Testing

Hi!

I'm Lily! I've got a 10-year-old son with autism. He was dx'd officially right after he turned 4, and it's been an interesting ride! (Up, down, up, down, sideways...)

I don't know what the first post's suggestions were, so I hope I'm not repeating anything, but did you visit a developmental pediatrician or a pediatric neurologist? We saw a slew of doctors -- regular ped, ped neuro, and a clinical psychologist. There was a lot of questionnaires involved and a lot of observation, including medical testing to rule out things that could mimic autism/asperger's. Have you had any of that done?

If you are unsure or worried, I second the other poster's suggestion that you see a new doctor. Get another opinion. Or do you live in a state that has a regional center program, or other similar program (separate from the school) available? California has regional centers where they do all the testing for free, and then provide services if they find your child has autism. (Reportedly, CA doesn't cover Asperger's, but I don't know if that's still the case and if other states are similar.) Either way, it's very subjective.

Go with your gut! You know your child the best. Anxiety can cause a lot of problems, but don't ever settle if you're worried.

Take care!

Hi, Debi -- I'm so glad you came back and updated! (And I'm sorry for the delay in response, every year I think Halloween becomes more and more involved and exhausting...or maybe I'm just getting older and taking longer to recuperate?)

That's excellent news that the doctor's continuing to do more testing, involving the teachers especially (since he's there a good portion of the day, that'll definitely help the process of keeping them on your team) and you must be excited about the social skills group opportunity! We are still without an official social skills group and have had to make one on our own..not so easy.

Let us know how it goes in December at your next appointment, but post sooner if you can!

Lily