mere speech, requiring multiple skills like attention, absorbing information, interpreting that information and finally formulating an appropriate response.

A lot of research is being done in this field, and some drugs have been developed that improve communication behavior and increasing attention spans. Mineral and vitamin supplements, psychotherapy and medication related to it have all been tried, but there is no documented evidence of significant improvements.

Autistic children understand better when information is provided to them verbally as well as visually. Studies conducted on children who were instructed verbally and with sign language, revealed that they responded with greater vocalization, mastered signs and used them appropriately, and were able to communicate better with their peers. Visual tools include body movements, use of pictures, objects and environment cues. Step-by-step instructions are also important. Autistic children relate best to models, objects, signs and boards explaining the verbal communication.

While no standardized treatment has yet been developed to improve communication abilities of autistic children, some amount of success has been achieved by studying individual requirements. Treatments first necessitate an in-depth analysis of needs and then seeking therapy from speech-language pathologists, from occupational and physical therapists to modify unacceptable social behavior.

Another research reveals that participation of the father in teaching the child showed a marked improvement in the child's ability to communicate. This was especially true in verbal communications with the child's usage of vocabulary revealing a 50% increase.

Structured behavior modification programs like Applied Behavior Analysis are beneficial for some, while others benefit from informal coaching in a familiar home environment. Music therapy and sensory integration therapy attempt to enhance the child's ability to respond to information using his sense organs. Social stories narrated to children time and again have also helped many improve their social skills.

Yet another specialist has found that early intervention with peer directed interaction helps autistic children communicate better. Less adult directed communication and greater participation from trained peers in an informal, natural setting helped in maximizing the results of communication improvement.

The Pivotal Response Treatment (PRT) has been rated as one of the best innovative treatments for handling communication issues of autistic children. Based on 20 years of research by Robert and Lynn Koegel, this has helped advance children's communication abilities, foster friendships and social interactions and improves school performance besides controlling disruptive behavior. PRT works with every child's natural motivation promotes functional learning and helps him develop skills that can be used in the world outside. Rote learning is discouraged and the child's cognitive abilities are enhanced. Prompting him to respond gives him the impetus to do so.

Treatments have to be personalized but starting sooner will yield far better results than delays in taking action by the parents.

How to get Autistic Children accepted by other Children

Autistic children do have communication and behavioral issues which are often unacceptable to others. They are therefore the target of criticism, made fun of, teased, ignored and neglected. But all autistic children are not retarded and with help and support can become part of mainstream society. The role of the parent and the teacher becomes important in gaining social acceptance for their child. They need support not pity, sympathy and a bit of care. It is important for the school to reinforce its commitment to these children and explaining to others how they can reach out to these special children. They need to be told that autism does not explain the whole character of the child-it is only one aspect and the child in question is blessed with other far more acceptable traits. He can think too, get hurt and upset and he struggles with things he cannot do. Acute hearing, sight and smell compensate for his language limitations. Children can be made to see the good in the child, what he can do and with that focus, help him. Often if one child comes forward to help the special child, others follow suit and the result is that he gains friends from whom he is able to learn much more than parental training.

How do I help in Emotional Circumstances

Children with autism are often highly emotional, getting hurt and upset about small things. Unfortunately, it takes them longer to overcome them and it is challenging for parents to help him cope. In an emotional state, the child first needs to be calmed, and this can be accomplished by helping him take a few deep breaths. This must be practiced with him before and becomes useful during stressful times. It is best to remove him from the scene where he has got upset and talking gently in a manner that he comprehends, is helpful. The child needs encouragement, reinforcement of affection and loving reassurance. If the child can talk, hearing him out also helps. Many of them are overly sensitive to others' emotions, seeing another child cry, makes them cry as well. They need to be taught that another person's feelings must not be mixed up with their own.

A few steps that can help the child include, first understanding his emotional needs, speaking in a language that he understands, he must also get the facts correct, and not have any false notions. It is important to look for warning signs that reveal an emotionally disturbed state like facial expression, nervous tics, speech variations, sweating, avoidance and irritability. Social stories narrated to children may help them feel they are not alone in feeling in a particular manner, and others are like them too. The bottom line is keeping the child calm and secure.

The Child's Future

A child being diagnosed as autistic is one of the worst nightmares for any parent. The first thoughts after the why's and how's is the anxiety about his future. His future is largely determined by the type of autism he has, and his intelligence level, which may assist him to practice some vocation and even be gainfully occupied. Many are able to lead near normal lives and become responsible, independent individuals. Others with more serious problems may never be able to lead a normal life and be independent. In such cases the future of the child is largely determined by the parents, how they plan for times ahead. They need to make the child functional and ensure that adequate resources are put aside to sustain him. Researchers believe that parents need to be responsible for providing them with a social world in which they can build meaningful relationships. Those alone can sustain them, despite the fact that the child may never go to work, earn, and do other adult things. Special education can help him do better than lack of any education. It may suffice to have him occupied and happy rather than stressed and agitated, provided for and having someone.




With over 4 years in the field of content writing, I have written numerous articles covering various niches. Presently I am maintaining 2 blogs at COFFEE TABLE TALKS and WEIGHT LOSS TIPS.





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2011年12月28日 星期三

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





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