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by Thaashida L. Hutton, M.S., CCC-SLP
If you suspect your child is autistic (a developmental disability characterized by differences with social skills, communication, and behavior), you can find information
from various resources and professionals. Following are tips to keep in mind when going through the process of a possible autism diagnosis.
Where Do I Start?
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Trust yourself. Know that as a parent you are concerned because
you want to do what is best for your child.
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Talk to a professional. You may want to begin with the child’s primary
healthcare provider (family doctor or pediatrician).
He or she may conduct a developmental screening
and may refer you to a specialist for an evaluation.
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Write everything down, including questions, concerns, etc.
Write everything down, including questions, concerns, etc. You want to have information,
such as examples of behavior or lack of communication, to support your concerns when talking
with a professional (University of Pennsylvania, n.d., ¶ 5).
- Ask lots of questions. It’s okay to ask questions. There is a lot
of information on autism, and you are not expected to know it all. If a doctor tells you not
to worry, ask if and when you should start to worry and why (UPenn, n.d., ¶ 5).
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Start early. Don’t wait until it is too late to get help. If your child is autistic,
you want to start intervention services as soon as possible. Early intervention
services can help enhance a child’s development (UPenn, n.d., ¶ 6).
What if I Don't Know Exactly What to Look For?
Remember that every child develops emotional, cognitive (thinking), and physical skills at different rates. However, here are some signs to look for if you think that your child may be autistic (UPenn, n.d., ¶ 4):
- No or few expressions of emotion by six months (i.e. not smiling when smiled at)
- No/minimal eye contact
- Prefers routines; apprehensive to change
- Dislike of being touched
- Strong attachment to specific objects
- Loss of speech or babbling at any age
Who Can Diagnose Autism?
Your child’s doctor will do a developmental screening, and then may refer you to a (multidisciplinary) team for evaluations. Following is a list of professionals who can give the actual diagnosis of autism (UPenn, n.d., ¶ 7):
- Child psychiatrist – doctor who specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of mental and emotional disorders in children
- Child psychologist – professional who assesses mental health problems and provides psychological care and intervention for children
- Developmental pediatrician – doctor who assesses suspected developmental delays in language, cognitive, and motor areas
- Pediatric Neurologist – doctor who diagnoses and treats disorders related to seizures, muscular weakness, head injury, and development
Other professionals who may help assess a child’s skills and abilities and share findings with the team are:
- Speech-Language Pathologist – assesses and treats verbal and nonverbal communication and pragmatics (social skills
- focuses on sensory issues, fine motor skills, play, and social and personal skills required for independent living
- Physical Therapist – ocuses on gross motor skills
My Child Has Autism. Now What?
Remember to enjoy every day with your child. It’s easy to get caught up in a diagnosis and forget about the important things in life. Every child is unique and has special gifts. Most importantly, know that you are not alone. Take advantage of resources and seek out professionals who can guide you.
Where Can I Find Additional Information?
Autistic Self Advocacy Network
P.O. Box 66122
Washington, D.C. 20035
info@autisticadvocacy.org
http://www.autisticadvocacy.orgAutism Network International (ANI)
Autism Speaks
Family Services
familyservices@autismspeaks.org
888-AUTISM2 (288-4762)
Parents of Autistic Children (POAC)
732-785-1099
http://www.poac.net/
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