Archive of the Special Education Message Board Folder:
Autism/PDD
January 8, 1996 - October 4, 1996
FILE NAME: autpdd02.txt
432 message - 95 Pages
SUBJECT: Autistic composer??
Date: 96-01-08 17:07:56 edt FROM: LadyDruid
Can somebody help me find information on these records? I heard a news blurb about a Japanese man who was autistic and had become a very good composer. He's supposed to have two records out, one called "Winter" and another called "Salzburg". I'm not sure how his name should be spelled, but it sounds like Hakari O-way, or something like that. Supposedly his music is based on bird songs. I've already searched record store indexes, but without the correct name, it's difficult to find anything.
Thanks for your help. :)
SUBJECT: News Coverage of Composer
Date: 96-01-08 18:14:20 edt FROM: Way7SAC10
Either ABC or NBC current affairs programing recently produced a segment about this man. Anyone see it? I think it was NBC, not sure though.
SUBJECT:
info on PDD
Date: 96-01-08 20:44:50 edt FROM: Roadeee
looking for info on mild PDD and types of regular classroom modifications and
strategies for working with these children
SUBJECT: Autism:PDD
Date: 96-01-08 21:16:29 edt FROM: Way7SAC10
A wonderful book exists RE:Autism-PDD called, ironically, Autism-PDD Creative
Ideas During theSchool Years by J. Adams and available from The Geneva
Centre, Toronto, Ontario Canada dial 1-416-555-1212 and ask for the phone
number for Geneva Centre. They also have a publication/videos list
SUBJECT:
auditory training
Date: 96-01-09 14:13:09 edt FROM: Sonsrus
I'm considering auditory training for my 4 year old in Bklyn, and am looking
for a good person to go to...any recommendations?...Sonsrus
SUBJECT: Autism/PDD
friends
Date: 96-01-09 22:00:55 edt FROM: SCohen
We are looking for people to meet who have either a child (children) who are
PDD or have autism. We have a girl who is PDD.
Steve Cohen
Omaha Ne
SUBJECT: immune system/Dr. Goldberg
Date: 96-01-10 21:51:17 edt FROM: Sonsrus
Has anyone been treated by this doctor from CA , who focuses on the immune system"s defects to treat autism? I hear he was published in the Advocate.
Sonsrus
SUBJECT: Re:COMMUNICATION
Date: 96-01-11 00:17:02 edt FROM: KARHAM
HAS ANYONE READ MY MESSAGE ABOUT COMMUNICATION?? PLEASE RESPOND AND TELL ME HOW YOUR CHILD COMMUNICATES IF THEY HAVE SOME DIFFICULTIES WITH
LANGUAGE.
SUBJECT: Re:Help!
Date: 96-01-12 19:37:56 edt FROM: TOMPAT13
Contact TEACCH (Training and Education for Autistic And Communication
Handicapped Children) in Chapel Hill, NC. Dr. Gary Mesibov, Administratin &
Research, Division TEACCH, CB#7180, Medical Wing E, UNC-CH, Chapel Hill, NC
27599-7180. Ph.: 919-966-2174 FAX: 919-966-4127
SUBJECT: Re:Help!
Date: 96-01-12 19:41:30 edt FROM: TOMPAT13
To: Frogguy7
FROM: tompat13
Contact Dr. Gary Mesibov, A&R, Division TEACCH (Training and Education for Autistic & Communication Handicapped Children), CB#7180, Medical Wing E, UNC-CH, Chapel Hill, NC 27599-7180. Phone: 919-966-2174. FAX:
919-966-4127
SUBJECT: Re:Need Information
Date: 96-01-12 20:01:27 edt FROM: TOMPAT13
to: Packod
FROM: tompat13
Division TEACCH, CB# 7180, Medical School Wing E, UNC-CH, Chapel Hill, NC 27599-7180 and the Autism Society of NC, 3300 Woman's Club Drive, Raleigh, NC 27612 rin vocational programs (Supported Employment) for individuals with autism. Also contact Pat Keul, SET, Inc., P. O. Box 12428, Charlotte, NC 28220.
SUBJECT: Re:re:Autism
Date: 96-01-12 20:11:04 edt FROM: TOMPAT13
TO: ZEAKID
FROM: tompat13
DATE: 1-12-96
Contact Division TEACCH, Chapel Hill, NC, UNC Medical School Wing E. PHONE:
919-966-2174. FAX: 919-966-4127.
SUBJECT: Re:Programs for Autistic
Date: 96-01-13 12:29:56 edt FROM: MissChooch
To: BADEAR
I have an autistic son who is currently in 8th grade. The Burnsville, MN (School District 191) is very strong on inclusion. We have had a lot of success with the school district and its administration.
FYI - Burnsville is a suburb of Minneapolis, population about 40,000. One high school (grades 10-12) - another underway; two junior high schools (grades 7-9) - another opening next fall.
Progress and change are not strangers to this district.
Good luck in your search.
Special Ed Director is Dr. Gary Nelson.
SUBJECT: Re:Tactile defensiveness
Date: 96-01-13 15:21:48 edt FROM: ESSIG AE
Are you sure the child has tactile defensiveness to the crayon or pencil??
Or is it the smell of them? Crayons and pencils have very strong odors. Will the child hold a marker? or any other writing tool? I have had students who will not hold crayons or pencils, but will use markers. Also, have you tried a Squiggle Pen? It has worked wonders with my students!
SUBJECT:
Moved from another folder
Date: 96-01-14 15:24:33 edt FROM: SusanS29
SUBJECT: Autism
Date: 96-01-14 09:48:10 EST
FROM: B315Raid
Posted on: America Online
I have a 3rd grade boy classified as Eh. I think he's mildly autistic. He does a lot of self-stimulating activities i.e. flicking his fingers, rocking, noises, ect. He can read well and spells great but there's no comprehension. I may be wrong but I think that's part of his problem. School personel have been little help...I am a new person..how could I know anything: kind of attitude. I'm looking for signs or checklists as well as outcomes for him...is it possible to increase comprehension? Thanks for the help!!!!!!!
SUBJECT: Autism
Date: 96-01-14 09:48:10 EST
FROM:
SUBJECT: Proforma IEP goals for PDD
Date: 96-01-14 11:43:57 EST
FROM: Gregory01
Posted on: America Online
Please help!
My beautiful, wonderful and funny 5 year old son is horribly misplaced in a public school special education class. He is the only autistic child in his classroom and the well meaning but poorly equipped teachers do not know what do with/for him.
Through contact with local parent's groups I have become aware of a private program specially designed for autistic/PDD children; albeit very expensive. The good news is that in certain cases the public school system will fund a child's participation in the school. The bad news is that the situation practically requires quasi-legal action for a favorable conclusion.
I am currently compiling information in preparation for "discussions" with the public school system regarding my son's placement. I desparately need help obtaining sample IEP goals for my son. If anyone has suggestions or sample goals they could share, please respond here; or better yet, e-mail me directly.
Any help would be greatly appreciated.
Thanks,
Gregory01
Posted on: America Online
I have a 3rd grade boy classified as Eh. I think he's mildly autistic. He does a lot of self-stimulating activities i.e. flicking his fingers, rocking, noises, ect. He can read well and spells great but there's no comprehension. I may be wrong but I think that's part of his problem. School personel have been little help...I am a new person..how could I know anything: kind of attitude. I'm looking for signs or checklists as well as outcomes for him...is it possible to increase comprehension? Thanks for the help!!!!!!!
SUBJECT: Proforma IEP goals for PDD
Date: 96-01-14 11:43:57 EST
FROM: Gregory01
Posted on: America Online
Please help!
My beautiful, wonderful and funny 5 year old son is horribly misplaced in a public school special education class. He is the only autistic child in his classroom and the well meaning but poorly equipped teachers do not know what do with/for him.
Through contact with local parent's groups I have become aware of a private program specially designed for autistic/PDD children; albeit very expensive. The good news is that in certain cases the public school system will fund a child's participation in the school. The bad news is that the situation practically requires quasi-legal action for a favorable conclusion.
I am currently compiling information in preparation for "discussions" with the public school system regarding my son's placement. I desparately need help obtaining sample IEP goals for my son. If anyone has suggestions or sample goals they could share, please respond here; or better yet, e-mail me directly.
Any help would be greatly appreciated.
Thanks,
Gregory01
SUBJECT: ISO Sample IEP Goals for PDD
Date: 96-01-15 01:18:19 edt FROM: Gregory01
Please help!
My beautiful, wonderful and funny 5 year old son is horribly misplaced in a public school special education class. He is the only autistic child in his classroom and the well meaning but poorly equipped teachers do not know what do with/for him.
Through contact with local parent's groups I have become aware of a private program specially designed for autistic/PDD children; albeit very expensive. The good news is that in certain cases the public school system will fund a child's participation in the school. The bad news is that the situation practically requires quasi-legal action for a favorable conclusion.
I am currently compiling information in preparation for "discussions" with the public school system regarding my son's placement. I desparately need help obtaining sample IEP goals for my son. If anyone has sample goals or other suggestions they could share, please respond here; or better yet, e-mail me directly.
Any help would be greatly appreciated.
Thanks,
Gregory01
SUBJECT: Tiolet Training - Help
Date: 96-01-16 20:53:12 edt FROM: B754552
I have 4 year old twins diagnosed with autism who do not want to tiolet train. They sit very nicely on the potty 5 times a day, very rarely go (they are rewarded with sweet treats when they do) . This stalemate has been going on for 6 months. They are dry for several hours at a time. Our treatment team would love to hear any suggestions, ideas etc. Please leave a message on E-mail.
Thanks alot.
Lisa
SUBJECT: Re:Tiolet Training - Help
Date: 96-01-17 01:39:25 edt FROM: Supermom28
Lisa,
My little angel was 4 and a half before he was potty trained. Thought I was going to lose my mind. It seemed the harder we tried, the less likely he was willing to "go".
If they are in a pre-school setting, try talking with their teacher(s) to see if their classmates are also in the middle of training or if he/she has any advice. Also, you might want to let them watch your husband use the bathroom or you for that fact. I know it seems a little strange, but it worked for my son, I think he had the idea that he just had to sit there.
If neither one of these ideas works, just leave em be for awhile, some children catch on later than others, if you push too hard you are only gonna drive them and you nuts.
Good luck.
Sheri
SUBJECT: Let 'Em Watch, He says.
Date: 96-01-17 19:09:13 edt FROM: Way7SAC10
I say let 'em watch. nothign like a graphic display to get your point across. That speakers & teachers use video, slides, overheads live demonstrations, role-playing etc., to get their point across should tell us something. Nothing like a personal visit I always say. When our son knew what it was that we wanted him to do (through graphic example), he did it. We couldn't assume he knew what the toilet was for.
Good Luck!
SUBJECT: Re:BEHAVIORAL PROBLEMS
Date: 96-01-18 11:33:21 edt FROM: Passarette
Dear Mom,
I am the parent of a 6 yr old boy with autism in the NYC area also. There is an agency I'd recommend that you contact - although they may have a waiting list, they may be able to help you in some way. The name of the agency is Queens Services for Autistic Citizens, their telephone number is (718) 805-1515. Their after-school and residential habilitation program using the Applied behavioral approach - which has proven to be quite effective for many children with autism. My son is receiving this therapy after-school, which I am funding myself right now, as there has been no new funding for the Medicaid Waiver program. During the day he attends a special ed program in Queens for autistic children, which uses more of an eclectic approach - although he seems to be doing ok there, it is not the best place in the world for him to be. I do not have the phone numbers for all of the Applied behavioral schools at my fingertips right now, but I can give you some of the names: New York Child Learning Institute, Whitestone; Eden II, Staten Island; Genesis School, Plainview, LI. Please be aware that all of these schools have waiting lists - be sure to apply now if you are interested. If there's anything else I can help you with, please send message to Passarette@AOL.COM.
Good luck!
Jean
SUBJECT: Re:ISO Sample IEP Goals for
Date: 96-01-18 23:27:27 edt FROM: Whflr
There is a center in Southborough, Mass. called the New England Center for Autism. I work there. It is for severe cases but you may be able to write to them and get information regarding IEP goals. Of course it depends on how severe your child is as to the types of goals that can be set. Is s/he verbal, have Mental Retardation of any sort, etc. I have heard of autistic kids who have been well remediated in their social behaviors and have gone on to live wonderful lives. In general, maintaining eye contact, appropriate social responses to greetings, etc., and in seat behavior are good beginning goals. Once these are achieved, you can move onto more academic activities. Good luck!!
SUBJECT: Re:Tiolet Training - Help
Date: 96-01-19 12:51:42 edt FROM: KMunster
Hi,
I have a 5 yr old autistic son who seemed to be fighting us every step of the way regarding toilet training. However after 7 months of an unrelenting and structured program he is selfinitiating for all of his toileting needs. I developed a picture board showing the steps that we reviewed every time we were in the bathroom. He started verbalizing and even making a game of the steps and finally he started on his own.. It involved a time schedule, over correction for mistakes and lots of praise and rewards for successes. It was hard but worked. His teacher started it in class and we followed the program at home. If you want to learn more e-mail me at KMunster.
Good luck...Kai
SUBJECT: Re:ISO Sample IEP Goals for
Date: 96-01-19 22:38:03 edt FROM: FRandJGold
Hi! I have taught Autistic 3, 4, and 5 year olds in a self contained setting for the past 8 years. What specific type of IEP goals are you looking for? Cognitive, social, behavioral...? Would be happy to help but need to know more about ability level and what type of objectives..
SUBJECT: Re:Tiolet
Training - Help
Date: 96-01-20 15:42:47 edt FROM: HLC 594
Hi!
I am commonly referred to as the "Latrine Queen" for my efforts in toilet trng. children with multiple handicaps.
I have done the tried and true as well as some not so common things.
For some children we placed metal pie tins in the commode so they heard the results of their urination (kind of a multisensory thing). We have also put crystals in the toilet that turned the water colors so the child SAW the results. There are switches that will activated a toy, fan, music... We have floated ping pong balls in the commode so the little boys have something to aim at. They make a commercial product called Tinkle Targets that work on the same idea.
Obviously you can increase liquids so hopefully the kids will have to go more. Pair them will salty foods and others that increase the need to go.
Another idea we've had success with is role playing the steps with a doll that wets and letting the child watch the parents, siblings... go through the steps. Some parents have done videos of the child, parent, and/or sibling going through the steps.
In my classroom I have posted the steps and included written and pictured directions. The adults follow the script (verbally) and by referring the child back to it.
Let me know if any of this sounds possible.
-Holly (HLC 594)
SUBJECT: Re:Tiolet Training - Help
Date: 96-01-20 15:45:30 edt FROM: HLC 594
Hi!
I would love more information and copy of your picture board, if possible. I work with young children with multiple handicaps. I can always use more ideas re: toilet trng.
-Holly (HLC 594)
SUBJECT: Anxiety/Relaxation
Date: 96-01-20 15:48:31 edt FROM: HLC 594
Hi!
Anybody have any tips for helping a young man relax. He is 11 and moderately mentally handicapped. All who know him believe he is Autistic but he is not DX.
He is very passive and withdrawn at school and the anxiety manifests itself through silent tears, vomitting, dysentery...
I am looking for some videos that teach young children yoga/meditation. This child taught himself to read using videos and loves this medium.
All ideas greatly appreciated.
-Holl (HLC 594)
SUBJECT: repetitive behaviors
Date: 96-01-21 13:04:38 edt FROM: SPED4ALL
I have a 17 yr. old student w/autism. In the last 4-5 months his repetitive behs. have begun to interfer w/his indep. skills. EVERY task is done 3-5 times. He WILL repeat the task, regardless of our efforts to stop them. This is a prob. at home too. i.e. using a bar of soap in 2 days because he lathers & relathers. It isn't an avoidance tech.-it is constant, not selective. Any & all advice is welcomed. I've worked w/other students who were autistic, so I'm familiar w/some of the more common tech.
THANKS!!!
SUBJECT: autism-body temperature
Date: 96-01-21 22:06:12 edt FROM: T1WMsr
Has anyone noticed if autistic children have low body temperatures? I had a student whose temp. stayed around 97 even when he was obviously ill. I saw a list of symptoms of hypothermia and was interested to note the similiarities between those and the characteristics of autism. I've on had 2 students with autism so I'm not an expert. Just curious if anyone else has noticed this. Both of my students have a constant runny nose, E-mail T1WMsr.
SUBJECT: HIGH FUNCTIONING AUTISTIC
Date: 96-01-21 23:47:19 edt FROM: Ms hoov105
I just had an autistic student with a high I.Q. moved into my resource room for mathematics. Any information on how to help her learn would be appriciated. Please e-mail me at mshoov105@aol.com Thanks!
SUBJECT: New
Behavior?
Date: 96-01-23 00:03:20 edt FROM: Cbug418
My 10 yr. old son who is mainstreamed in the 4th gr.all day with individual aid is now having temper tantrums due to frustration with comprehension of reading and math word problems. He is labled hyperlexic w/autistic-like. He does not have behavior problems until now. Any suggestions or technics as to help him vent this frustration?
SUBJECT: Re:autism-body temperature
Date: 96-01-23 13:42:58 edt FROM: JSchutzer
This may well just be their own body temperature. My husband's temp is
always around 97, mine is closer to 99, my kids are 98.6 (right on the
money). But the constant runny nose is probably a sign of allergies. Many
autistic children have allergies and they manifest themselves in various ways
-- from the classic runny nose and watery eyes to behavioral problems. It might be worth the parents looking into it. They may see more changes with diet than just a dry nose.
Jennifer
SUBJECT: Re:BEHAVIORAL PROBLEMS
Date: 96-01-23 22:57:50 edt FROM: RKSD WITZ
There are many schools in NYC which use a variety of approaches to modify behaviors including the principles in ABA. These schools are part of District 75 . The main phone # is 212-779-7200. Someone can put you in touch with a school in a boro who can be of assistance.
Good luck........
SUBJECT: Re:Writing
Date: 96-01-24 02:25:52 edt FROM: DNelson949
We have a 13 year old son who is high functioning PDD or autistic. As may be expected, he has a difficult time writing (or perhaps I should say "composing"), especially if he is asked to paraphrase what another author has written, i.e. he has a difficult time answering specific questions out of his history text without just quoting (some might call what he does plagarizing) everything in detail. His reading skills are at or close to grade level. His writing skills are much better when he is writing about something he is interested in, but I would like to hear from other people who have dealt with the problem I just described. I have tried teaching him how to use the thesaurus in our word processing program, but, am otherwise stumped. He gets "stuck" by reading how it is phrased the first time and has extreme difficulty paraphrasing or summarizing. Any ideas? I'm new to AOL. You can respond to me by e-mail, or here, whichever works best for you. I feel real hope after finding such a wonderful resource and so many thoughtful people willing to share their time and ideas. Thanks.
Donna
SUBJECT: Re:Tiolet Training - Help
Date: 96-01-24 11:02:47 edt FROM: KMunster
I would be glad to copy the picture board that we used and "snail-mail" it to
you. Several other parents have used it with good success. Let me know
where to send it and it will be done. My e-mail is KMunster@aol.com Kai
Munster
SUBJECT: Re:Discreet Trial
Date: 96-01-24 22:50:51 edt FROM: DInch14453
Hi. I am a therapist from New York working on this program with a three year old autistic boy. I feel that this program is great. The child has progressed significantly since he started this program 7 months ago. He is now able to play with toys, understand simple commands like "come here" Please continue to get the word out about this program. Many autistic childrens' education is at stake.
SUBJECT: Re:AIT
Date: 96-01-25 13:31:29 edt FROM: DNelson949
I am attempting to get our school district in Texas to pay for AIT under the
theory that only with AIT will my child, who is high functioning PDD or
autistic, be able to be integrated into a regular classroom. He is highly
distracted by noise and anxiety problems, both of which I believe would be
substantially improved with AIT. Has anyone other there been successful in
getting a school district to provide this service? If so, please E-Mail or
sent a message to this board. Thanks. Donna
SUBJECT: Re:AIT
Date: 96-01-25 21:51:20 edt FROM: MKGY
What is AIT?
SUBJECT: Re:AIT
Date: 96-01-26 01:08:25 edt FROM: GDM20
Would not this be Auditory Integration Therapy?
SUBJECT: Re:AIT
Date: 96-01-26 12:37:50 edt FROM: DNelson949
Sorry about that. Yes, AIT, is Auditory Integration Training (or sometimes I've heard it referred to as Therapy), and it's an audiological training that allegedly fully or partially remedies the hypersensitive hearing of persons with autism, PDD, etc. Many of the symptoms of PDD, such as high anxiety, hyperactivity, lack of ability to socialize are improved once the hypersensitivity is reduced or eliminated.
SUBJECT: Re:AIT
Date: 96-01-26 13:06:06 edt FROM: MKGY
We have a 10 year old son with Asperger's...he is so sensitive to multiple noises. We tried a noisy resturant the other evening..it was just to much for him. How do we go about finding our about this? We live in Lawrence Kansas.
SUBJECT: Re:Discreet Trial
Date: 96-01-26 17:33:19 edt FROM: MEEPK
I would like to get some info on DTT and it's validity when generalizing
skills in a "general" environment. Is this isolated skill development, where
is it's application to a more "normalized" environment. How does it apply to
older adolescents who in the community working etc. Can someone make some
sense of this for me? Thanks! You can write me at MEEPK@aol.comm
SUBJECT: tutor
needed
Date: 96-01-27 00:08:36 edt FROM: Aseddon
We need a tutor for our autistic six yr.old boy in Tampa. We've had a number of tutors in the past - some good. I'd like someone with some Lovaas training. We haven't had that much luck with strict Lovaas, but have found that the attention getting techniques and discreet trials are useful. Looking at Tue, and Thur. afternoons at his day care. Would be willing to work with the right speech or psych grad student who wanted some experience. He's a wonderful child - cute, outgoing and funny. E-mail me at Aseddon@aol.com. Thanks.
SUBJECT: Re:Tiolet Training - Help
Date: 96-01-27 18:41:02 edt FROM: HLC 594
Hi!
You can mail the board to:
Holly L. Caulfield
c/o Lake Como Elementary School
901 Bumby Ave.
Orlando, FL 32806
Thanks so very much.
-Holly
SUBJECT: AIT Information
Date: 96-01-27 19:15:34 edt FROM: Way7SAC10
Call 1-800-3-AUTISM and ask for information about AIT. Also ask for the phone number of your nearest Autism Society of America chapter. They could be of assistance in locating an AIT practitioner in your area. January is National Autism Awareness Month.
SUBJECT: Re:Tiolet Training - Help
Date: 96-02-02 13:37:52 edt FROM: Dan and Z
I have been teaching severely delayed autistic children for 4 years. some of my kids were toilet trained very young. Some would not be trained until 7 or 8 years old. The one who has taken the longest to be trained is the child who now asks to uses the bathroom and does everything including wahing hands and returning to the classroom independently. just keep trying sood luck!!
SUBJECT: Re:repetitive behaviors
Date: 96-02-02 18:30:37 edt FROM: Mair1 otr
For the 17 year old boy who is repeating each activity 2-3 times and interfering with his daily functioning.
It sounds like this is a new behavior for this young man, which may be a signal that something new is going on with him-change in his physical environment, his psycho-social environment, etc. These behaviors, though seen commonly in children with autism are often successfully treated with medications for obsessive - compulsive disorder. Especially since these behaviors are interfering with his daily functioning I would strongly recommend the parents consulting with a child psychiatrist who can start this boy on a trial of medication to help reduce these compulsions. They may also allow the behavior modification techniques you are using to be successful. These medications are not for a lifetime and can usually be decreased after elimination of the behaviors. I hope this lead helps you and the young man. Mair.
SUBJECT: PERVASIVE DISABILITY DISORDE
Date: 96-02-02 22:43:51 edt FROM: SLewine911
MY 2 YEAR OLD HAS BEEN RECENTLY DIAGNOSED. HIS COGNITIVE FUNCTION IS HIGH.
I WONDER WITH EARLY INTERVENTION WHAT THE PROGNOSIS IS. I ALSO WONDER IF ANY
RESEARCH WITH RESPECT TO TV TIME RELATED TO DIAGNOSIS HAS BEEN COMPLETED.
SUBJECT: AUTISM
Date: 96-02-02 22:46:19 edt FROM: SLewine911
HAVE YOU READ THE BOOK "SONRISE"?
SUBJECT: REPLY:AUTISTIC LIKE
Date: 96-02-02 22:51:40 edt FROM: SLewine911
THERE IS A GROUP OF AUTISTIC LIKE DISABILITES THAT ARE NOT AUTISM. SOMEHOW THEY JUST GOT ALL LUMPED IN TOGETHER. MY SON HAS PERVASIVE DISABILITY DISORDER WHICH IS A "AUTISTIC-LIKE" CONDITION THAT REALLY IS NOTHING LIKE AUTISM.
SUBJECT: Re:Applied behavior analysis
Date: 96-02-03 10:48:04 edt FROM: RML52
I'm a director of a spec. ed. preschool and we are currently seeing many children with pervasive developmental disorders. We need to do some staff training and I'm trying to get information about ABA. Any help, resources, etc. would be greatly appreciated.
Thanks, Ruth
SUBJECT: Miller Method
Date: 96-02-03 13:33:45 edt FROM: Aseddon
Anyone know anything about the Miller method? I got a brochure on it recently
- there's a workshop in Tallahassee in March. It looks like it might have something to do with sensory integration, even though they don't use that term. Anybody know any articles I can read or anything about this? Please post here or e-mail me.
Thanks.
SUBJECT: Testing/Autism
Date: 96-02-04 22:18:20 edt FROM: JBeli70618
I'm currently working with a 5 year old kindergartener who is autistic. In March, his three-year re-evaluation will be coming up. Can anyone suggest any tests that have been successful for autistic kids. I think I'll maily have to rely on observation and the Vineland.
Thanks
Tammy B.
SUBJECT: Free/Appropriate Education
Date: 96-02-08 01:01:13 edt FROM: THead900
I am the mother of six-year old twin boys diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder. One is mainstreamed into a regular ed first-grade class and I do not feel that his needs are being met. Although fairly caring, his public school team is extremely uninformed and inexperienced in dealing with the needs of high-functioning autistic children. In meeting after meeting they agree with me that they need to do more for him but more than halfway through the school year there is still not a coherent plan in place. How long do they have to come up with and implement a plan to provide him with an approrpriate education? Any thoughts or suggestions?
SUBJECT:
Re: Free/Appropriate Education
Date: 96-02-08 22:03:29 edt FROM: MEEPK
Leave him where he is and get the district to provide the supports in the class. In my experience I have seen more kids social skills go down the tubes when they are placed in classes with other kids with autism. They become prompt dependent and learn skills in isolated environments. Get your district to provide services within the "general education" environment, social skills and language will be greatly enhanced. Don't take him out.
SUBJECT: Son-Rise
Date: 96-02-09 16:06:13 edt FROM: BritSkye
hi, my name's Britta, and i'm 17....i am VERY interested in autism; it fascinates me, and for the first time, in just 4 days, i'm going to meet an autistic boy and spend time getting to know him. i'm really excited. but anyways, i read a LOT on the subject, and i just finished "Son-Rise, the Miracle Continues" by Barry Kaufman a few hours ago, and thought it was great. i was wondering if any of you have opinions on the book, or if any of you have found the Options Method successful. the Option Institute is only about 3 hours from where i live, and i am considering volunteering there if i can.
thanx!!!
Britta, a regular lurker in this folder. :)
SUBJECT: Re:Testing/Autism
Date: 96-02-11 12:22:17 edt FROM: KMILRTYM
Hello! I am also looking for testing information. I have a five year old,kindergarten child who is autistic, nonverbal and exhibits many challenging behaviors. Please help!
KMILRTYM
SUBJECT: Re:Discreet Trial
Date: 96-02-11 12:27:07 edt FROM: KMILRTYM
Where can I get information on the Discreet Trial program? Please leave a message here. Thanks.
SUBJECT: toilet triaining pix brd
Date: 96-02-12 12:13:49 edt FROM: KMunster
the computer crashed...hence, the explanation of how we used the board was
not available....its fixed now so it will be on its way...Kai
SUBJECT:
Re: Free/Appropriate Education
Date: 96-02-12 17:57:15 edt FROM: RKSD WITZ
I work in aprogram for Autistic children. If you have a program in your area that has experienced teachers of Autism, they can work together with their general ed. counterparts to develop an effective program, if you can get them together. We tried to do that last year (we volunteered to assist) but the parent was hostile to working with any Spec Ed program. We know we could have helped, the program failed and the child was taken to a private school.
If the 2 programs can work cooperatively the chances of success will increase
dramatically. GOOD LUCK
SUBJECT: Re:Free/Appropriate Educatio
Date: 96-02-12 22:20:49 edt FROM: TeachCathy
THead900
How frustrating! The squeaky wheel gets the grease. Set in motion a demand for an amendment to his IEP. If you have not signed one yet, check your parents rights booklet.(By law, they should have given you one.) They have only 30 days to have a TEAM meeting in place for you to approve the IEP.If you cannot come to an agreement, you also have the right to a second opinion,including independent testing (paid for by your school district).These are Federal laws, applicable throughout the U.S.Make sure everything is in writing, and signed and dated by you and them. Accept NO excuses! You are your child's greatest advocate.Fight like hell!
SUBJECT:
Re: Free/Appropriate Education
Date: 96-02-15 11:48:54 edt FROM: KMunster
You should be able to contact the Special Ed. Dept. for your school district and get a written time-line from them. This indicates the Fed and state regs as to when they have to respond to your concerns. A written letter can set mediation into motion and if all else fails you can bring the issue to due process. The school district has to have in writing the specific steps required to begin mediation or due process.
I am not suggesting that escalation of the issue is appropriate at this time.
Only that these are real steps that work when "in-school" negotiations have
not produced the outcomes you expect. He does have the right to have his
needs met. Good luck, Kai
SUBJECT: Re:Lovass Book
Date: 96-02-15 17:36:17 edt FROM: BPlev
new Lovass Book due out within the next year or so
SUBJECT: Re:teachers stories
Date: 96-02-19 01:54:24 edt FROM: Jbsennett
Has anyone read any books or articles written by teachers about their experiences working with children with autism. I am particularly interested in teachers who are working in inclusive classrooms.
Thanks!
Jackie Sennett
SUBJECT: Sibling Support Grp
Date: 96-02-20 12:08:39 edt FROM: KMunster
I will be working with the local school district to set up a sibling support
group for families dealing with autism. Generally focusing on elementary age
now since that meets my son's needs....anyone have experience or suggestions
to make it successful for all? Kai
SUBJECT: Re:Advice on Autism
Date: 96-02-21 18:19:34 edt FROM: JoyNP
You voiced what a lot of parents feel who have a child who is differnt from other kids. We go through a grieving process at the time of the diagnosis. But we can re-enter the grieving process at different stages in our child's life. A friend of mine who has a child w/ Down's warned me about this and I'm grateful she did. I find myself grieving the loss of the "normal" child at various developmental stages when I see what her peers are doing. It's not that I don't love or want my daughter, it's just that I did not pray for an autistic child while I was pregnant w/ her. I guess it is sort of like booking a direct flight to Rome, but the planes lands in Amsterdam instead. What I expected, and what I got are two different things. But one tries to find the best and do the best to accept the situation.
SUBJECT: Re:Sibling
Support Grp
Date: 96-02-21 22:49:45 edt FROM: IzzyVa
Two years ago at the National ASA meeting in Las Vegas, someone did a presentation on "Sibshops" and how they worked sibling support groups. Sorry I don't remember the name. You may want to contact ASA at 1800 3 AUTISM for more info. He had very good ideas. They tended to do fun things and not focus on their sibs with autism. During the fun, they just naturally started talking and sharing feelings.
SUBJECT: Re:Sleep Aids
Date: 96-02-22 01:19:54 edt FROM: Blakes 5
MY SON IS 3 AND A HALF AND HAS TROUBLE SLEEPING, ESPECIALLY WHEN HE IS NOT AT HOME. OUR NEUROLOGIST SUGGESTED MELATONIN AND IT HAS BEEN A LIFE-SAVER. WE ONLY GIVE HIM ON HALF OF A PILL (SOMETIMES A WHOLE) BEFORE BEDTIME AND IT REALLY HELPS HIM TO CALM DOWN. IT IS EASILY AVAILABLE IN HEALTH FOODS STORES AND IS VERY REASONABLY PRICED. HAPPY SLEEPING!!!
SUBJECT:
Re: Sleep Aids
Date: 96-02-22 22:00:49 edt FROM: SusanS29
Blakes this is fine for your child because your doctor recommended it.
But melatonin is often contra-indicated in children. People should check with their pediatricians before giving their child any kind of sleep aid.
Also Blakes-please don't post in ALL CAPS. That's how we show we're "SHOUTING" on-line, and it's hard to read.
Thanks, and good luck with the sleep problems.
SusanS29, Host
SUBJECT: Re:autism-body temperature
Date: 96-02-23 10:48:04 edt FROM: Whereit
My son who is 4 will run a low body temp. but then will just spike a fever
and yet does not act sick He can have a fever of 102 and run around like
nothing is wrong. He has a twinm and when he runs a fever there is generally
something wrong and will just lay around. The fever will go away after a few
hours and he will return to a below normal body temperature
SUBJECT:
Re: Hyperlexia and Autism
Date: 96-02-23 10:55:19 edt FROM: Whereit
I have a four year old son who has autism and hyperlexia. He reads on the 3rd grade level, can +, - and is learning his multiplication tables. He has problems with social skills and spont. language. Does anybody out there have a son like this, and how are you teaching language in social skills. We are currently doing a behavioral treatment, and it's been great, but we are struggling in this area. I've tried scripts, and they work to some degree.
SUBJECT: Magnet Pads
Date: 96-02-24 21:12:30 edt FROM: Way7SAC10
Our son sleeps on a magnet pad and his sleep /rest has improved.
SUBJECT:
Re: Magnet Pads
Date: 96-02-25 08:31:08 edt FROM: ShrMnn
Way7SAC10. Where did you purchase the pad? A person in a parent group I attend did a mini-presentation on the whole "magnet" thing a few months ago, but she hasn't been to a meeting in awhile. I'd like to learn a little more about it.
Sharon
SUBJECT: Re:autism-computer software
Date: 96-02-25 18:47:16 edt FROM: TAK Book
To JBeli70618:
My son has been diagnosed with infantile autisum and loves Mickey Mouse Day
at the Fair and
another program called StickeyBears which came in a set. He will be 8 in
July
SUBJECT: Re:Moved-childcare needed
Date: 96-02-25 18:53:36 edt FROM: TAK Book
You might check with your Mental Health/Mental Retardation, because they can pay for Respite care for your child. In Texas, they pay someone 7 dollars an hour to take care of your child. It can be someone you select or someone they select.
SUBJECT: Re:autism in elementary
educ
Date: 96-02-25 19:20:39 edt FROM: TAK Book
I have a son who will be 8 in July who is diagnosed as infantile autisum and would be willing to do survey,etc to help.
SUBJECT: Re:Unique strengths of famil
Date: 96-02-25 23:20:40 edt FROM: JWN65
The most difficult part of having a child in the family with autism is the reaction from the extended family. That is the most hurtful. Time and time again, I hear stories of parents like myself that are treated as "bad parents" and the child is treated as an out cast. To be honest, with certain family members, I don't even discuss my son. But, I wouldn't trade Ben for any other child. He has taught me so much. He has a unique sense of humor and love of life. We value Ben for Ben and not for what he isn't yet or may not ever be. If you have any particular questions, e-mail me. JWN65.
SUBJECT: Re:autism in elementary educ
Date: 96-02-25 23:22:23 edt FROM: JWN65
My name is Judi and I would very much like to help you. I think I could
offer you a great deal. I am currently vice president of my local chapter of
ASA. E-Mail me for further contact. JWN65
SUBJECT: Re: discreet trials
Date: 96-02-25 23:36:53 edt FROM: Whereit
KMILRTYM: We use discreet trials on my son and it has really worked. What
did you need to Know. I have even started writing some of the programs
myself.( I use to be a special ed teacher) Go ahead and E-mail me if you
like
SUBJECT: Re:autism-computer software
Date: 96-02-26 22:59:40 edt FROM: IzzyVa
My son is 5 was diagnosed with autism at age 2. He has been using the computer since age 3. He loves My first amazing incredible dictionary on CD (really helps with new words)
Dr. Seuss ABCs and all other living books
Recently is playing a lot with Interactive Reading Journey
He started with a shareware program called MY letters. He was able to look at the screen and find the corresponding letter on the keyboard. Sure helped with his "pointing" abilities which up until that time had been almost nonexistent.
SUBJECT: Conferences in MidAtlantic
Date: 96-02-26 23:10:46 edt FROM: IzzyVa
Here is some info regarding some upcoming conferences in the MidAtlantic Area
You can E-Mail me for more information regarding any of the conferences.
"The Miller Method" A developmental approach for children with autism and PDD. In Williamsburg VA March 1-2, 1996.
Sponsored by The Language and Cognitive Development Center of Boston
Cost: Professionals $225 for both days, $125 one day
Parents $170 for both days $95 for 1 day.
Social Stories and Comic Strip Conversations: Teaching Social understanding to students with autism and related disorders.
Richmond, VA Saturday March 16, 1996 8:00 - 3:30 PM
Speaker Carol Gray: Educational consultant for students with autism. She developed the concept.
Sponsored: Central VA Chapter of the Autism Society of America
Cost $25 for full day workshop includes continental breakfast and lunch and
handouts
Maximizing Potentials "Working together to blend theory and Practice" 10th annual conf.
Virginia Beach, VA April 24-26th, 1996
Will address techniques and training that wil assist direct care providers in serving and providing support to individuals with developmental disabilities.
SponsorsL Am Assoc on Mental Retardation VA Chapter, Community Living for
the mentally retarded (CLAMR) and VA Autism Resource Center
AUTISM '96
Baltimore Washington International Airport Marriot
April 26 and 27
Featuring Temple Grandin, Thomas McKean, Dr. Max Wiznitzer, Gail Gillingham, Jennifer Twachtman, Dr. Marie Bristol, Toni Flower and Dr. Jaqueline Cimorrelli.
Fee $89 for 2 days.
Autism Society of West Virginia Spring Conference
Charleston Marriott, West Virginia
May 17-18, 1996
Speakers Gail Richard, Luke Tsai and Judy Favell
All sound pretty good. E-mail me for more info.
SUBJECT: Magnet Pads
Date: 96-02-27 20:52:30 edt FROM: Way7SAC10
Sharon, we bought the magnet pad from Nikken Company email if you need more info.
SUBJECT: Re:Magnet Pads
Date: 96-02-27 21:13:27 edt FROM: Passarette
Hello - I'd be interested in more information about the magnet pads - company phone number, address. Please send e-mail to Passarette@AOL.COM. Thanks!
SUBJECT: Re:autism-computer software
Date: 96-02-27 21:25:31 edt FROM: Passarette
I'd like to add some more computer software packages that my 6 yr old son w/autism/hyperlexia enjoys - many of these are available on CD ROM - Broderbund Living Books series: Dr. Seuss's ABC's, Arthur's Teaching Trouble, The Berenstain Bears Get In A Fight, Little Monster At School, Arthurs Birthday and Just Grandma and Me. He also likes two Sesame Street programs called Let's Make a Word and Sesame Street Letters. Other's he likes include Sound It Out Land and My First Incredible Amazing Dictionary (fantastic!).
We also have the Sega Pico unit which has alot of great educational "storyware" for it - each package has various activities for the kids to do, i.e. matching, connect the dots, games and always includes a drawing/animation page at the end. The unit hooks up to the television and both of my kids can set it up on their own! (I supervise the electrical cord plug-in!). It was on the Pico that my son started doing connect the dots, now he's interested in doing outside of the computer in the many, many books that I'd purchased for him in the past.
There is also a company developing a discrete trial software package called Labeling Tutor, I believe the company is called Millenium Software, it's available now for the Mac or Apple (not sure) and they're working on the IBM PC version. I don't have further info on the company at my fingertips, but if someone was interested, I'd be glad to locate it and pass it on. If anyone else knows about any software packages that they've had great success with - please pass them on!
Jean
SUBJECT: Fight for what?
Date: 96-02-27 23:03:32 edt FROM: CherylN102
You see repeatedly that parents should fight for their children's rights, but what if the schools cannot possibly deliver what the child needs. We had a severe autistic that moved after a few months to another school district. He was in a constant state of agitation with screaming and self abuse. The parents said he wouldn't sleep or eat and we couldn't get him to eat. He was anemic and mineral deficient. Where was the medical help here? What can you do for a child like that? This was beyond behavior modification (what a joke for autistics).
SUBJECT: Re:Fight for what?
Date: 96-02-28 00:19:21 edt FROM: Whereit
I can sympathize with your problem, however I resent the last remark that behavioral therapy is a joke for a child with autism. My son has been receiving behavioral therapy for the past year and a half. He went from a child that wouldn't look at me, didn't say a word, and just wanted to sit and rock. I now have a child that calls me mom, searches me out, is happy to see my husband and me if we go out for an evening, and is starting to play with his twim brother. Is this a joke. YOU obviously do not look at the research out there to see that this is an effective way to deal with a person with autism. I get real tired of these blanket statements. Temple Grandin ( who has autism) states that behavioral therapy is the best method. Dr. Rimland, also states that the first thing you do with your child that has autism is to put them into a behavioral treatment. (I've heard both of these people speak) Maybe is not totally effective for each person, but I'm living proof that it's no JOKE!!!!!!
SUBJECT: Self-Stimulation
Date: 96-02-28 10:25:53 edt FROM: LJSSPED
I am a Special Education teacher and I am looking for information on the reducation of Self-Stimulatory behavior. Please send me any information that may be of help.
Thanks, LJSSPED
SUBJECT: Re:Self-Stimulation
Date: 96-02-28 11:52:59 edt FROM: TAK Book
When my son stems at school, it's usually with a washcloth and they have him wipe the table.
SUBJECT: Re:Fight for what?
Date: 96-02-28 11:57:55 edt FROM: TAK Book
I also agree that behavioral therapy is not a joke. My son will be 8 in July. He calls the remote control for the tv a remo and the vcr control is a rewind. He looks at me, searches me out to play with him and tells me he is a good boy(can't say the letter g). He frustrates me at times,but he is a good boy. When he wants to go to Grandpa, he tells me Oh Bye Bye and I ask him where he wants to go and he says Anpa.
Raye
SUBJECT: Re:Unique strengths of famil
Date: 96-02-28 12:06:41 edt FROM: TAK Book
For a long time my husbands family felt I was controlling our son too much because I would try to work with him no matter where we were. They felt if he was at their house he could do anything he wanted and I shouldn't say a word. Now that my sister-in-law have kids, I think they understand a little more. My dad just remarried 2 years ago and my new family is just terrific.
They already have a little boy in the family like John so they understand and they treat him just like a member of their family and invite us to all the cookouts and festivities. It has been so terrific to know that if I need them there are there. My Dad and Stepmother (Mom) just love having him over . All we do is call to make sure they are home and we're off. John knows he is welcome there and loves going to see Anpa(Grandpa).
Raye
SUBJECT: Re:Fight for what?
Date: 96-03-01 01:41:13 edt FROM: SusanS29
"You see repeatedly that parents should fight for their children's rights, but what if the schools cannot possibly deliver what the child needs."
If the school district cannot provide what the child needs, they are obligated to pay the tuition at a private school which can. This is done fairly often, and districts are required to do so when it's clear their programs won't do the job.
SUBJECT: Re:Fight for what?
Date: 96-03-01 17:55:41 edt FROM: JSchutzer
Behavior modification is proven effective with autisic children. My son is living proof of that. When he began his program 18 months ago he had no eye contact, could not speak, had no self help skills, and incredibly bad behavior. Today he has over 200 words, normal eye contact, can dress and undress, feed himself, help with the housework (his idea!) and is a normally active and happy, although well behaved, 4 yr old. He is by no means recovered, but he is certainly more typical than he was 1.5 yrs ago. It is not for everyone, but it helps many autistic children live better lives.
Jennifer
SUBJECT: autism-louvas
Date: 96-03-01 22:32:16 edt FROM: MMinkus
i have worked with these special people All my life
i am trained in louvas and many other methods.... call
on my brain ,,,and my senses too help you.... just send me your thoughts...
i'll try and give yoou some message
SUBJECT: behavior therapy
Date: 96-03-02 18:11:23 edt FROM: JLubin7984
Has anyone read the new book by Bryna Seigel?
What about the Teech method, I heard this has good results?
SUBJECT:
Re: Self-Stimulation
Date: 96-03-03 13:54:32 edt FROM: ESSIG AE
If you read Temple Grandin's books, she often speaks about self-stim behaviors. In a nut shell, she says that these behaviors are a way for a child to block out the world because their senses can't take in the information it receives. It's too chaotic, and sometimes it hurts. She says to try to make the stimulatory behavior interactive in some way so the child doesn't "retreat". Also, not to allow a child to stim for too long. 5 -10 minutes at a time is fine because sometimes these children need to calm themselves down. But longer than that, these behaviors will cause the brain to block information (any perseverative behavior will do this), and when we are trying to teach, this is not what we want to have happen. Of course, you need to look at each child individually and make decisions. Also, a book called "Autism, Handle With Care" by Gail Gillingham is wonderful. It talks about each sense and why children behave certain ways. It then talks about managing behavior in a positive way.
Ann
SUBJECT: inclusion
Date: 96-03-03 17:00:59 edt FROM: Jmarryan
This is my first time on AOL. I am a graduate student doing a paper on inclusion and the autistic child. If you know of any articles or groups that could help with my research please e-mail me at jmarryan. Thanks!
SUBJECT: Need info
Date: 96-03-03 19:28:56 edt FROM: KSW25
I'm looking for any type of information anyone has out there concerning autism and PDD. I am a special ed teacher in PA, currently working on my masters degree and I teach five autistic children in a private middle school. I am looking for info on new programs to try as well as any literature you can point me to. A particular problem that my partner and I are working on currently with two of our students is how these children face and deal with their emerging sexuality. Any pointers? Please email me at KSW25 if you have any info for me-THANKs!
SUBJECT: biting
Date: 96-03-04 22:51:40 edt FROM: BButton607
i have a 5 year old child with autisic features and has a behaviorial problem
in school with biting his aid. any advice on how this can be controlled
BButton607
SUBJECT: Re:Need info
Date: 96-03-05 18:30:53 edt FROM: Jmarryan
I am a graduate student trying to obtain my Special Ed. certification. I am researching a paper on inclusion and the autistic child. If you know of any materials that would help in this research please e mail me at jmarryan. I also have to do an oral presentation if you have any suggestions on a creative way to present this topic let me know. Thanks!
SUBJECT: Add to fight
for what?
Date: 96-03-05 22:23:06 edt FROM: CherylN102
The district I work in has other autistic children that have responded to behavior therapy but they were not malnourished, sleep deprived and in a constant state of agitation like this child was. He was in hell and there was not way to retrieve him. He needed medical intervention. On occasion he was taken to an emergency room and knocked out for 24 hours, but he was not experiencing many calm periods despite attempts to place him in a quiet calming environment. A few times he fell asleep and the parents were not happy with us for allowing it to happen.
SUBJECT: Re:Discreet Trial
Date: 96-03-06 15:42:02 edt FROM: NickM87835
I am trying to set up a Lovaas or Lovaas type program for my 2 yr old son. I live in Michigan and am having a hard time finding a local program for him. Also, all of the programs in other areas of the country have impossible wait lists. I am now looking at trying to hire students and set up a program myself. can anyone ofeer any help or suggestions?
SUBJECT: Re:Discreet Trial
Date: 96-03-06 23:33:20 edt FROM: Whereit
I have found 2 of my teachers at the local university. Try calling if you have one nearby and talk to the dean of psych or education. so far I've been lucky and have gotten people that are willing to learn and try new things. They have been wonderful.
SUBJECT: Childhood disintegration dis
Date: 96-03-08 13:09:32 edt FROM: EBrunning
Hello
I am currently working on a paper for grad school about childhood disintegrative disorder. I am having difficulty finding resources on this subject. If anyone knows any good books, magazines or doctors that have some information about this disorder, could you let me know.
Also, I am looking into the use of an augmentative communication tool to be used to aid in communication. I am particularly interested in using a technological tool, such as boardmaker to enhance this type of child's communication skills. Has anyone heard of anyone using this tool or seen anyone using this tool with a child who has this disorder or another form of autism?
If you have any info on this material, please feel free to email me at
Ebrunning@aol.com
Thanks alot,
Emmajean Brunning
SUBJECT: Re:Help!
Date: 96-03-09 01:40:32 edt FROM: CCO822
I work as a consultant in Northern California and we are seeing an increasing number of very young children having autistic like behaviors. The program at Emory was mentioned to us and I would like to know more about it. Are there programs that you know that serve children 18 months. Thanks for your help. You can e-mail me at CCO822@aol.com.
SUBJECT: Re:Hyperlexia and Autism
Date: 96-03-11 01:14:01 edt FROM: Cbug418
Dear Whereit:
I have a 10 year old son who is hyperlexic/autistic and he is doing great in school (full day inclusion in the 4th gr. w/ individual aid). Socially he is a bit immature for a 10 yr.old but gets along and wants to be social. His spontaneous conversation has grown so much that I'm amazed. What exactly do you want to know? I'll be willing to try to answer all ? Email me----CBug418.
SUBJECT: Re:Moved-childcare needed
Date: 96-03-13 22:53:57 edt FROM: CMullis859
Gordy's Mom-
Hi, I'm Danielle's foster mom. She is 11 years old and was institutionalized for much of her life before she was diagnosed as having autism. She requires constant one-on-one supervision, and I receive dollars to pay for that through medicaid's waiver program. Does Gordy have those benefits? Danielle and I would not be able to do what we are doing without the waiver.
SUBJECT: Re:Sleep Aids
Date: 96-03-13 22:58:48 edt FROM: CMullis859
I read recently that over-the-counter melatonin has been a wonderful sleeping aid for many children with autism. It did NOT work for my 11-year old foster daughter (who can tolerate more medication than a football team combined and still want to busy around), but the journal report I read gave very specific successful case histories of the substance's effect.
SUBJECT: Re:Sleep Aids
Date: 96-03-13 23:00:27 edt FROM: CMullis859
Didn't work for my 11-year old, but have heard many success stories.
SUBJECT:
Adaptive PE
Date: 96-03-14 23:34:20 edt FROM: SRossitto
We are currently working to include an autistic 10 year old into the regulare
gym classes. Need suggestions and resources on adapting PE programs. I have
a meeting this Monday so can use some quick tips to get started. I can be
e-mailed SRossitto
SUBJECT: Autismm-Assessment
Date: 96-03-15 18:57:34 edt FROM: Slusar
I am a preschool special education teacher. The children in my class have a wide range of abilites-autism to speech to social skills. I would like to get information from others who are doing assessments on children who are autistic. The particular child I am working with is 6 years old and is nonverbal. The intervention team has had several discussions about what assessments we will use to get a true picture of his abilities. We have discussed doing many observations and using anectdotal notes as part of the assessment process for placement. (Of course numbers are an important part of the identification process for placement purposes.) I would like to know about any "standardized" instruments that anyone has used with this group of children. Please send e-mail to SLUSAR@aol.com if you have any suggestions. Thank you very much!!!
SUBJECT: Autism - Lovaas
Date: 96-03-15 18:59:16 edt FROM: Slusar
I have been hearing a few things about the Lovass intervention strategies. I am interested in obtaining more information. Any suggestions? Please send e-mail to SLUSAR@AOL.COM. Thank you!!!
SUBJECT: Re:Childhood disintegration
Date: 96-03-16 11:09:54 edt FROM: BritSkye
Hi!
<<I am currently working on a paper for grad school about childhood
disintegrative disorder. I am having difficulty finding resources on this
subject. If anyone knows any good books,>>
i just read "the world of the autistic child" by Bryna Seigal, which is very comprehensive and has loads of information about PDDs in general, including CDD.
good luck!!
Britta
SUBJECT: Re:Sleep Aids-Melatonin
Date: 96-03-16 17:52:26 edt FROM: Cbug418
Will melatonin clash with ritalin?
SUBJECT: Resources
Date: 96-03-16 22:28:08 edt FROM: TABENZ
To: Mary N at Frogguy7
I work with Autistic children in the Western New York and have a valuable
resource in Toronto. It is called the Geneva Center. I haven't been to
visit, however have been a part of an evaluation that was done for my
students and a work shop. They suggested a book by Kathleen Quill called
Teaching the Autistic child (or something to that effect). I've only read a
small amount but it is a great book with many Knowledgable people writing
chapters. Good Luck! Lisa
SUBJECT: need help for research paper
Date: 96-03-18 01:36:46 edt FROM: HeatherWVU
Hello! My name is heather and i got to West Va. university. I am currently researching the use of facilitated communication for my issues paper in my special education class and coud use any feedback that you could pass along to me about the use of it, your feeling and the pro's and con's of it's use. I would greatly appreciate it.
Heather
SUBJECT: Re:Autismm-Assessment
Date: 96-03-18 18:00:42 edt FROM: Mair1 otr
I have read about an assessment of cognitive functioning for verbally
handicapped and foreign speakers that was once used successfully to determine
the suspected intelligence of a nonverbal autistic boy. It is called the
Leiter International Performance Scales. I do not have any information on
where to find it, etc. but I hope the name helps you to locate it. Mair
SUBJECT:
Puberty
Date: 96-03-19 12:06:48 edt FROM: DDFCLC
I need some information, concerning, puberty in childern with autism. Males, in particular. Does it cause some behavior changes, like anger, self abuse, etc.? Any and all information will be appreciated. Please EMail to DDFCLC@aol.com. Thanks!
SUBJECT: HELP! New Diagnosis
Date: 96-03-19 22:40:43 edt FROM: HCrackers
My 9-year old was being treated for ADHD, anxiety disorders, expressive language disorder, etc. for years and was just diagnosed as autistic. I'm in a state of "quandry" in that I'm not sure where to turn to next. For the most part, we are ok with the diagnosis, kinda explains why we have been pulling our hair out for years to no avail!!!!! Any suggestions?
SUBJECT:
Re: autism-computer software
Date: 96-03-20 15:33:31 edt FROM: TAK Book
My son will be 8 in July and he loves the living books put out by Broderbund Company. They have one called Just Grandma and Me. He has learned to move the mouse, only took a couple of seconds,and was off and listening to the story read to him. You can also take the mouse and click on different items on the story page and the item clicked on does something. He is fascinated.
Raye
SUBJECT: Lovass
Date: 96-03-21 18:58:21 edt FROM: SHARPE326
I am looking for information on the effectiveness of the Lovass behavior management program for autistic children.
Any information can be Emailed to me at
SHARPE326@AOL.COM
SUBJECT: Re:Autism
Date: 96-03-21 19:10:53 edt FROM: SHARPE326
TOPPCHOPP,
YOU NEED TO SLOWLY INCREASE THE LENGHT OF IN SEAT BEHAVIOR OF YOUR STUDENTS.BEGIN BY FINDING AN ACTIVITIY THAT THE CHILDREN ENJOY. ASK YOUR OT FOR ACTIVITIES. I HAVE A STUDENT WHO LOVES TO STAMP PAPER USING STAMP PADS AND INK. PRIOR TO INTRODUCING THIS ACTIVITY THE CHILD WOULD ONLY ATTEND UNDER TWO MINUTES SHE NOW ATTENDS FOR FIVE TO SEVEN MINUTES, IF SHE LIKES THE ACTIVITY.
ANOTHER ACTIVITY IS FINGER PAINTING USING PUDDING, WHIPPED CREAM, JELLO..
HAVE AIDES BODY TRACE BODY. COLR USING FINGER PAINTS.
A GREAT BOOK FOR LOCATING IDEAS FOR THE LOW FUNCTIONING.."WHAT TO EXPECT THE
FIRST YEARS" THIS CAN BE FOUND IN MOST BOOK STORES. GOOD REFERENCE FOR FINDING OUT DEVELOPMENTAL LEVELS.
GOOD LUCK. WRITE ME AT SHARPE326 @ AOL.COM
SUBJECT: Re:Autism
Date: 96-03-21 19:41:35 edt FROM: Ratatat
Sharp,
Thank you for your excellent post, but please write your messages in upper case and lower case letters. Messages written in ALL CAPS are hard to read.
Also, in on-line edquitte, it is considered shouting.
SUBJECT: Re:Lovass
Date: 96-03-22 19:31:36 edt FROM: MEEPK
Be careful! Generalization is the missing skill in this type of methodology. I have seen many students learn skills in a very controlled setting and never use them functionally. Just a word to the wise.
SUBJECT: Response to HELP!
Date: 96-03-23 12:23:17 edt FROM: MissChooch
HCrackers - I know what your're going through. We went through the same thing when we finally got the autism diagnosis 2 years ago. Our son was 12 at the time. Up to that time it was ADHD, PDD, "Autistic Tendancies", etc. We found the formal diagnosis actually was a relief. We haven't really changed what we are doing, but we don't feel the same need to keep defining his disability. It also has helped secure some additional services at school. Don't keep pulling your hair out - you'll be cold for a long time if you do! We just take a day at a time and enjoy it as much as possible. Our biggest problem right now is his tendancy toward insomnia - he deals with it MUCH better than I do. Do you have any similar problem? Good luch and feel free to contact me directly at my e-mail address - MissChooch.
SUBJECT: Re:Autism
Date: 96-03-24 02:35:08 edt FROM: DParks1050
I have a child with autism in my classroom and I don't even know how to start teaching him anything. I am not sure what he is understanding.
SUBJECT: Re:To
DParks-new student
Date: 96-03-25 00:22:29 edt FROM: Jbsennett
To DParks regarding your new student:
I can imagine that it is difficult trying to integrate a new student at this point in the school year. To be able to give you some suggestions it would be helpful to know the following:
1. What grade do you teach?
2. Are you in a regular education setting (or special needs setting?) 3. Has the child been involved in any types of early intervention programs (i.e. a behavioral program at home or at a previous school)?
4. Does the child have an IEP? If so, what goals have been set and what types of supports are available?
5. Does the child engage in any types of self injurious behaviors?
6. Do you have a teaching assistant in the classroom for all or part of the day?
7. Does this child talk?
I work with a number of teachers who are new to working with children with autism. If you can describe your situation in a bit more detail, I will be glad to offer some suggestions. I think the most important things to remember are the following:
1. you shouldn't be in a position to handle this challenging situation by yourself. The child's family, school and district specialists, and your local autism society can all be great resources.
2. If you are in a regular classroom make sure to educate the other students about autism. There are a couple of good kids books (depending on your grade) that portray stories about children with autism.
3. Don't assume that this child doesn't understand you. The children I work with are much better at comprehending than most people give them credit for.
4. Begin to start thinking about the structure and routines in your classroom. If you are a very structured teacher then the transition to your classroom may be relatively easy for this child. If your classroom is less structured, you may need to think about ways that you can build routines into this child's daily classroom schedule.
5. A couple of things I have noticed when working in the regular classroom with children with autism (depending on the child):
- Some kids have a hard time with bright colors. I try to wear a lot of neutral (monochromatic) colors in the classroom. I avoid wearing bright patterned clothing.
-Classroom lighting can sometimes be a problem. On some days we leave only half of the lights on. School bells during recess time are typically problemmatic. (Thus, you may need to think about how to set up a transition from recess back into the classroom).
-Think about safety issues for this child. Some children with autism take physical risks (i.e. climbing on filing cabinets, crawling out of windows). If your classroom is not on the ground floor this can be a real problem.
6. Are there any other children with autism in your school. If so, talk with other teachers to find out what has worked for them.
These are just a few things that I can come up with off the top of my head.
If you provide more information I will be glad to offer additional ideas.
(Other teachers who read this folder will also have ideas).
Good luck.
Jackie Sennett, Ph.D
Dept. of Educational Psychology and Special Education
University of British Columbia
Vancouver, British Columbia
SUBJECT: Eating dirt, pica behavior
Date: 96-03-25 00:40:23 edt FROM: TCJTM
I have a 3 year old son with autistic features, development delays, non-verbal, hypotonia, but otherwise happy, healthy and social.
It seems he can not resist the urge to put everything in his mouth and try to eat it. He love his food enough that he overeats alot causing him to sometimes throw it back up. We usually regulate his eating and that causes a tantrum at the end of the meal. He has been tested negative for the Prader-Willi Syndrome.
Would like to hear from anyone with a similar problem or any possible solutions to get him to keep the dirt, rocks and sticks out of his mouth. (E-mail TCJTM@aol.com)
Thanks.
SUBJECT: PDD???What does it mean?
Date: 96-03-25 17:45:02 edt FROM: LStulz
After years of searching and testing, a new pediatric neurologist said that my daughter had PDD, and he said that meant Pervaisive Developmental Delay, and yet in this folder I have been seeing it referred to as Pervaivsive (sp?) Disability Diagnosis. What is correct? My daughter seems to just be more delayed in Gross Motor and Speech, but NOT in cognitive and fine motor. Where do we go from here?
SUBJECT: Re: PDD
Date: 96-03-25 20:21:59 edt FROM: Remi1160
Your Dr. was correct, it's Pervasive Developmental Delay. It is common that children with PDD have a range of abilities and speech and languae is usually the area mosr delayed/disordered. I am a speech/language pathologist and I have been working with autistic and PDD preschoolers for six years in the NYC area. Let me know what kind of info you need.
SUBJECT: Re:PDD TSimers
Date: 96-03-26 13:25:42 edt FROM: A Lee N 42
I have an 11yr. boy with PDD. I'd be glad to share any info. with you on
our experiences and his challenges. Glad to hear you are doing more work on
PDD. It seems overlooked to me. Thanks
SUBJECT: AUTISM/HOMEOPATHIC MEDS.
Date: 96-03-27 01:13:24 edt FROM: MStueckrat
WE RECENTLY READ A ARTICLE IN THE MPLS., MN. PAPER ABOUT THE USE OF CALMPLEX
2000/NATURAL HOMEOPATHIC MEDICINE IN THE TREATMENT OF AUTISM.
ACTIVE INGREDIENTS: AVENA SATIVA, VALERIANA, CHAMOMILLA, IGNATIA, PASSIFLORA
HUMULUS LUP, COFFEA CRUDUM. MY SON IS 6 YEARS OLD AND IS HIGH FUNCTIONING.
HE CURRENTLY IS ON IMIPRAMINE. PLEASE RESPOND TO ANY INFO. ON HOMEOPATHIC
MEDICINE/AUTISM. THANKS
SUBJECT: Re:Autism
Date: 96-03-27 13:54:29 edt FROM: JScan33144
I have an eight year old child in my general ed classroom who has been diagnosed as having a form of autism. He is high functioning and can attend for five to ten minutes. He has frequent out of seat behaviors (2 x minute), obsession with water, tends to pick on weaker students-verbally & physically, and has some destructive traits. I have him in my room without assistance. He's always had a full time aide. I am spending 90% of my time managing his behaviors! To top it off his mother (only child) is disabled. She comes in and cries in front of the children and stays at school all day. Help!
SUBJECT:
Re: AUTISM/HOMEOPATHIC MEDS.
Date: 96-03-27 19:29:30 edt FROM: SusanS29
Please, everyone-use upper and lower case when posting. ;)
Thanks.
SusanS29, Host
SUBJECT: Re:AUTISM/HOMEOPATHIC MEDS.
Date: 96-03-27 20:18:11 edt FROM: LStulz
MStueckrat, where in the Mpls area are you from? I am from there also and need HELP!!!!
SUBJECT: Re:Autism - Lovaas
Date: 96-03-27 20:36:43 edt FROM: Jmarryan
I am a graduate student doing a research paper on inclusion and the autistic child. I have seen the term Lovaas intervention posted and would like to know more about it. If you can help please e-mail me at jmarryan.
Thanks
SUBJECT: Autism/Medication
Date: 96-03-27 23:55:32 edt FROM: MStueckrat
Does anyone have information on the drug BUSPIRONE and the treatment of autism? We have heard of positive results with this drug.
SUBJECT:
Re: Homepathic Medicine
Date: 96-03-28 00:00:03 edt FROM: MStueckrat
The article was in the Minneapolis, Mn. Star Tribune dated 04 Feb. 96
"Variety Section E"
Title A Calm in the Storm
SUBJECT: Been Around The Block
Date: 96-03-28 12:03:48 edt FROM: Way7SAC10
I am the dad of a 12 year old w/autism, and an advocate/president of the Detroit area chapter of the Autism Society of America. Just wanted to post that no one teaching method, treatment, vitamin, therapy, technique or other intervention works for all people with autism all the time. Much of the credit should be given to the person with autism for any noted improvements. Many children will show significant progress, without intense interventions, from age 2 through 6; so please be wary of "experts" who will only want to work with children of those ages. Be aware of the 30% rule: 30% of the placebo group are helped during discreet trials. Always check your sources for accuracy, here on AOL, in reference books, or any offered "facts". I don't want to take the wind out of anyone's sails, but it looked like time for a "heads up" for some of the posters out here.
SUBJECT: Re:Autism
Date: 96-03-28 20:07:40 edt FROM: RAGMN
I am presently working in a middle school and am having wonderful success with my student, a young male with autism. If you would like to know anything specific, please e-mail me as I would love to assist.
SUBJECT: Re:
Autism/Included Reg. Ed.
Date: 96-03-29 03:26:53 edt FROM: SharpE636
Looking for success ratio of children with Autism that have been schooled in
their home school district in a regular education class. A kindergarten
child with mild autism will enter the regular ed class during the 96-97
school year. This student has been home schooled using the Lovaas APA
program for the last two years. He has gone from being non verbal to a
speaking child. e-mail me at SharpE636 AOL.com
SUBJECT: JBeli70618
Date: 96-03-29 03:37:59 edt FROM: LRClark323
I understand you asked for advise awhile ago. I am just now reading your
concern. What helps when I work with students that don't like to touch/grasp
objects is I first rub their hands with something rough for example a
scrubber sponge this will de-syn. their hand to touch. Try it it might
work
SUBJECT: Re:Autism - Lovaas-WEB Site
Date: 96-03-29 10:36:06 edt FROM: Bettybech
Hi,
Don't know if this is old news, but there is a great resource for autism on line:
http://web.syr.edu/~jmwobus/autism
in the "Methods, Treatments, Programs" Section you'll find tons of info on Lovaas.
Hope this helps.
Betty
SUBJECT: Re:PDD TSimers
Date: 96-03-29 10:40:10 edt FROM: Bettybech
Hi,
I have a 4 year old daughter with PDD. I belong to a support group for parents of children with autism and related disorders (PDD!). At our last meeting we noticed that of the 12 children represented in our group, they are all 6 yrs. and younger. We thought this was rather unusual. Have the parents of the older kids learned to cope and don't need a support group? Have they given up? We were wondering what happens to these children as they mature. Any insight into what the future may hold for us would be much appreciated.
Thanks,
Betty
SUBJECT: Parent of 12 year old
Date: 96-03-29 12:50:06 edt FROM: Way7SAC10
No, we don't give up. Everybody gets better with age, hopefully. Parents of older children have seen so many things pass that some move on to take care of their own families and may lose touch with groups. I know I owe a lot of the opportunities for true choice to parents who went before me and fought for IDEA, and other federal legislation that many of us take for granted these days. As my child matures I now know that most, if not all the credit for anything accomplished goes to him and him alone. When your kids are six years old it is frustrating not knowing what's ahead, but I can assure you it gets better. And us greyhairs ain't going anywhere. Email me to get on our ASA chapter mailing list. Your group may find it informative.
SUBJECT: Schools
in St. Louis,Missour
Date: 96-03-29 13:15:35 edt FROM: Resroom
I am a special education teacher in Irvington, N.Y. We are currently including a student with autism into a 7th grade class. HIs parents are thinking of moving to St. Louis and I was wondering if there are any good special education programs for students with autism in St. Louis, Missouri, and if any schools are doing inclusion. My online name is Resroom.
Thanks, Bernye Oppenheimer/Resroom
SUBJECT: 6 yr. old w/autism
Date: 96-03-29 23:14:20 edt FROM: Chasfam
I'm a mom of a high functioning autistic son. We live in Conn. and is in a reg. first grade classroom w/ a part time aide. He is functioning on grade level but will not complete his work on his own. We recently moved here and in the other school he was working independantly(sp).I don't know what to do anymore.we had weaned him off the aide at the old school,(only needed him about 10 % of the time) Now he needs 100%. Any suggestions? He's done great with everything else, this kiddo is great he has been through 4 moves in 2 yrs.Also does anyone know of a behavior mod. person in the groton Ct. area ? We need help with toilet training.
Thank you:Beverly
SUBJECT: Minneapolis-Autism
Date: 96-03-31 10:58:31 edt FROM: Bettybech
Hi,
We just moved from Minneapolis (St. Louis Park) to the Chicago area. I saw some recent posts from people in Mpls. (regarding the Star-Tribune article on Calmplex - by Rexall Int.).
Have you folks heard of the Schaffer (sp?) school in Minneapolis? I saw a segment about it on Dave More's Sunday a.m. program on WCCO about 2 years ago. It's a pre-school for autistic children. I've never visited there, but it looked wonderful (on TV!). My daughter is now at the age where she could be attending a place like that, but now we're not there!
Just thought I'd pass the name along in case anyone was in need.
Betty
SUBJECT: Re:6 yr. old w/autism
Date: 96-03-31 12:43:54 edt FROM: DnAFeeney
Hi! It could be that your son is adjusting to a new home, enviorment and school. Remember changes can be very difficult for Autistic people. Probably as he adjustes and get used to his new school his need for an aide will decrease. Right now however he may just need the extra support.
Anne Feeney (DnAFeeney)
SUBJECT: Re:Been Around The Block
Date: 96-03-31 18:17:17 edt FROM: RKSD WITZ
You're absolutely correct. As an educator I see this all the time , especially since the Lovaas study. I'm glad to hear it from an advocate/parent,it means more to parents.
SUBJECT: How Much Spec Ed is Enough?
Date: 96-04-01 09:04:02 edt FROM: Bettybech
Hi,
I'm the mom of a 4 yr old girl who "has" PDD. We have just moved to a small Chicago suburb from the Minneapolis area. In Mpls my daughter went to an inclusion-style pre-school that was staffed by spec. ed teachers and therapists 5 days a week (a.m. and p.m.). When we moved in December she had just started naming things (great leap forward!!).
While I am very impressed with the dedication and knowledge of our new school district's special ed professionals, I am concerned that her pre-school program is not enough for her. The program is also inclusion-style at the city park district pre-school program. There is a special ed teacher, speech therapist and special ed assistant that divide their time between two classrooms. The last half hour of each session the special ed children stay and have more intense instruction with the staff. This pre-school meets only 2 days a week for 2.5 hrs. total. (The 3 yr. old group meets Tues & Thurs, the 4 yr. olds on MWF.)
I feel she would really benefit from more class time. I can "see" such a dramatic improvement in her attentiveness and verbalization after each pre-school session. As a parents, how do you know "how much" your child needs. It all seems so subjective. My gut feeling is she needs more, but I'm sure every parent feels that way, no matter how much ed. their child receives.
She has just started seeing a private music therapist (we pay for it) on one of her non-preschool days. (45 min. session) She absolutely loves it. It seems to be helping a lot.
Her IEP is coming up soon. Does anyone have any ideas/suggestions?
SUBJECT:
Re: How Much Spec Ed is Enoug
Date: 96-04-01 14:03:33 edt FROM: Chasfam
Betty: As a parent I feel that only you know what is best for your child. It is very important to listen carefully to each teacher and therapist involved with your daughter, but sometimes those "gut feelings" are the most important. You are the expert on your child and if you think she needs more, she most likley does. My son is 7 and has been in a full day program since the age of 3.(diagnosis was PDD now high-functioning Autism) He is now in a reg-ed first grade with the support of a part-time aide.Listen to your instints and you wiil rarely go wrong.
SUBJECT: Inclusion/reg.ed. teacher
Date: 96-04-01 15:17:42 edt FROM: Cbug418
Inclusion remedy: Invite the regular ed. teacher to your child's IEP along with the Autistic Program Inclusion director to schedule in-service meetings withthe teacher. I am planning to do this because I found that they never consult the reg.teacher. I have experienced this this year.
SUBJECT: A book
for everyone!!!!!
Date: 96-04-01 15:34:52 edt FROM: MPooreSLP
I am a speech pathologist and have worked with a number of kids with autism over the years. I'm on Spring Break right now and am reading a book that is absolutely fascinating. It's called Thinking In Pictures and the author is Temple Grandin. She is a woman who is autistic, has a PhD in animal science and is a professor at Colorado State University. She has done a tremendous amount of research on autism and lectures on it frequently. The book is about her, about autism and its many forms, and about her concerns about the humane treatment of animals. Its is very interesting to read something written from the "inside" perspective. I am gaining new understanding and insight that I know will help me with the kids I have who are autistic. She includes a lot of information about specific individuals that she has talked to and/or read about. In looking through the bibliography, I see there are a number of books published in the last 6 years by adults who are autistic. I have read one called "There's A Boy In Here" written by a young man and his mother which includes his recollections and his mother's diary entries for the same period. Also an excellent book.
Temple Grandin is also profiled in a book by Oliver Sacks, An Anthropologist on Mars. Grandin commented to Sacks that she feels like an anthropologist on Mars as she studies people in her effort to learn to be socially appropriate. I highly recommend this book to parents and educators. Its a very positive experience, especially if you are currently struggling with the issue of autism.
SUBJECT: RE: Autistic Authors
Date: 96-04-01 19:21:01 edt FROM: Way7SAC10
Nobody Nowhere & Somebody Somewhere by Donna Williams, Times Books; and Soon Will Come The Light, by Thomas McKean are both excellent books written by authors who have autism.
Contact the Autism Society of America (ASA) at 1-800-3-AUTISM and order the bookstore list form the Autism Society of North Carolina.
Anyone with a FAX machine can receive FREE information from ASA's FAX-on-demand service, Call 1-800-FAX-0899, follow the easy instructions, and recieve instant information on your FAX machine.
SUBJECT: Autism - Lovaas
Date: 96-04-02 20:18:53 edt FROM: RWalts
I would like to hear from parents who have tried or who are currently using the Lovaas method. Especially people who have had UCLA do their training. I am the mother of a three yr. old daughter with autism and I am currently researching the Lovaas program for my daughter. I want to hear pros and cons. Thanks! E-mail at rwalts.aol.com.
SUBJECT: Re:Sleep Aids
Date: 96-04-05 10:30:06 edt FROM: Starbase4
We have been using Melatonin with my son since last summer. It has been a lifesaver. He used to kick around in the bed for almost 2 hours every night. Now he is asleep in about half an hour. The pediatrician was actually fairly supportive about it. He is behaving much better because he is sleeping so much better. Any questions please contact me.
Starbase4
SUBJECT: Re:Help!
Date: 96-04-05 13:00:06 edt FROM: DWest49523
Am interested in finding The Me List (Parents discussion on Lovaas program and how it is working with their children). Was told it can be found on the Internet.
SUBJECT: Re:Help!
Date: 96-04-06 00:12:53 edt FROM: Whereit
One way of getting it is http://web.syr.edu/~jmwobus/autism Then go to
methods and treatments you will be able to get the the me group or called
recovery. I currently have a son using applied behavioral therapy. He's 4
1/2. will be happy to talk with you about his growth
SUBJECT: The Me List
Date: 96-04-06 14:47:50 edt FROM: DWest49523
Hi Whereit, Thanks for the info on gaining access to The Me List. I am new
at this but will try what you have suggested. Others have responded for
which I am grateful! I have a 6 year old son who is currently receiving
Lovaas therapy. Would like to hear more from you. Lisa
SUBJECT: The Me List
Date: 96-04-06 15:55:57 edt FROM: DWest49523
Betty, are you out there? I am unable to access the WWW. Also, I tried the E-mail address you gave me for the list administrator, and it was not applicable. ???? I am not sure what I am doing wrong. Could you help?
My son's Annual Review is also coming up. The district does not fund the
Lovaas program for us. However, he is included in the regular classroom with
a full-time aide. He receives speech, O.T., P.T., and Social Work. I am
planning on trying to get him more minutes of all of the above. I would also
like to have one of his therapists serve as an aide for him next year. He
will be in first grade. Remember, that you are your daughter's advocate, and
you need to push for whatever YOU feel she needs!!! I plan on having the
Psychologist who is supervising the therapy team at his Annual Review. Good
Luck! Lisa
SUBJECT: Miller Method
Date: 96-04-06 21:30:57 edt FROM: Slusar
I would like to know if anyone has any information about the MILLER METHOD.
I received a flyer for a workshop and would like to know more about it.
Thank you! Yvette
SUBJECT: Dolphin Therapy/Autism
Date: 96-04-08 00:59:36 edt FROM: CARLY B 80
I am looking for information on a therapy being used in Fla. to treat severely autistic children. It involves interaction with dolphins. Any information will be greatly appreciated. Thanks.
SUBJECT: RE: Battling the
Scholll Dis
Date: 96-04-08 22:53:34 edt FROM: DBrownsey
I am a Sp.Ed. teacher working with preschoolers who are using ABA . I have found incredible results using this model of teaching. But, what I haven't found is support from school districts. How can these children benefit (and hopefully recover) when CPSE members are not willing to educate themselves on this method of teaching? What sort of tactics are people using to convince schools that this method is the most beneficial?
SUBJECT: RE: Dolphin Therapy
Date: 96-04-08 23:07:47 edt FROM: DBrownsey
Carly
Unfortunatly there is documentation that supports dolphin therapy. ABA (applied behavior analysis) is the only documented and researched therapy that indicates true behavior changes in persons with autism.
SUBJECT: Re:RE:
Battling the Scholll
Date: 96-04-09 08:13:24 edt FROM: Bettybech
Hi,
I wish I had an answer for you on how we educate the school districts about the benefits of ABA. Have you checked out the Recovery Zone on the World Wide Web?
It's at:
http://web.syr.edu/~jmwobus/autism/
Under Methods, Treatments, Programs select Recovery Zone
(Sorry, I don't have the actual Recovery Zone address handy, but this route will get you there.)
You will find sections on IEPs, insurance, testimonials, all sorts of interesting information that you may want to pass along to the school district.
I am so happy to hear you are working with pre-schoolers using ABA. I wish you could work with my daughter!! I'm just setting up a home program for her (ABA).
If you need any info from me, feel free to E-mail me at bettybech@aol.com
Good luck,
Betty
Geneva, IL
SUBJECT: RE: Battling the School Dist
Date: 96-04-09 12:05:20 edt FROM: Way7SAC10
I hope that the parents, educators, and people with autism who post out here realize that there is NO one method, treatment, or intervention that works for all people with autism all the time. I would suggest that we all remember that the placebo works on 30% of that group all the time. And always be wary of the treatment, technique or intervention that ONLY works on the young child: the young child sees great "improvements" or "recovery" from age 3-6 with no extreme interventions, or any other interventions. And in the world of autism, let's be careful about encouraging "recovery". From what is known it is a lifelong condition, and from personal experience with our son (alomost 13), people with autism "improve" with age, even without extreme interventions. Perhaps we need to accept those differences, learn from others, and have a better outlook about what "life" is out here. Perhaps we need to "recover" from bad attitudes about diversity. What's wrong with having autism? Perhaps we need to change how society views people with autism, dispel the rumors and educate our communities? What do we say to the parents of the kids who don't "recover"? And how does extreme behavior modification affect a person later on in their life? Keep your head up out here.
Dennis Debbaudt
SUBJECT: Re:RE: Battling the School D
Date: 96-04-09 12:19:23 edt FROM: DMont13780
Let's hear it for common sense! For all those utilizing only one approach, there are many others you may be missing. The most important thing, I think, that a parent or educator can do to help children with autism, is to love and respect the child. Anyone who claims to know everything about the treatment of autism, or who claims a "cure", in my opinion, is not being respectful to the child or to the family. Not all educators lack sensitivity. Not all districts need to be battled.
Educator in California
SUBJECT: Lovass - Older Chidren
Date: 96-04-09 16:49:08 edt FROM: Slusar
I want to know if anyone knows of any research using ABA with children who
are school age - approximately 5 to 7 years of age. Could you please give me
some resources? Thank you! Yvette
SUBJECT: PDD - Lovass
Date: 96-04-09 16:52:27 edt FROM: Slusar
I would like information on ABA used with children diagnosed with PDD and how it affected development. Thank you.
SUBJECT: Re:Lovass Book
Date: 96-04-10 00:07:38 edt FROM: MAD39
Yes, strong rumor has it, that it is at the publisher as we speak and will be sent out mid-summer to those who have ordered and have waited these two years!!
SUBJECT: Re:RE: Battling the School D
Date: 96-04-10 09:16:42 edt FROM: Bettybech
Hello,
I agree that not all school districts need to be battled. I was confused by the part about "anyone who claims to know everything about the treatment of autism or claims to know a "cure"...." In reading through these last several messages I haven't seen any indication that one of us out here thinks they have all the answers.
I'm sure that's why we're all here in the autism folder. We are all searching for ways to make the lives of autistic individuals and the people who care about them just a little bit better.
I TOTALLY agree with your statement about loving and respecting people with autism. I hope that you don't mean that we somehow love them less because we are exploring every possible avenue of help for them.
I'm not saying ABA is the ONLY way. It's just A WAY. The National Institute of Health wrote that the condition of autism can be improved (not cured!) using many therapies, with varying degrees of success. They go on to report that behavioral therapy seems to hold the most promise at this time. And while intervention is most effective when started at a young age, people of all ages and ability levels profit from treatment.
I apologize if I gave the impression that ALL school districts need to be battled. I'm sure many of them are excellent. The point I was trying to make is that there is more than one way to educate these children and I wish MY school district would be more open to the various options.
SUBJECT: Re:RE: Battling the School D
Date: 96-04-14 10:29:33 edt FROM: TAK Book
I'm battling with the schooll my son is in now because they just found a teacher in February that thought compliance was an activity and chose not to do it. There are other questions I have that are too numerous to mention, but the big question I have is how do I find out about his credentials.
He doesn't have the knowledge or the capabilites to handle the class and there are only two kids in there. I'm really frustrated because now my son is trying to eat rocks on the playground and the teacher hasn't told me, I learned it from the other mom. I'm fixing to have a meeting with the teacher this week to ask all my questions. Please help.
Raye
SUBJECT: Re:RE: Battling the School D
Date: 96-04-14 18:40:56 edt FROM: DMont13780
Betty,
I did not mean to imply that any writers on the net feel that they have the "answers" in the battle to fight autism. My statement referred to some professionals who, in my opinion, sometimes lead families into believing that there is a "cure" for autism. Thank you for your statement saying that not all school districts need to be battled. Unfortunately, many times, the school district staff place themselves into a position of being "adversarial" rather than really listening to families, and sometimes need to be battled in order to facilitate change. As to being respectful and loving to children with autism, I would never presume to look at a child first through their disability and second through their "human-ness". All children, I believe, have the right to be children first.
Debbie in California
SUBJECT: RE: Credentials
Date: 96-04-15 10:10:43 edt FROM: Way7SAC10
To the parent concerned about the teachers credentials: I am the parent of a 12 year old boy w/autism, and a licensed PI in Michigan for the past 19 years. You need to ask the teacher where they obtained their degrees, and then call those institutions to verify the information. Every university has an office that will verify educational degrees. There is no cost for this other than your time and the expense of a phone call.
SUBJECT: Re:RE: Dolphin
Therapy
Date: 96-04-17 07:23:55 edt FROM: MEEPK
Not true, there are many other methods to teach children with autism. One method is not the cure for all kids. You should contact TEEACH from North Carolina for a more comprehensive look and perhaps more logical way of teaching both young and adolescents with autism. They present a more balanced and "sane" model that I believe is more respectful to individual differences.
SUBJECT: Re:RE: Battling the School D
Date: 96-04-17 20:01:13 edt FROM: CIAMPooh
To Tak Book,
It is easy if this teacher is in a public school. Teachers in public schools are public employees.
Ask the (be forceful if needed) Principal to have this teacher's employment application at the next meeting. Read and document what ever you need and then check it out.
SUBJECT: Autism
Date: 96-04-18 18:57:29 edt FROM: Jomaru1
i'm a pre-school handicapped teacher involved in a parent group. i'm looking for info to help parents of autistic children manage their child's behavior at home. i'm a first time user of the net and i would appreciate your input.
-Joan
SUBJECT: Re:Autism
Date: 96-04-18 22:46:30 edt FROM: Whereit
Does anyone out there know anything about Natural Language Paradigm? We are
currently doing ABA and this was suggested to us to help our son increase his
language. Please E-Mail me if you know anything-positive or negative-
about it. Whereit@Aol Thanks
SUBJECT: RE: autism
Date: 96-04-20 11:54:16 edt FROM: Way7SAC10
For the teacher looking for autism information & parent tips: Call 1-800-3-AUTISM and ask for their information package and the phone number of the nearest Autism Society of America chapter. This should be of great help to any parent.
SUBJECT: Help
Date: 96-04-21 09:53:07 edt FROM: IzzyVa
I was asked by a parent the Pfeiffer Treatment Institute. I think it is in Illinois?? Does anyone know anything about it??? Please e-mail me at IzzyVA if you know anything about it. Thanks?
SUBJECT: Re:Help Pfeiffer Treatment C
Date: 96-04-22 09:38:16 edt FROM: Bettybech
Hi,
Yes, the Pfeiffer Treatment Center is in Naperville, IL (just west and south of Chicago). I just attended a symposium sponsored by Pfeiffer last Friday (4/19). Their phone number is: (708) 505-0300.
Pfeiffer conducts about 100 lab tests on each patient (from hair, blood and urine samples) to determine if their body chemistry is "out of whack". An individual vitamin/nutrient therapy treatment plan is then created to help correct these deficiencies/elevations. It often takes several months for these vitamins to kick in. It's similar to the orthomolecular approach that Dr. Cott wrote about (can't remember the name of the book!)
I attended a break out session the Pfeiffer Staff gave on autism. It included several parents giving Pfeiffer's methods rave reviews. These children became more attentive and calm and were able to drastically cut or forego completely any medication. I know several other families who have tried Pfeiffer, but were unable to complete the program because their children had problems taking the vitamins. I should also add that the nurse from Pfeiffer said they will work with each family to find the best medium (pill, powder, liquid, capsule) for them.
One other thing that I found particularly impressive about Pfeiffer was the attitude of the staff. They stressed they are willing to work in conjunction with other types of therapies families are using (AIT, ABA - Lovaas...you name it!). A portion of the autism break out session was dedicated to an overview of MANY types of therapies available for people with autism. They even had forms to send away for a book that describes the many therapies available. This illustrated to me their genuine concern for helping people with autism.
Take care!
Betty
SUBJECT: Re:Autism - Lovaas
Date: 96-04-24 00:34:11 edt FROM: Nooowayyy
Have you read Let Me Hear your Voice? If not, please do!
SUBJECT: : Pseudonym
Date: 96-04-24 14:16:00 edt FROM: Way7SAC10
Anybody have a good answer as to why someone wouldn't use their real name when authoring a story or article?
Dennis Debbaudt
SUBJECT: Re:RE: Battling the Scholll Di
Date: 96-04-24 22:35:14 edt FROM: RKSD WITZ
I'm sure you're a dedicated professional, how do you know "school districts" aren't using methods(such as teech) that are effective or a combination of methods? Don't close your mind to one program, consider there may be children whose needs are met in different programs. The principles of ABA are good teaching and can be adapted depending on the child. If you become entrenched and are not willing to explore the possibilities that other schools may have valuable programs you're being unfair to some students. Is this your first experience or have you worked in many programs?
SUBJECT: Re::
Pseudonym
Date: 96-04-25 21:19:12 edt FROM: SusanS29
"Anybody have a good answer as to why someone wouldn't use their real name when authoring a story or article?
Dennis Debbaudt"
There's all sorts of reasons. Michael Crichton used a pseudonym when he was in medical school because he needed to be taken seriously in Medical School.
Sometimes people use a pen name because they're revealing personal information about themselves or their family.
There are lots of legitimate reasons.
Susan (a writer)
SUBJECT: temper tantrums
Date: 96-04-26 19:32:12 edt FROM: Cbug418
My son is 10yr. and Hyperlexic/autistic. He is very high functioning and is doing well in school being mainstreamed inthe 4th gr. w/indiv.aid. The problem I am experiencing is that he has started having temper tantrums.
They started in Dec. In Feb. I tool him to be tested at a speech and
language center and they said it was not behavior but his language. When he
was transferred out of the autistic program on his IEP it stated he only
needed speech/language on consultative basis. Well now he is receiving
direct services. But my gut feeling is that this is not language. He throws
himself on the floor and cries so severly that little blood vessels in his
face break and he also throws up from the intensity of his crying. I have
put him in his room, when he does this which is not often to not give him an
audience but that only makes it worse. It seems to me that he in kinda of a
rage. I ask him later if he can stop the tantrum and he says no. Now I
never had to go out of the school system for testing before this because I
was very happy with his services and school and his progress. But
now.....maybe he is starting puberty and his hormones ? Idon't know . I am
at a loss, Any suggestions? I'm thinking of calling the Pfeiffer Center. I
really want to get to the bottom of this before it gets worse and he gets
older. He has never displayed any tantrums before. Thanks
SUBJECT: Re:Lovaas
and speech
Date: 96-04-26 22:10:35 edt FROM: WDavis1357
HI,
I do not know of such an article, however, as the parent of an autistic child that was never supposed to speak, I do not trust Lovaas or his strategies. It is not possible to set predetermined limits for any child quite so easily. My child is now quite communicative (verbal), and in a regular ed. 4th grade classroom. In my own experience, I have developed a couple of great experts that I would be happy to share.
Leslie
SUBJECT: Re:Autism
Date: 96-04-26 22:12:49 edt FROM: WDavis1357
Your message was indeed posted.
Leslie at B Davis1357
SUBJECT: Re:temper tantrums
Date: 96-04-27 08:21:12 edt FROM: Bettybech
Hi,
I just went to a symposium about Pfeiffer last week. The whole time I was reading your post I was thinking "this sounds like the kind of behavior Pfeiffer has had really good results with". (I almost always think in grammatically incorrect phrases.) Then I read that you are considering going there! I think it's worth looking into. It's not cheap, but they said they will work with everyone on securing insurance coverage and/or payment plans.
Good luck.
Betty
bettybech@aol.com
SUBJECT: Re:temper tantrums
Date: 96-04-28 20:52:42 edt FROM: RKSD WITZ
Where is the Pfeiffer center and what is it about?
Thanks
SUBJECT: Re:temper
tantrums-Pfeiffer C.
Date: 96-04-28 22:19:14 edt FROM: Cbug418
The Pfeiffer Center is in Naperville, Illinois. I read an article in Chicago Parent magazine and I think they deal with chemical inbalances and vitamin deficiencies. I know that they test hair, urine and blood. I read that they deal alot with children who are on medications to wean them off. I didn't know that they deal with temper tantrums and behavior. I'll be calling them on Monday. I'll relay the information I receive. Also, Thanks for your response, Betty......
Cbug
SUBJECT: Peer Intigration
Date: 96-04-30 20:40:04 edt FROM: DBrownsey
I am about to have an annual meerting with the school disrtict. I understand they really attack the ABA model because initally it does not use peer integration. Anybody have any suggestions??
SUBJECT: Masters Degree Program: NY
Date: 96-05-01 16:54:40 edt FROM: Rein4cer
There is a program at Long Island University at C.W. Post campus in which you can earn a M.S. in Special Education with a concentration in autism. It is called Competencies in Autism for Special Educators (CASE). This program is excellent (I speak from personal experience as a graduate of the program), with spectacular guest speakers and cutting egde information. As a participant in this program you may elect not to take the comp. exam or do a thesis by opting to complete 46 credits. I would highly recommend this for anyone planning to work with children with autism or other severe disabilities, but it would be equally advantageous for a speechlanguage pathologist or someone planning to work with children with a wide range of disabilities. For further information, contact Dr. Dianne Berkell or Professor C. Leonard Davis at the Dept. of Special Education, LIU at C.W. Post Campus, Brookville, NY 11548, Attn.: CASE Program.
SUBJECT: resource room
vs sdc/lh
Date: 96-05-02 01:12:36 edt FROM: NPerez8119
My son Michael has mild autism with a speech & language disorder. Michael is 6 yrs old and is currently enrolled in a SDC LH since last September. The SCC teacher does not encourage maintstreaming for my son. My son enjoys the socialization with his regular peers when he is at lunch & recess. He is currently mainstreamed for 37% of his day. I am thinking of moving him to his home school and having him in regular class with the recourse room. I asked the SDC teacher what she thought about this change,she told me to have an IEP if I wanted to change his placement. She never told me what she thought about this change for my son. I need your help. Should I try this move to regular class!!! Michael's language is about at a 4 year old level!!
SUBJECT: Toys "R" Us Guides Available
Date: 96-05-02 14:13:10 edt FROM: ALauritzen
Toys "R" Us Project (#4)
The National Parent Network on Disabilities and Toys "R" Us, in an on-going effort to make shopping for appropriate toys for your children enjoyable, are going to continue their partnership in the production and distribution of the 4TH Guide for Differently-Abled Children.
Toys "R" Us is making available an even wider selection of toys, coded with ability symbols for easy identification. For those of you who received the first 3 guides, we believe this issue will be of greater value because improvements were made in direct response to the consumers for differently-abled children.
Once again, Toys "R" Us has evaluated the toys with children with disabilities in testing centers in the belief that ALL children should have the opportunity to select toys that will be fun, meet their needs and be useful for developmental growth.
We believe that as your children grow, many of you want to see what new toys are on the marked coded with ability symbols, and want an opportunity to have the guide mailed to your home when a new guide is available.
A very important component of this new guide is that it was created in part by parent suggestions from around the country, and now has a section to mail your comments directly back to the Toys "R" Us company.
We have established 3 methods of distribution.
OPTION 1 - You send your mailing labels to the NPND office in Washington, DC and they handle all the mailing process. The NPND will ensure the confidentiality of all mailing labels. This would require the minimum of effort on the part of your staff.
OPTION 2 - You can mail the catalogs from your own offices or mailing house. This method is somewhat more labor intensive for you. If you are doing the mailing, remember third class FOR-PROFIT is the postal method to use. We will enclose the correct procedures for everyone who needs them with you catalogs. However, there will be reimbursement for your mailing effort, in a timely manner. There will be a revision of reimbursement procedures. The NPND ensures that all groups, regardless of your mailing process, will be reimbursed for the entire guide mailing effort upon completion of the project and the submission of reimbursement forms and receipts.
OPTION 3 - This is just a simple request for additional Toy Guides for your office, conferences, parents, training's or friends.
THE DETAILS OF THIS MAILING, REGARDLESS OF THE METHOD YOUR GROUP CHOOSES,
REQUIRES AN IMPORTANT FIRST STEP - A COMMITMENT TO MAIL THE AUTUMN TOY GUIDE
FOR DIFFERENTLY-ABLED CHILDREN, A DECISION TO PARTICIPATE IN AN EFFORT THAT HAS RECEIVED NATIONAL ACCLAIM.
To make your request, there are 3 ways: PHONE, FAX, E-MAIL. or MAIL.
We need to know how many Guides Toys "R" Us should print, so we would appreciate if you would REPLY BY MAY 13, 1996. The first 3 mailings reached over 1,700,000 homes.
Please indicate:
How many Guides you would like to have?
What method you prefer for mailing.
Toy Guides will be mailed from the Virginia mail shop and the offices that prefer to mail themselves, no later than the week of September 19.
Contact Jo Ann Egypt at the NPND office. (703)684-6763 -phone;
(703)836-1232-fax; or NPND@cs.com - e-mail; or National Parent Network on Disabilities, 1727 King Street, Suite 305, Alexandria, VA 22314.
Please make copies of this announcement and share it with other people and groups that you think would benefit from the Guide.
Toys "R" Us has been very supportive of the efforts of NPND. We are continuing with this endeavor because we want to provide every possible opportunity for parent leaders nationwide to serve all families and children with the most current information and supportive services available.
If you have any suggestion for improving the directions, please fax them to the NPND, (703)836-1232, so we can continue to improve our ability to serve you.
Thank you .
Joanne Butts, President, NPND
Patricia McGill Smith, Executive Director, NPND
SUBJECT: Re:resource room vs sdc/lh
Date: 96-05-02 21:35:02 edt FROM: Cbug418
If you think he willdo better at your home school why not try it. Have the IEP and see what they recommend. If they say no to the transfer, ask for more time in the regular class on a trial basis. Increasing the time on the basis of his successes. If he is speaking on a 4yr old level and he is 6 I don't feel it is a big gap. What does the counselor say? Are the children in his sdc/lh class social? My opinion has always been how is my child suppose to learn social and classroom behavior if he is not exposed to it. By the way my son is Hyperlexic/autistic and is in his home school transferred from the autistic program at another school. What kind of relationship do you have with his teacher ?
SUBJECT: Great Adventure
Date: 96-05-04 12:26:31 edt FROM: Way7SAC10
Janice Adams, author of three books on PDD & Autism & at work on her fourth with the help of a Trillium Grant, teacher, artist & mother of son w/autism, will speak about about practical approaches for students with autism at the Annual Meeting of the Wayne County Society for Autistic Citizens (Way/SAC)
Friday May 10th at 7:00 PM in Livonia Michigan. Parents & professionals will
come away with a better knowledge about their loved one's, and useful,
practical tips and advice. Call 313-464-8831 for information about this 2
hour presentation. Way/SAC does not charge admission to their informative
meetings. Janice's books will be available
SUBJECT: RE: Relocating NC or SC
Date: 96-05-05 19:13:07 edt FROM: DeborahMNG
We are considering relocating to North Carolina or South Carolina and would like information about special ed. and the availability of state govt' benefits in either state. We currently live in Louisiana, which has very poor benefits. Please e-mail Deborah at DeborahMNG.
Thanks, Deborah and Rene Gonzales
SUBJECT: Ext sch yr/options
Date: 96-05-05 19:40:54 edt FROM: Huns4
Hi, I'm Renee, new to this area (also new to internet). Trying to get info from people re: extended school year. Our district has offered my 7 year old son, Cory (moderate/severely autistic/pdd) a 4 week program, M-Th, 8am to 12 with other special ed students in the district. I have asked for an additional 2 weeks, M-F, 9-4 at a local day-camp with non-disabled peers, but need the school to provide an aide for him (still incontinent, plus behavioral/redirectional needs). The district says no, and that i should schedule a conciliation conference. My team agrees the camp would be best. Anyone been to a conciliation conference re: ESY, how did it go, what or who do i need with me (have statements from private OT, Sp and Psychologist) and how scary are these things? Last year our home school had a reg. ed summer program, so we were able to taylor-make a program for Cory. This year, the only reg. ed program is another neighboring school where he would be bussed with the other sp. ed children. My son is about the oldest in the district with this severe a disability, so any input will be passed along to those in similar situations as other children get older. This may be a problem for the district. I work part-time at a law firm, so would be interested in legal precedents also. Since i'm a newby, i printed 40+ pages last night, all from sp. ed teachers vs. (yes seriously) reg. ed teachers. any help asap would be appreciated, since i need to call the school's sp. ed dept. head tomorrow re: conciliation. private email at Huns4.aol.com. THANKS MUCH!!!
SUBJECT: Re: recovery room
Date: 96-05-08 22:13:54 edt FROM: Santina 13
Hello, I am a speech-language pathologist. I help faciliate a support group
for parents of children with PDD/Autism. At tonite's meeting a parent told
me of a place on AOL that is called the recovery room and that is has a good
source of information on autism. I am new to AOL and am not sure where to
find it? Can anyone help me? Please e-mail me. Thanks. Santina13
SUBJECT: TV
show 5/8/96
Date: 96-05-09 17:15:23 edt FROM: Cbug418
Did anyone else catch the Cathy Lee Gifford program about miracle babies last night on channel 2 with the autistic boy whos' mother brought him out by doing intense physical therapy and breathing exercizes and now he is supposed to be normal? Everything I ever read has always stated that it doesn't go away. This method is used by a treatment center in Philadelphia? There is a book by a Dr. Glen Doman. Anyone have any information on this Dr.? Also I have a behavioral problem with my son with rages/temper tantrums so I contacted a behavior management at a hospital to send a therapist to my home any information on what to expect I would appreciate it. Thanks CBug418. Please e-mail me. Thanks again!
SUBJECT: Re:TV show 5/8/96
Date: 96-05-09 21:01:43 edt FROM: BritSkye
<<Did anyone else catch the Cathy Lee Gifford program about miracle babies
last night on channel 2 with the autistic boy whos' mother brought him out by
doing intense physical therapy and breathing exercizes and now he is supposed
to be normal? Everything I ever read has always stated that it doesn't go
away. This method is used by a treatment center in Philadelphia? There is a
book by a Dr. Glen Doman. Anyone have any information on this Dr.?>>
yes... i was flipping thru channels and found it purely by accident, but i'm glad i did! it was a touching story, and very interesting...but i'm wondering if there's more to it than what they told us...for instance, the possibility that bronson was never truly autistic in the first place? everything i've read, too, says there's no proven cure for autism. on the other hand, i think it's important to remain positive and open to ideas that there *could possibly* be a cure either now or in the future. ruling the few "miracle stories" out as lies wouldn't get us very far. so, although i'm not holding my breath, i'm open to the idea of it. but no, i don't know a thing about the doctor or his treatment center.
Britta
SUBJECT: Marshall University
Date: 96-05-09 21:03:40 edt FROM: BBQUILTS
I am hunting for a lady I had classes with at Marshall University. She was in the education classes. Her husband was with the security department at Marshall. She has an autistic son. I lost contact with her when I moved away.
SUBJECT: Re:TV show 5/8/96
Date: 96-05-09 21:46:16 edt FROM: JSchutzer
This is from the Institue for Human Potential (or something close to that) in Philly. Dr. Doman has a book about it-Treating your Brian Injured Child (again, or close to that). The problem that I have been told is that the treatment is incredibly time consuming and very specific. William Christopher's (from MASH) son underwent the treatment. You can read about it in his book Mixed Blessings. From what I have read, Christopher was not overwhelming complimentary about this. Also, there is a book by a mom whose son (I believe) has CP that used the treatment called "No Time For Jello".
She states that the therapy was so time consuming that it left her (any
guesses) no time even to make jello. Much of the therapy is based on
patterning-taking the body through the developmental stages that it
missed. I don't know anyone who's tried it and I haven't read much about it
-- just heard a lot of anecdotal info. Personally, if you want to talk recovery, read "Let me hear your voice" and look at Lovaas, IMHO.
Jennifer
SUBJECT: Re: recovery room
Date: 96-05-09 21:48:07 edt FROM: JSchutzer
I think you are referring to the recovery zone-a web page that covers many areas of autism and especially focuses on Lovaas treatment. Try http:/pages.prodigy.com/dporcari/recovery_zone.html. You can use this page to access some others, also.
Jennifer
SUBJECT: Behavioral problem
Date: 96-05-09 21:51:20 edt FROM: JSchutzer
Chances are they will tell you to put the behavior on extinction. That means ignoring it totally every time it occurs and reinforcing (praising) him when it doesn't. It's not as easy as it sounds because you need to be really consistent and usually the behavior increases before it decreases. Usually it takes about 1 week to see results, 2 weeks to extinquish. Even if they don't suggest, you might try it if what they suggest doesn't work.
Jennifer
SUBJECT: my 2 yr old cousin...
Date: 96-05-10 22:18:48 edt FROM: BritSkye
hello! my name is britta, and i'm 17. i could really use some advice, and would appreciate any and all replies!!! i'm really worried and confused about my cousin shannon. she turns 2 on may 27. i don't spend a *lot* of time with her, but just the short times i've been with her have been enough to tell me there's something un-typical about her. (i refuse to say "wrong".) first of all, she's constantly on medication. almost every single day. she sneezes, she gets baby tylenol. this is like a vicious circle, because so much medicine makes her immune system weak, but when you're sick, you need the medicine to fight off the sickness. she has had a LOT of ear infections throughout her life, and may have to have tubes put in her ears. when she was younger, she was very understimulated and was plunked down in front of the tv for hours on end. she doesn't have any books and doesn't get read to. (the books my family and i give as presents mysteriously disappear). but most of all, something about her hearing is strange. she came over to our house with her mom, and stayed for about an hour. they just left a few minutes ago. the time shannon was here was, to my mother and i, "testing time." i had been so eager to see her again to see how she was doing!! the first thing my mom did was to wait till she had her back turned then clap really loud. shannon turned towards the noise. as we walked, holding her hands, mom exclaimed excitedly, "shannon, i looove your slippers! shannon, where are your slippers?!" but shannon gave no indication she even heard. downstairs, shannon saw my kitty by the door and went over to pat it. i said, "shannon, that's the kitty! where's the kitty?" but she didn't even look at me. the cat started to meow, and shannon said "mow, mow". oh-another thing. she babbles unintelligbly a lot, and can say "hi" and "bye" i think, but no real words. funny, cuz the last time i was here she would point and squeal "keety!!" but this time she wouldn't say even that. in the living room, she was playing with the piano keys, and mom and i were knocking ourselves out going "shannon! shannon, look! shannon, c'mere a minute!" loudly, but she gave no indication of hearing us. then mom suddenly said "PSSST!" and shannon turned around and laughed and laughed! and most interesting of all... i was crouched down next to shannon in the kitchen while she fiddled with the knick knacks on our shelf. she was facing the wall. mom came up and, bringing her hands within six inches of shannon's head, clapped extremely loud and fast repeatedly. shannon didn't even flinch. she turned at about clap number 6. then, mom took a cover to a pot, and bringing it up high, let it drop with a CLANG onto the linoleum. shannon jumped a little, and turned to look at it. i was half expecting her to be scared of such a loud noise like most 2 year olds, but she just giggled. so, it's safe to say she's NOT deaf, but her hearing is not typical, either. it's almost like she has...selective hearing or something. about one fourth of the time she'd respond, but most of the time she didn't. she seemed to respond to a lot of *sounds*, but not words. sometimes she'd turn around to hear her name, other times she wouldn't.
[2 b continued]
SUBJECT: part 2
Date: 96-05-10 22:19:11 edt FROM: BritSkye
at one point i said "shannon, come here!" and had to say it a *lot*, because she wasn't coming over. her mother casually said "oh, is she ignoring you? she does that to me *all* the time." hmmm. but when i motioned with my arms, 'come here', she did. i noticed that her mother uses a lot of gestures-like puckering her lips for "give me a kiss" or patting her head for "fix your hat". i am totally fascinated with autism and even wondered if shannon had some form of autism or other PDD... then again, i see autistic signs in *everyone* because i think about it so much... nonetheless, i was looking for "autistic symptoms". shannon didn't seem to care who she was with; she'd wander around the house with whoever was available. then again, she could just be a non-shy kid. she did a lot of hand-leading..ie, pulling my hand over to an object she wanted, or using my hand to push a button. she seemed to resist physical contact-i mean, she'd pull my hand when she needed something or have me lift her up to places she wanted to go-but she's squirm out of my reach when possible. then again, she could have just been too busy exploring to have time for that. she doesn't look people in the eye very much. i put my head *right next* to hers, and she would barely glance at me. sometimes saying "shannon" would warrant a quick glance. although she didn't like to just plain be held, she loves to be bounced and tickled, like a lot of autistic kids. but on the OTHER hand.... she doesn't self stim. she *does* respond some to words, she *does* babble, if not coherently, she *did* play "appropriately" with toys...you know, putting the bottle to the doll's mouth... she *was* curious, active, and exloring...smiling and laughing...
there's just something odd about the whole thing. do you have any suggestions or ideas? i really want to help her if i can.
i'm sorry this was so long; thanx for listening!!
Britta
SUBJECT: Re: questions?child
Date: 96-05-11 19:31:28 edt FROM: Kaseyy
Hi,
I worked with a little boy a lot like the child Britta described. He had been labeled autistic, but later discovered he was hearing next to nothing due to repeated ear infections. He got tubes in his ears, and got his infections, etc, under control and the autistic like symptoms disappeared. He began to speak, and is developing normally now except for some residual articulation problems.
Please, see if this child could see an ENT (ear, nose, throat). For sure, you
want to rule out hearing problems; you can't develop language very easily if
you don't hear. Good luck. kaseyy
SUBJECT: 47% Lovaas
Date: 96-05-12 21:16:36 edt FROM: BRICKPOSSE
Someone on the autism chat asked me to forward to them articles showing the
47% mainstreamed rate. I lost that person's snail mail address and have the
papers ready to send. I feel awful for losing it and apologize, please
e-mail me at brickposse@aol.com. I'm not sure I'll be able to reach chat
room again soon. Bobbie
SUBJECT: landau kleffner
Date: 96-05-13 22:15:33 edt FROM: Mom424
I am trying to find information for a friend....She wants to get in contact with a lady named Kathy Voltz. Ms. Voltz wrote an article called T.J.'s Triumph in the 8-8-95 issue of Woman's Day Magazine. Can anybody help??
She is also looking for the best place to have her 5 year old son tested for
Landau-Kleffner Syndrome. Any information regarding doctors would be greatly
appreciated. mom424
SUBJECT: Writing Better IEPs
Date: 96-05-13 22:33:50 edt FROM: IzzyVa
I heard a great talk by Barbara Bateman about how to write IEPs. She is a
lawyer with a doctorate in Special Education and she gave really practical
ideas about what you can do and how to do it. She has also written a book
called: Better IEPs: how to develop legally correct and educationally useful
programs. I have ordered it and if it is half as good as her talk, it will
be great. It is available through a publishing house in Colorado called
SOPRIS WEST. They have an 800 number. Don't know if allowed to post it or
not, but you can e-mail me if you like
Chris
SUBJECT: Re:my 2 yr old cousin...
Date: 96-05-14 20:48:17 edt FROM: Cbug418
Although my son is autistic, I did experience some of the symptoms you described with my daughter and she had to have tubes placed in her ears. The wax was so thick it was holding her ear drum preventing it from vibrating.
She was hearing certain levels of sounds(high pitched). We used to yell to
get her attention. I strong;ly suggest seeing an eye, ear , nose doctor (not
ped. because she needs extensive hearing tests that a ped cannot give). any
? write me
CBug418
SUBJECT: Re:Behavioral problem
Date: 96-05-16 01:22:55 edt FROM: MStueckrat
I have a 6-year old son high funtioning son with autism. Next year he will be going to regular first grade class. However he does have some behavior problems and needs more social interaction.
He has been put on some new medication "Paxil". Has anyone had any luck with this medication. Also does anyone have any suggestions concering social interaction in a first grade setting so we can write a correct IEP for his up coming school year. This will be the schools first experience with autism. They seem slow in developing ideas for the upcoming school year and would rather wait until the school year beings. However my wife and I believe they must start know to have a positive impact with my son. Thanks! Plaese anyone respond with info.
SUBJECT: autism & communication
Date: 96-05-16 20:07:38 edt FROM: SPED4ALL
I'm still looking for info on how to stop the repetitive behaviors of a 17 yr. old w/autism. The repetitve behs. have escalated to the point that he screams while repeating the same phrase/ kicks doors or walls/ jabbers/ and last week kicked 2 students and ME! As we look at IEP goals for next yr. I would like to structure better comm. for him. SLP wants to drop him from speech-yet he has no functional mode of communication. He can't communicate choices or frustration (I'd kick too). HELP!!!! Is there a simple, functional comm. technique that can be introduced to a young man of this age that might be beneficial to everyone? He has a facilitated communicator---I should say, his SLP has the FC. I'm aware that it is there. It hasn't been used in 2 yrs. and never used at home. I not very optismistic at this point. I'd like to kick someone too. =) THANKS, please e-mail directly---I VERY CARRING teacher who is running out of ideas.
SUBJECT: Ritalin
Date: 96-05-16 21:59:10 edt FROM: Aseddon
Our neurologist has suggested ritalin for our six-year old son diagnosed w/ PDD/mild autism. I'd like to hear about any experience other parents (or teachers) have had w/ the use of ritalin in the treatment of autism. Pls. e-mail me or post here. Thanks.
SUBJECT: TV Show
Date: 96-05-17 08:18:29 edt FROM: DBrownsey
It's Funny, I just posted a message in the Down Syndrome area about Glenn Dooman's program. (before the show was aired) I work with many types of children. One child in particular- did a home based ABA program with progress ( but nothing great). Now, she is doing the program from Phili. I see her often and even volunteer as a patterner. Her mother is teaching her Italian, time, reading and much more with incredible success. I also do this program with two children who have Down Syndrome ( I work with the family) . One 14 month old is reading and doing things my 3 year old son is not. Yes, it is the most time consuming program I have ever seen. But, how could not do it once you know about it.
SUBJECT: Re:landau kleffner
Date: 96-05-17 13:30:37 edt FROM: BRICKPOSSE
Contact Thomas Jefferson Hospital at 1-800-Jeff-Now and they will send a packet out with information and evaluation to see if child is a candidate.
SUBJECT: Autistic/Colorado
Date: 96-05-17 13:33:08 edt FROM: BRICKPOSSE
Have a friend moving to Colorado. Her son use to be in my daughters class, 4 hours of discrete trials, speech every day 20 min sessions, a partial time in a regular preschool. What are her chances in Colorado. She called ahead and they stated it is not a regulated state like N.J. is? Any information please e-mail.
SUBJECT: Nephew is Autistic?
Date: 96-05-17 14:14:58 edt FROM: Steffoush
My husband has a nephew who will be 4 in October. We think he may be
autistic. He does not relate well with "People" But give him a Thomas the
Train Video or another kind of video and he's in his own little magical
world. He can act out all the scenes from the videos but can't put real
sentences together on his won. Except the basic "Mommie go, Mommie come,
Mommie cheerio" 90% of the time he will totallaly ignore you and never look
you in the eye. He does like it if you chase him around the house. If we
talk to him and say maybe "Brett where is the bird?" He will mimic and say
"Brett where is the bird" 95% of the time he is mimicing. You can ask him a
ton of times to come or if he's hungry etc...and he does not hear you. My
sister in law clapped right by his ear once and he didn't flinch. His mom
said "Oh he knows your doing it and chooses not to hear you" His mom also
didn't take him to his 3 year checkup because he hates going to the doctor
and would put up "Too Much of a fuss" we think his parents (Hubbys sister and
brother in law) are in denial. She won't put him in a preschool and he has
never really played with any other kids. He actually dosen't "play with"
other kids. He will be in the backyard with his 3-4 cousins and be in his
own world. He does not talk to them except for 1-2 words. I know several
other 3 1/2 year olds who are putting full on sentences together and
interacting well with other kiddies. So from what my medical books say it
sounds like he has it but I wanted to post and see if any of this sounds
familer to any of you. I have a 16 month old myself and believe his parents
are doing him a huge injustice for his future. any hints or advice out
there. ? You can post here or e-mail me at Steffoush@aol.com. Thanks so much
for reading this. Stephanie
SUBJECT: Re:Nephew is Autistic?
Date: 96-05-19 11:28:35 edt FROM: TLVAIL
I think it's very difficulty for many parents to face the fact that their child has difficulties. Especially when they her Autism because it carries such a lifelong connotation. It sounds like the parents are aware there's something wrong but are afraid to deal with it. Maybe just suggesting they get a communication evaluation would be a place to start. This kiddo may or may not be Autistic, but he definitly has a communication problem. That's sometimes easier for a parent to deal with first. The professional who performs the Speech/Language eval. may be able to pursuade the parents to get other evals conducted. I work with a 3 yr. old whom was brought to be by his parents because he wasn't talking. They had a full eval done but were so upset by the results that they won't share them with anyone- even me. They insist their child just has a speech problem. He's highly echolalic- little functional communication- limited eye contact-extremely short attention span and has a real hard time with transitions. I'm working with him for an hr- 2 times a week- on a 5 min. interval schedule. I have pictures of each task and set a timer when we start. "Time for ____". is said at the beginning of each segment and "I'm finished" at the end (including signs) Tasks consist of puppet time, when we script self help tasks, naming pictures, clay, coloring, cutting (all scripted) and computer activities- Any comments/help would be appreciated. I know he could get more with the proper diagnosis and specialists but the parents are just not ready to accept- until then, I want to do what's best for him.
SUBJECT: Acceptance
Date: 96-05-19 12:16:40 edt FROM: Way7SAC10
The parents better get with the acceptance and now. Every child can sense positive & negative attitudes in their parents. Autism can be dealt with, the parents lack of acceptance is the bigger problem.
SUBJECT: Re:Magnet Pads
Date: 96-05-22 00:14:51 edt FROM: AYoung816
I would like to know what kind of magnet pads they are, and where you heard
about them and how to find out more about this. What all is it supposed to
help
SUBJECT: Magnet
Date: 96-05-22 18:49:05 edt FROM: Way7SAC10
Supposed to produce deeper, more comfortable sleep. Email & will provide phone number.
SUBJECT: Re:Peer Intigration
Date: 96-05-23 13:54:20 edt FROM: HSJORDAN
ABA provides a child with the tools he/she needs to be ready for peer integration. Use the argument that it is a prerequisite for typical peer exposure. My son wouldn't have even noticed another child until he had some basic skills such as eye contact, self-control of his stimming, and speech. Now he pays attention to other kids and has some tools to interact and learn from peers!! ABA and typical peer modeling are two completely different styles of learning and you might argue that your child is not ready for the latter. Perhaps I have responded too late, but good luck with your meeting.
SUBJECT: Asberger syndrome:any info?
Date: 96-05-23 22:13:21 edt FROM: AGKMAK1
My mom was looking for any info on this form of Autism. Can any one help?
SUBJECT: Re: OT Evaluation
Date: 96-05-24 19:11:34 edt FROM: Spllngirl
I have an IEP meeting for my 4 year old on Wednesday. He has been diagnosed as being mild-to moderate mentally retarded with autististic tendacies. He is non-verbal and has many self-stimulatory behaviors.
Could anyone give me some hints has to some realistic IEP goals?
Please note that we are very new to special ed as my son (actually stepson) was just diagnosed in Sept. 1995. (this was due to the fact that his natural mother denied that there were any problems). I just discovered this forum at this is great!!
Please post any responses here or E-mail me at Spllngirl@AOL.com.
Thank you sooo Much!
SUBJECT: High School Autism
Date: 96-05-25 10:44:34 edt FROM: MRupp10172
I teach 4 high school aged autistic students. There are very low functioning. 2 are non-verbal and have no real means of communicating (they don't sign or use FC). The other two do talk, but only echolalia. I know school's almost out, but would like some ideas for next year. We are tired and bored of the workjobs we have. I would love some new ideas. I would also like to set up a penpal situation with anyone else who teaches low functioning high school autistic students. I don't have anyone who truly understands what I go through in a day. There are no other classes in my district that are just like mine. Please respond via E-mail to MRupp10172 or post a message. Thanks!
SUBJECT: Re:Autistic/Colorado
Date: 96-05-27 19:19:18 edt FROM: ESSIG AE
Hi! Where in CO is your friend moving? I teach autistic, etc. children in a developmental preschool in CO. The services children get depend on the school districts. It varies alot. I used to teach in NY where children got alot of programming. Children in CO get less during preschool years. My kids get 10 hours per week of programming, that includes speech, OT, PT, whatever they need after they are evaluated by Child Find in the school district.
Is your friend confident about what her child needs? That will help when she talks to her school district.
Good Luck. Ann
SUBJECT: Re:Autistic/Colorado
Date: 96-05-28 08:51:22 edt FROM: BRICKPOSSE
She is moving to Avon, Co. She just fought a big battle to get lots of services here in N.J. She knows her rights very well, although she's been told by administration in Co. that she is not entitled to as much out there. This little boy is so high-functioning, I'm afraid without all he was receiving here he will get lost in the system. His receptive language is beautiful. He learns so quickly, next year he will be five and will all the help now I'm sure he could go to a regular kindergarten, perhaps with a communication device.
SUBJECT: Re: OT Evaluation
Date: 96-05-28 13:11:05 edt FROM: HSJORDAN
There are simple communication goals that could be worked on with this four year old. Teaching him to sign more, help, finished are a good start. What about toilet training? How about teaching him to play appropriately with one or two toys?? There are several other easy programs to start with a newly diagnosed child. Check in a Lovaas teaching guide or the back of Let Me Hear Your Voice by Catherine Maurice. I would be glad to give you more details about simple programs for preschoolers if you're interested.
SUBJECT: Re:HELP:
Teacher needs info.
Date: 96-05-30 10:37:39 edt FROM: C Lion136
Our child experienced some problems at school with vomiting his lunch. All methods were tried and failed. Since we were not having eating problems at home, I suggested the teacher bring his tray to the classroom and allow him to eat while watching a video. This solved the problem because it allowed him to relax and not focus on eating. It also changed his environment by eliminating cafeteria noise and food odors, etc. I have learned from my child that his behavior, however bizarre it may seem, is his way of communicating. When we are able to discern what he's "telling" us, a solution can usually be found. Hope this helps!
SUBJECT: Re:PDD
Date: 96-05-30 10:52:07 edt FROM: C Lion136
Our child was diagnosed with PDD at the age of six. At age four our family doctor referred him to our parish pupil appraisal team for evaluation because his speech was delayed. Their evaluation determined he was functioning on an eighteen month old level. He attended our public school Pre-school Non-categorical Handicapped class at age five. The teacher recommended we have him evaluated by professionals. We first did a neurological work-up to rule out tumor or brain damage. We saw a pediatric allergist. We took him to two different university medical centers where he was examined by a team of doctors. He has seen two different pediatric psychiatrists. He was under the care of a pediatric neurologist for seven years. She told us at his last check-up that he is doing so well that she doesn't need to see him again except to keep in touch. He takes no medication. Our main concern has been and is education. Begin with your family doctor, but listen to your instincts also. You know your child better than anyone else. If you suspect there is a problem, the earlier you start in intervention program, the better your child will be. Good luck. Let me hear from you.
C Lion136@aol.com
SUBJECT: Re:landau kleffner
Date: 96-05-30 20:13:59 edt FROM: Frogguy7
Mom424:
I'm working with parents who have very recently had their child tested for L-K. Came out positive. If you live around Minneapolis-St.Paul, e-mail me and I'll get the names of at least 2 doctors in this area. Good luck.
Mary at Frogguy 7@ aol.com
SUBJECT: PDD: Inclusion
Date: 96-05-30 22:15:40 edt FROM: Ljrhart
Question? Student I work with (9yrs going to 4th grade) has been fully included in grades 1,2,&3. Reading Recog a strength..beginning to initiate verbal interactions with peers.(if he wants their snack). Has made little real academic progress..still unable to evaluate due to lack of consistent responses. Have tried multiple choice format, point to pictures..may get one correct response but attention span is extremely short. Needs prompts to complete most tasks (bathroom, read the sentence, hang up jacket,...anything!!) Have been exposing him to all areas of reg curriculum...Mom feels he knows more than he can show (I'm not sure anymore). Dad wants an intensive academic summer school program to "catch him up to his peers". What can we do in an inclusive environment short of a pullout program for basic academics? Which is better...increasing socialization skills(coming along nicely)..or individual intense academic training? Need a clear direction..parents waffle...inclusion..no..academics. no... Not sure how to accomodate both? What would you recommend for and Extended School program for this child...YMCA summer day camp (socialization) or indiividual academic program for math skill? Will academic skills be more likely to accelerate when communication reaches reliable level? Ideas...comments?
SUBJECT:
Re: Asberger syndrome:any inf
Date: 96-05-30 22:58:32 edt FROM: CharLaw
I believe you are talking about Aspergers syndrome. Its very similar to Autism. Usually higher functioning. Outstanding in some areas. Kind of like 'Rain Man'. With Aspergers there is no significant language delay.
SUBJECT:
Re: Ritalin
Date: 96-05-30 23:03:33 edt FROM: CharLaw
I am an AI para. Several AI in our county are on Ritalin. Those that are on it, we see better attention or ability to consentrate, more able to follow 'the rules', less behavior problems, and higher accademics.
SUBJECT: Re:Ritalin
Date: 96-05-31 21:01:18 edt FROM: SusanS29
CharLaw it's possible and even fairly common for children with Autism to also have Attention Deficit Disorder.
Any time ADD is combined with another disability-especially something as serious as Autism-I think it's very important to treat the ADD very aggressively, since its effects are so pervasive and invasive-they can directly interfere with all other attempts at therapy or remediation for the other difficulties.
There's no reason to think Ritalin (or one of the many other meds used with ADD) would work on the Autism directly, though.
SUBJECT: lovass
Date: 96-06-01 15:18:56 edt FROM: HOCH101
Can anyone explain what Lovass is? What is the philosophy? What behaviors does it target?
How does the "trainer" interact with the child? Any information would be helpful!!!
Thank You!
SUBJECT:
Re: autism & communication
Date: 96-06-01 21:51:01 edt FROM: DazPar
Look for some of Horners work on Functional Communcation. All Behavior is a
form of Communcation. You must teach him to gain attention or help
appropriately. You can't assume he knows how to positively get your
attention or a peers attention or ask for help. Donnellan, Durand are other
author who may be helpful look in University collections
SUBJECT: Re:PDD
Date: 96-06-01 22:51:57 edt FROM: CDIH
Most children are diagnosed by the time they are 2 or 3. A whole spectrum of tests need to be completed (the ones you mentioned) and if you request it- occupational therapy speech etc.....
Neurological tests are not often given because we don't know too much about how it effects the brain but it may be done to rule other things out.
SUBJECT:
Re: PDD: Inclusion
Date: 96-06-02 00:11:19 edt FROM: TLVAIL
I work with a student in a very similar situation- Up to 2nd gr. he was fine with full inclusion but in 3rd gr. where the information/ requirements became more abstract in nature, he wasn't able to keep up in the content areas. We are now giving him "Resource" with the AU teacher 2 hrs./day where he is taught in a more structured manner. He still is in the regular class the majority of the day. We are doing speech/language therapy in the class to work on scripting social situations- It's worked out well! He's making acadamic gains and improving his social skills. I personally don't feel either should be neglected for the sake of the other.
SUBJECT:
Re: Autistic/Colorado
Date: 96-06-02 13:11:03 edt FROM: ESSIG AE
I don't know anything about Avon, CO. If she knows her rights, she'll know to talk about "appropriate" education and "least restrictive environment". The bottom line is, CO doesn't give what other states give. Instead of CO trying to give more services, other states are cutting back!! I would suggest that she make sure the IEP is carefully written so that the goals and objectives are extremely clear and measurable! I'm sure she will monitor her son's progress. As soon as she feels the objectives are not being met, she should talk to the teacher, therapists, principal, etc. Many of the families of my "kids" opt to have people come to their house to supplement what the school does (teachers, therapists, college students) so that their kids keep progressing.
Best of luck!!
SUBJECT: curriculum
Date: 96-06-02 21:08:56 edt FROM: Chazbern
I'm looking for the title of a curriculm manuel. I believe it is North Carolina something. Its for working with young autistic children. I checked the Pro-Ed catalog and can't find anything listed. Can anyone help?
SUBJECT:
Re: lovass
Date: 96-06-02 21:13:37 edt FROM: JSchutzer
Lovaas is an intensive, one on one, intervention that has been shown effective in teaching many autistic children. Also called behavior modification and ABA (applied behavior analysis) it is based on teaching the child to attend to the task and then respond (by pointing, touching, or verbally) over and over again. The repetition is continued until the child has mastered the task and then they move on to the next level. You might ask the child to point to a picture of an apple, then to point to the pic when there is also a picture of a cup on the table (so you know they can discriminate) then to match a pic to a pic then move to the real object and do it all again and then mix the two (not the greatest example, but all I can think of off the top of my head). It is time consuming and can be expensive if you can't get funding but for many parents (myself included) it is wonderful.
If you want more details and where to get further info, you can email me directly.
SUBJECT: Re:Syndrome that look like A
Date: 96-06-02 22:10:19 edt FROM: User422376
Not sure of the name of the syndrome. heard the report though and vitamin B6 was the "cure?"
Hope this message helps.
SUBJECT: Re:Autism
Date: 96-06-02 22:15:10 edt FROM: User422376
PDD is the new label for "autism under the "autistic spectrum" as I've been told. Its only difference being that in comparision to severe autism ( head banging, etc..,) PDD is less severe. Children with PDD (as I've been told by a friend who has an autistic son and in various conferences I've attended) can learn to function in today's society if given proper early intervention. Her son has a mild case of autism - he's 5. He's just learning to speak in sentences. There are many books on autism. Keep reading!
SUBJECT:
Re: Autistic Tendancies?
Date: 96-06-02 22:18:09 edt FROM: User422376
Would love to learn more about Lavaas. What is it? Where can I read about it? Trouble with School system not admitting to autism in child. School is saying child will function well in school. No special needs class. Would love to move him to a good behavior modification program for autistic children in the Massachusetts area. Any suggestions?
SUBJECT:
Re: curriculum/North Carolina
Date: 96-06-03 08:05:31 edt FROM: BRICKPOSSE
You are looking for T.E.A.C.H., I believe. Not sure what town they are in for some reason Chapel Hill is coming to mind. Try calling Autism Society of America 1-800-3-Autism.
SUBJECT: Re:Autistic Tendancies?
Date: 96-06-03 08:08:40 edt FROM: BRICKPOSSE
Contact May Center for Autistic Children, Boston area? Have child evaluated.
They understand applied behaviorial analysis.
SUBJECT: Autistic and Deaf
Date: 96-06-03 21:36:23 edt FROM: CTSuess
I am a teacher of the Hearing Impaired. I currently am working with an eleven year old autistic student who has some degree of hearing loss. Sign language has been used with some success. He has been very aggressive at times. I think more so at home than at school. There has been some discussion of a residential placement. Any info on the dual impairment or on an appropriate placement??
SUBJECT: Re:47% Lovaas
Date: 96-06-03 23:06:56 edt FROM: MnM Astro
please send me info on the reference for this. I can get the article if I have the info. THanks.
SUBJECT: Autism and The Feet
Date: 96-06-04 22:26:29 edt FROM: LouiseK446
I teach adolescents with autism and one of kids has recently begun walking on
the side of his foot and I was wondering if this is typical or if there could
possibly be a problem with his foot, so far the tests have all come back
negative. Any responses would be greatly appreciated!!! Louise
SUBJECT: Help
with PDD
Date: 96-06-04 23:50:44 edt FROM: Eemulti
My 3 1/2 year old daughter was just diagnosed. I'm looking for anyone with information on how I can effectively work with my child. I've got her all set to start in a PPI classroom in the fall. In the meantime, I need to know how to get from one day to the next. Things are rapidly getting worse.......not to mention what a toll this is taking on my marriage.
Please e-mail me with suggestions, ideas, or information. The more information I gather the better I can work with my daughter.
Thanks
SUBJECT: school districts in Boston
Date: 96-06-05 14:47:14 edt FROM: CBracy6984
Can anyone help,I m moving to the Boston area in two months and need
suggestions of good school districts that have good programs for my 5 year
old son who is labled PDD and ADD.If anyone has suggestions please email me
or post a message.thanks cbracy 6984
SUBJECT: AIT
Date: 96-06-05 16:08:16 edt FROM: CTSuess
I work for an Intermediate Unit in PA. I was trained to do AIT about 2 years ago. I assisted with one group. There were minimal improvements with these 5 children. There was another group that had gone through the training. One boy was potty trained during the two week therapy.
I understand that now the FDA as determined that the machine used for AIT is
a medical device and has not had enough testing to be used at this time. The
only way that we may provide AIT service is if an indepedent review board
would agree to oversee our testing and training. Does anyone know more about
this end of AIT
SUBJECT: Re:curriculum/North Carolina
Date: 96-06-06 23:03:19 edt FROM: Chazbern
BRICKPOSSE. Thanks so much. Will give it a try. Chazbern
SUBJECT: Eye
Contact/Autistic
Date: 96-06-07 19:58:33 edt FROM: ShelleyHL
I'm looking for research/literature regarding the prudency of teaching eye contact with autistic primary school students. Should students be required to look at a listener the entire time they are speaking? I want to do what is best and appropriate for my students. Email responses to me at ShelleyHL@AOL any responses would be appreciated.
SUBJECT: Eye Contact:
Over-rated?
Date: 96-06-08 15:44:49 edt FROM: Way7SAC10
Eye contact at all times can get you in trouble, literally. Would you insist on making eye contact on a crowded subway? When to not make eye contact should also be taught.
SUBJECT: RE: Augmentative Comm.
Date: 96-06-08 19:23:40 edt FROM: SoCityLady
I have a 12 yr. old non-verbal son with autism. A Functional communcation system is my primary concern as he moves into secondary. I am running into opposition with school district regarding setting up a system. Any ideas, available resources, etc would be greatly appreciated. Please e-mail. Thanks.
SUBJECT: Re:Starting to read
Date: 96-06-09 14:16:37 edt FROM: SGoode1103
Hi1 I am currently a kind. teacher but will be "demoted to pre'kindergarten (four year old) program next year at our school. I am very excited and of course we are already planning. We are going to have several autistic children or "children with autistic" tendencies" in our rooms. There will be two classes with special ed. collarboration. I have worked with special ed. kids before, but not autistic. I would appreciate any help, input prayers, answers, questions or chocloate that anyone would like to share. I have a wonderful aid, the other teacher and I are very compatible and the sped teacher is a jewel. What do I need to know and where can I find it? I am currently learning sign language. We will also have some developmentally delayed, and of course other special needs as well. We are using a center based program and hope to keep our numbers in our special ed classes down to 17 or below. Any other ideas. Thanks for the help!
Susan
SUBJECT: IL-Fox Valley Autism Sprt Gr
Date: 96-06-10 09:57:19 edt FROM: Bettybech
The Fox Valley Autism Support Group will meet this Wednesday, June 12th from 7-9 pm at the Kane County Chronical Building on Randall Rd. in Geneva. Parents and family members of children with autism or related disorders are welcome.
A parent who has spearheaded an effort to bring the Giant Steps program to Illinois will be our guest speaker. There will be networking and sharing of information following the presentation.
For more information E-mail Betty at bettybech@aol.com, or call (708)
232-7669
SUBJECT: Child with PDD
Date: 96-06-10 19:11:09 edt FROM: Rumer 23
Have you had any good or bad experiences using mirrors with PDD children?
Does it encourage them to focus inward?
If You Have A Answer E-Mail Me.
SUBJECT: Re:Child with PDD/Mirrors
Date: 96-06-10 20:57:23 edt FROM: BRICKPOSSE
Please explain focus inward. I am the mother of 2 autistic children.
SUBJECT:
Developmental Toys
Date: 96-06-18 11:25:10 edt FROM: K1M1L1
I am trying to determine what types of toys provide the best development for autistic children. Can anyone help?
SUBJECT: Re:New PDD diagnosis
Date: 96-06-19 01:40:46 edt FROM: Amos McD
Hi! I am the mom of a just turned 5 year old (April 29th), who has just been diagnosed with PDD. He is pretty high-functioning, but has some language delay, self-stimulatory behaviors, is socially delayed, and has some behavior problems. (Screaming, running away when out in public, non-compliance). His overall function is between age 3-4 years. Joey has been in a special ed preschool (for the language delay) since he was 3. We are keeping him in preschool another year because he's just not ready for kindergarten. His fine motor skills (which are also delayed) are not good. He can barely write 2 letters of his name. He won't participate in circle time, even though he comes home and sings all the songs, and tells me what happened during circle time.
Throughout preschool there has not been much done during OT to further his self-help skills. He still can't pull on socks or put on shoes. He's very clumsy. He's not potty-trained totally yet. I'm just wondering what are reasonable goals that the school can work with him on? I'm tired of goals being to "hop 6 times on left foot". "Copy square showing all four corners". How many times in real life do we hop on one foot and copy squares. I would like more practical help, but not sure what is reasonable. Also, what can a developmental preschool be required to do for PDD kids. I don't think much effort is being made to get Joey to participate in circle time, and I think its important that he not get away with just tuning out. Any suggestions would be very helpful. Thanks!
Amy
SUBJECT: Re:New PDD diagnosis
Date: 96-06-19 21:21:43 edt FROM: JSchutzer
Amy,
My first suggestion would be to pull Joey from the school. If after 2 yrs he hasn't made much progress, I would consider a different approach. Personally, I have had great success with a Lovaas program. My son can dress and undress himself, is totally potty trained, can sit in circle time at a typical preschool (he goes twice a week) and has lots of other skills. Seems to me this school doesn't really know how to handle him.
If you choose to keep him there, there is nothing wrong with writing into his IEP things like putting on socks or shirt, being potty trained, or tons of other OT skills. You can even include he will participate in circle time. But the key is the teachers-if they don't know how to teach him to do these things, then there is no point in having them in the IEP.
Feel free to email me if you want more info.
Jennifer
SUBJECT: Re:New PDD diagnosis
Date: 96-06-19 22:00:12 edt FROM: IzzyVa
Amy:
To help you in thinking about the IEP, read Barbara Bateman's book: Better IEPs" How to develop legally correct and educationally useful programs. It is a great way to think of writing objectives to match your child's unique needs as opposed to the way everyone seems to write objectives. It certainly has helped with our IEP.
Our son is 6 and we were in your shoes last year. We held him back and did another year of preschool (early childhood). The teacher was excellent (she had a special ed background) and she was really able to include Daniel. She used many visual cues etc. This coming year we have written many of those modifications she used into the IEP. Daniel has to have a schedule every day at the beginning of the day, etc. We have also elected to train his teacher and the aide that will be working with him (we will be sending them to a TEACCH conference). We figure it is money well spent if they understand a little more about autism.
e-mail if you want to discuss more
Chris
SUBJECT: Re:AUTISM/HOMEOPATHIC MEDS.
Date: 96-06-19 22:09:40 edt FROM: BrTrLee
I have a 6 year old son with autism too. Recently I pulled him out of school
and decided to home school him. Many of the mom's I've talked to with
autistic children believe that something internal is causing many of the
autistic characterstics. I think you are right on target with treating your
son homeopathic med. I'm not sure about which ones to use, because I'm still
in the "figuring it all out" phase. I can tell you to call (412) 422-3010, a
homeo-help line. They were great. I spoke with Brian Cutts. He was very
helpful and nice. They have sent me tons of info. My son is only on
"alumina" currently. By I'M Ready to try more....God Bless ! Matthew's
Mom
SUBJECT: Re:New PDD diagnosis
Date: 96-06-19 22:26:41 edt FROM: BrTrLee
Hi! I know how you feel Amy. My son is 6. I just pulled him out of school so I agree with Jennifer. I'm pretty sure that I will be home schooling him. I had self-help skills on my sons IEP, but it didn't matter. There wasn't time and the teachers had no clue. I dropped in on them with a suprise observation one morning and life hasn't been the same since. Try placing several baskets on the floor, infront of your childs dresser or wherever he gets dressed. Place one item of clothing in each, start with easy thing first, match shapes or colors even cute stickers to cards and baskets, help with sequencing. I know this is just one small part of the challenges you and your child face. But I strongly believe that we, as parents, know what's best for our kids. WHAT EVER YOUR HEART SAYS HE SHOULD BE LEARNING IS WHAT HE SHOULD BE WORKING ON, IN SCHOOL OR ANY WHERE!
Matthew's Mom
SUBJECT: Re:New PDD diagnosis
Date: 96-06-20 08:18:49 edt FROM: BRICKPOSSE
Amy, Hi I am the mother of two autistic children ages 5 and 4. Where are you from and what else does your area offer for autistic children? My daughter the 5 year old still can not tie her shoes, but she can dress herself. I still have to pick things out. Perhaps your school district could provide an in-home therapist to work on these areas. Sometimes nowadays, teachers are afraid to do self-help skills. There are so many rules about touching and not touching the children. If it were in your home then everyone may feel more comfortable. We won from our district, 1 to 1 4 hours a day in school to address academics, partial time in a regular preschool and 6 hours a week at home with a trained therapist to work on self-help and daily living. Feel free to e-mail me.
Bobbie
SUBJECT: dream
Date: 96-06-20 14:06:12 edt FROM: BritSkye
ok, this is definitely going to sound weird, but oh well.
a few nights ago i had a dream in which i visited a class for autistic kids...i don't remember all of it-dreams are hazy when i wake up-but i remember that it was a large room, with "warm" colors-dim light, lots of orange and yellow colored stuff, dark rug. there was a long table where all the kids were sitting. the noise and energy level was the same as any other classroom, but after a while, i noticed a difference-hardly any of the sounds were intelligable words. a little girl came up to me, and took my hand. she pressed her fingertips hard against mine. reflexively, i brought my other hand up to stroke the back of hers, but she wimpered and pulled away-what is soothing to most children was uncomfortable to her, and she just liked to have her fingers pressed against mine instead.
what a WEIRD dream!!! all i want to know is...does it make *any* sense? i've never even been in a class like that, so i was just wondering....
britta
SUBJECT: social scripting
Date: 96-06-21 21:02:00 edt FROM: Kroys620
I am a lovass trained therapist and I am looking for some ideas for social games to play with a four year old autistic child. We are one year into our program and we are working on social interaction. We have set up a preschool type atmosphere and there are three other children involved. Any ideas would be appreciated.
SUBJECT: Re:RE: Augmentative Comm.
Date: 96-06-23 02:32:51 edt FROM: Naumi
A communication sheet or board would be a very simple system for a comfortable, low tech start - Students can use pictures or symbols to communicate with peers and teachers as well as to make choices. There are some excellent computer programs which are more sophisticated too.
SUBJECT:
Lovaas technique
Date: 96-06-24 14:44:12 edt FROM: Anncraig
I recently read "Let Me Hear Your Voice" by Catherine Maurice in which she describes how she recovered her two younger children from autism through behavioral therapy (the Lovaas program). Has any one else used Lovaas? If so, with what results?
Thanks,
Ann
SUBJECT: Re:social scripting
Date: 96-06-24 19:58:01 edt FROM: TLVAIL
I use puppets to set up a play script centering on a play center situation - ie: kitchen center, workshop etc.. I say my part in the "puppet's voice" then prompt the child (usually echolalia to start) to respond to the puppet in my own voice. After the script is memorized by the child (he needs no more cues from me) I start varying the script a little. The next step is to have a non-handicapped child perfrom the script with the AU kiddo- I had a mom walk in during this time and she was amazed that her child was actually conversing and playing with another child! It sometimes takes awhile to get to the point where variations in the script are not upsetting but it's worth it!!
SUBJECT: Puppets
Date: 96-06-24 22:09:48 edt FROM: BrTrLee
I use puppets with my autistic 6 year old and his 4 year old sister often. Recently, I discovered that when he's not responding well to me, that he will respond to a puppet or other inanimate object.
Mom: What's your name? (repeated) Normally I tap on my chest to prompt the beginning of his responce which is "My name is Matthew" This way I'm not giving him verbal cues anymore and he can think for himself. However, when he's having a bad day, He won't answer me....he will answer a silly voiced puppet though, so we can continue to work on our social development even when the odds are against us!
SUBJECT: Re:Lovaas technique
Date: 96-06-24 22:12:30 edt FROM: BrTrLee
I would also be interested in finding out about the Lovaas Technique. I couldn't find a specific book on the subject at the Library. But, thanks for stating the title of the book by Catherine Maurice Ann. That will be next on my reading list for sure.
SUBJECT: Re:Lovaas technique
Date: 96-06-25 20:21:06 edt FROM: JSchutzer
I've been using the Lovaas technique for almost 2 yrs now and am very pleased with the results. If you want details, you can email me.
Jennifer
SUBJECT: Re:communication
Date: 96-06-25 23:23:13 edt FROM: Blackmen
My son is autistic - Downs and was trained in facilitating communication at the Sullivan Diagnostic and Treatment Center in upstate New York. He turned 21 last August and was moved to a group ICF in Astoria, Queens. We are having a difficult time finding people who are trained in this type of communication and would like help in locating an organization that would provide counselors skilled in this area. Is there such a thing in the New York area? Please respond if you know of any.
SUBJECT: Therapists wanted D.C. area
Date: 96-06-26 14:44:17 edt FROM: MMCDeb
I have an established team of therapists working with my 7 year old son in a Lovaas program and am looking for a new team member. Any therapists out there looking for 8-10 hors per week?
SUBJECT: Landau Kleffner testing D.C.
Date: 96-06-26 14:45:29 edt FROM: MMCDeb
Anyone know of a doctor who is a reliable judge of Landau Kleffner syndrome in the D.C./Baltimore area?
SUBJECT: What comes after Lovaas?
Date: 96-06-26 14:49:12 edt FROM: MMCDeb
I am a mom of a 7 year old boy who has been doing Lovaas for 3 years with
good results, but not full recovery. He is approaching the end of the Lovaas
curriculum. Anyone out there in the same position that wants to talk about
next steps? I'm at mmcdeb@aol
SUBJECT: PDD/Autism
Date: 96-07-02 01:48:55 edt FROM: Smtrptwife
Hi! Iam new to AOL and to PDD/Autism. My daughter is 3 and attending a DDI. I am pretty happy with the progress she's showing but you can always hope for more. She just had her CPSEvaluation when PDD/Autism came up. I haven't yet read "Children with Autism","Let me hear your Voice" or "The Me Book" but plan to soon. I received some phone numbers of local Autism Societies and haven't contacted them as yet either. I am interested in utilizing this area in possibly networking since I was told there seems to be a concentration of these children in the Huntington/Northport area (L.I.N.Y.). Perhaps some one would like to respond. Regular or onlooker. Thanks!
SUBJECT: Re:PDD/Autism
Date: 96-07-04 00:02:08 edt FROM: MMCDeb
I have a son who is 7 that has been doing lovaas for 3 years with good
success. Have done the gamut of the other stuff too (DMG, AIT,nutrition
analysis, EEG, and sensory integration therapy). Would be happy to share my
experiences with parents of newly diagnosed kids. Email at
mmcdeb@aol.com
SUBJECT: PDD email loop?
Date: 96-07-04 20:57:25 edt FROM: Mohub
Hi :) Does anyone know if there is an email loop for parents of children with PDD? If not, would anyone be interested in being part of one? If you are, please email me at:
barbara@biddeford.com
thanks!
Barbara
SUBJECT: Re:PDD/Autism
Date: 96-07-07 00:49:29 edt FROM: BJ Happe
Hi! Hope to see some of you at the Nat. ASA Conference. Dennis, I enjoy reading your messages. I hope people listen. You make a lot sense. Hope to see you at the conference. Bonnie Happe:)
SUBJECT: Re:PDD/Autism
Date: 96-07-07 00:55:56 edt FROM: BJ Happe
Barbara, there is a lot of information on Autism/PDD. You can learn much from everyone sharing information and not having to break it up into PDD or Autism.:) Many doctors seem to like the term PDD because (my opinon) it doesn't sound as threatning as 'Autism'. Sometimes this causes confusion in parents who have just heard the diagnosis. :)
SUBJECT: autism
Date: 96-07-08 17:07:15 edt FROM: JConry
Hi I am new to aol and new to the field of autism. I have taught seven years
students who have severe multiple handicaps but this fall will be my first
with a student who has been diagnosed with PDD/autism. I am looking for any
beginner literature, etc. He will have a one on one assistant who is also
new to the field so I need to brush up so I can in turn teach him. Thanks
please email me a jconry@aol.com thanks again. julie
SUBJECT: Re:autism
Date: 96-07-11 19:20:28 edt FROM: Smtrptwife
Check out "Children with Autism" any local library carries it as the Autism Society has placed them in all libraries to my knowledge.
SUBJECT: Question
Date: 96-07-13 23:35:35 edt FROM: Wyndchime
This might not be the right spot for this..But my son has been diagnoised
with aphasia w/autism its taken about 3 years or so and tons of doctors to
get this answer...my son is 4 years old now..I'm just kinda curisous if
others other there have had the problem of others treating your child like
they have a communicable disease or something...The reson I am asking is that
this has happend to me a few times and since I don't know anyone else with a
child that has any type of special needs...I had him in public school for a
while...and even his teachers were treating him this way...this is way I
decided to homeschool him because of the system he was in....also kinda
curious if there are others here in california/los angeles area that get
together with others and have the kids socialize....I tried contacting the
Autism Socity out here but no ones been able to help me...they sent me a
couple of pamplets and that was it....I know this is a couple of long
questions...but if anyone is out there has been in my boat and found out a
couple of the answers could you please e-mail me and let me know some of the
answers ....it would be greatly apprecated
SUBJECT: Ignorance
Date: 96-07-17 21:43:45 edt FROM: Way7SAC10
Wyndchime: These people act out of ignorance. No amount of training or
letters after your name qualifies anyone as an expert. These [people need
their own IEP to correct their apparent ignorance & prejudice. I suggest a
new advocacy group now to help these poor people with biased minds. Autism is
not to be feared, and we all need to stand up & tell the world that autism
isn't a bad thing, only the ignorance & prejudice surrounding this *word* is
to be feared. We need to tell them what our loved ones can do, and that their
rights are every bit as [precious as anyone else's. They need an education,
and it is our jobs as advocates to provide the public this education. If only
we can spare the time after trying to find the "cure" or "fixing" our loved
ones. Sarcastically & cynically yours, Dennis Debbaudt
SUBJECT: Teaching
Autistic Students
Date: 96-07-17 21:56:47 edt FROM: Manin Ajar
I am Teaching my first class of students with Autism starting in Sept. I have taught MH for the past 3 years and have one or two autistic students. Any advice anyone could share would be helpful..
SUBJECT: Einstein autistic?
Date: 96-07-17 22:48:09 edt FROM: Anncraig
I recently heard that Einstein was probably autistic, hence his late language. Does anyone know any more about this? Can anyone provide some references for me?
Thanks,
Ann
SUBJECT: Poems?
Date: 96-07-18 16:48:50 edt FROM: AmyNoelle
I downloaded a few beautiful poems last fall from this message board and have lost one. It is not the one by Erma Bombeck, it was by a mother of an autistic son, and if I recall, she wrote about "wondering where his blue eyes would go, and if he would take her there with him". I get choked up just thinking about it. I would appreciate anyone's help with finding it for me. Please Email it to me if at all possible-I rarely have time to go through all of the messages here. Thanks so much.
AmyNoelle
SUBJECT: Re:Einstein autistic?
Date: 96-07-18 17:07:59 edt FROM: SusanS29
"I recently heard that Einstein was probably autistic, hence his late language. Does anyone know any more about this? Can anyone provide some references for me?
Thanks,
Ann"
Here's the thing, Ann. It's speculation. There are lots of explanations for late language acquisition, and autism is only one of them. Others think he had a language problem (but not autism). Still others claim he had ADD, and yet others claim he had a learning disability.
We'll never know, because he isn't here any longer to examine.
SUBJECT:
Re: AutismMethods
Date: 96-07-18 17:30:01 edt FROM: OKIE1270
I am a second year teacher in special education and will be having a new class in the Fall with five students with autism. I need information on students with autism. What teaching strategies have been successful? How can I get training for sensory integration, Lovass, Pivotal Response, etc? I want to gain as much knowledge as I can for my students to provide the best education. Any articles, resources, conferences, books, personal experience would be helpful. Each child has differenct needs, so all information will be appreciated.
Please e-mail me at Okie1270..
SUBJECT: Re:Ignorance
Date: 96-07-18 17:30:26 edt FROM: Wyndchime
Thank you so much...I thought I was the only one that thought that way and
maybe I was going nuts...let me amend that I know I'm nuts...I try to explain
to people...but unfortunatly no one wants to listen and I'm not going to
force someone to stand there while I talk...I'm just glad others think like I
do...and I apprecate you answering my question
SUBJECT: Re:Teaching Autistic
Students
Date: 96-07-18 20:07:29 edt FROM: TLVAIL
Do you have access to a trained AU teacher in your system? From my experience, you need to get the environment structured and a behavior management system in place before the school year begins and your kiddo's show up. Each child is different so I can't really give you any advice other than to ask for help from someone locally. Unfortunately, I've seen some children suffer educationally because they were served by an untrained teacher.
SUBJECT: Reading Comprehension
Date: 96-07-19 00:56:39 edt FROM: Mscreature
How do I assess the reading comprehension level of a 5th grade autistic student who can read words on a 6th grade level? When asked who, what, where questions he repeats the question, which is pretty common I know. I think that he could circle things or draw lines connecting phrases and pictures, but everything that I have found so far for typically developing kids constantly changes the directions and formats which throw my kid off. He does excellent with the Edmark Functional Words series, but I want to see if he can do more than relate single words to pictures. Any ideas?
SUBJECT:
Over-Trained Teacher
Date: 96-07-19 10:21:52 edt FROM: Way7SAC10
The other side of the coin is the over-trained teacher who "knows-it-all" about autism and cannot accept anything new that might help a student. Some of the best teachers our 13-year-old boy has had were teachers who were "under-trained" yet willing to learn, were flexible, accepting, common-sense based & non-judgemental. Don't make teaching, understanding and accepting autism more than it really is.
SUBJECT: Re:Einstein autistic?
Date: 96-07-19 11:36:50 edt FROM: Anncraig
Thanks for the response. Yes, I've noticed that whatever label currently going around - ADHD, autism, etc. - gets dumped on poor old Einstein :-) Interesting speculation, though.
SUBJECT: Re:Einstein autistic?
Date: 96-07-20 12:06:08 edt FROM: SusanS29
"Thanks for the response. Yes, I've noticed that whatever label currently going around - ADHD, autism, etc. - gets dumped on poor old Einstein :-) Interesting speculation, though."
Yes it is, Ann. And it's pretty clear proof that early predictions about children aren't always accurate. :)
You know what one of Einstein's teachers told his parents?
"It doesn't matter what he does. He'll never amount to anything."
SUBJECT: need
ideas-social skill devel.
Date: 96-07-21 15:01:26 edt FROM: BRowan5155
I am looking for curriculums, resources, or creative suggestions to teach social skills to preschoolers with autism/PDD/PSH. I teach at a school with a Lovaas based curriculum, but ideas do not necessarily have to fit the discrete trial format. We are creating a class of pretty high-functioning kids who we hope to transition to regular settings quickly. Academically they are in good shape, and we'd like to emphasize social skills development. Any help would be much appreciated!! Please post a message or e-mail me at BRowan5155@aol.com. Thanks!!
SUBJECT: Re:Wyndchime
Date: 96-07-21 15:24:00 edt FROM: BRowan5155
I am a teacher, not a parent, but I've seen lots of parents in your position. One parent I know initiated a play group for her son. I believe she met other families at a parent support group, and then made arrangements to meet in a local park, swim club, or each others' homes on a fairly regular basis. It helped her autistic child to have social interaction, and it also helped the "normal" siblings to meet other kids in similar positions. You may want to seek out other parents and establish a group like this. Also, here is the number for COSAC (Center for Outreach and Services for the Autism Community) (609) 883-8100. This is the NJ office, but I'm sure they can put you in touch with groups in your area. They also publish a national directory of services, including parent support groups and schools, which you may find helpful.
SUBJECT: Re:Wyndchime
Date: 96-07-23 00:08:24 edt FROM: Wyndchime
Thank you for the information...I will give them a call tomarrow
SUBJECT: Help for new position
Date: 96-07-23 11:36:49 edt FROM: Ms hoov105
Hi I have just been hired to teach a class of special education students in grades K-2. Some of the children are high functioning autistics. I have worked in the past with one student with PDD but would like to have more information on activities and resources to benefit this type of child. If you could help it would be wonderful. Please e-mail me at mshoov105@aol.com. Thank you .
SUBJECT: Re:Einstein autistic?
Date: 96-07-24 10:32:50 edt FROM: Ratatat
"We'll never know, because he isn't here any longer to examine."
Just a thought. If I remember correctly, somebody, somewhere - some insitution - has Einstein's brain. It was preserved with the "idea" that one day science would allow an examination of just how this genius organ worked. Well, we now have many tools that would, in fact, allow us to take a look in certain ways. Weird.
SUBJECT: Re:Autismm-Assessment
Date: 96-07-25 23:48:10 edt FROM: Calo186
The Gilliam Autism Rating Scale is a good diagnostic instrument. You can get it through Pro Ed.
SUBJECT: Re:Einstein autistic?
Date: 96-07-27 00:34:54 edt FROM: PattiMcHam
It's funny you should bring that up. Actually, there are a number of people in the field that I have spoken with that have suggested to me that he had Asperger's Syndrome. From what I've read of him, I think it's entirely possible. I also think that sometimes the "mad scientist" stereotype (peculiar social habits, etc.) points to Asperger's more than we know. Then again, what is "normal" anyway?
SUBJECT: PDD, AU, LANDAU KLEFFNER
Date: 96-07-28 20:40:00 edt FROM: TLVAIL
I have been working with a 4 yr. old boy who is showing a lot of Autistic characteristics. The parents feel that his only problem is with communication and don't want to have any further testing conducted. When I first started with him he was highly echolalic, poor eye contact, showed difficulty transitioning between tasks, showed little no imaginitive play, had terrible temper tantrums consisiting of biting, hitting and screaming. There was little functional language use. After one month of highly structured therapy he has progressed farther than I would ever have imagined!
His language has improved significantly and is using scripted play at home as
well as in therapy. I know this child has great potential but I'm worried
that he won't get the structured programming he needs without a label. Can
someone please help distinguish the PDD, Autism, Asperger's and Kleffner
diagnoses for me. What does this kiddo sound like? I should mention that he
has a very strong visual memory and is showing signs of hyperlexia. I know
he needs more than speech therapy but I feel trapped due to the denial of his
parents.:(
SUBJECT: Re:PDD, AU, LANDAU KLEFFNER
Date: 96-07-28 21:36:47 edt FROM: Wyndchime
The child your working with sounds just like mine...I finaly found a doctor that gave me the right answer....she told he he's aphashic (probly spelling this wrong) but all the things that you said my son has had or goes threw.....right now were trying to get him into speach therapy to help him...have your people take the child to a nerologist...they can give a more accurate answer ...
SUBJECT: DX'ing on AOL
Date: 96-07-28 22:54:49 edt FROM: Way7SAC10
Please read the general disclaimer regarding the accuracy & sources of the "information" floating around on these BB's. And is it fair to diagnose people on America On Line?
SUBJECT: Re:DX'ing on AOL
Date: 96-07-29 09:00:53 edt FROM: Ratatat
<And is it fair to diagnose people on America On Line?>
I don't think anyone is "diagnosing" on AOL. People are giving their opinions...some of them measured and educated, others not. I don't know of any professional practice or school that would accept an AOL diagnosis anyway. And, I think we all know that we each must take certain statements with a grain of salt when necessary. Personally, I have generally found the information on these boards to be quite reliable. I have learned a great deal from reading what other people think, know, experience and have opinions about. Also, even if sometimes the information is a little off, it has almost always caused me to look into an issue further and deeper and find original sources and solid materials...but, I had guideposts and ideas to pursue that otherwise I wouldn't have had.
SUBJECT: Re:DX'ing on AOL
Date: 96-07-30 21:31:44 edt FROM: TLVAIL
I agree. If others have had kids with similar symptoms, they may shed light on which direction to go for a diagnosis or therapy models that have been beneficial.
SUBJECT: Re:Einstein autistic?
Date: 96-07-31 19:31:45 edt FROM: SusanS29
""We'll never know, because he isn't here any longer to examine."
Just a thought. If I remember correctly, somebody, somewhere - some insitution - has Einstein's brain. It was preserved with the "idea" that one day science would allow an examination of just how this genius organ worked. Well, we now have many tools that would, in fact, allow us to take a look in certain ways. Weird."
Yes they have it, but these things aren't diagnosed via physical examination of the brain. They're diagnosed by observing how the person *uses* their brain in structured psychological tests.
SUBJECT: Re:Einstein autistic?
Date: 96-07-31 19:32:51 edt FROM: SusanS29
I know, Patti-but if you examine him through the LD lens he looks LD, and if you examine him through the ADD lens it's just screaming at you.
We'll never know except we absolutely know he was an *unusual* learner.
SUBJECT:
Re: DX'ing on AOL
Date: 96-07-31 19:35:05 edt FROM: SusanS29
"Please read the general disclaimer regarding the accuracy & sources of the "information" floating around on these BB's. And is it fair to diagnose people on America On Line?"
As host I read all the messages and have found nothing in violation of any of AOL's policies.
No one here is "diagnosing;" that's not possible on-line. So it is an (unfair) over-interpretation to claim that anyone is diagnosing.
Whether anyone is "diagnosing" on line is officially "off-topic" for this folder. Anyone who has further concerns about this is welcome to e-mail me (SusanS29, the host) or Ratatat (the assistant host.)
SUBJECT: Re:Einstein
autistic?
Date: 96-08-01 13:30:53 edt FROM: Ratatat
<<Yes they have it, but these things aren't diagnosed via physical
examination of the brain. They're diagnosed by observing how the person
*uses* their brain in structured psychological tests.>
Right...but what I'm hypothesizing about is that *maybe* someday there will
be technology that will allow his brain to be examined while he's not using
it! <g>
SUBJECT: Lighten Up
Date: 96-08-01 13:42:07 edt FROM: Way7SAC10
Perhaps we should all lighten up out here & not take this tuff too seriuosly.
SUBJECT: Stuff
Date: 96-08-01 13:42:39 edt FROM: Way7SAC10
Of course, I meant *stuff*, not *tuff*.
SUBJECT: A Different Theory on Autism
Date: 96-08-01 22:06:42 edt FROM: LouiseK446
As I approach my second year as a teacher of students with autism, I feel as if there is too much negative connotation associated with the diagnosis, as is evident through the last couple of e-mails speculating on whether someone may or may not be autistic. I feel as if we need to see those with autism as merely being different and having different strengths/weaknesses than the rest of us. For those persons teaching autism like myself it is real important to focus on what students can do when writing IEPs and conducting lessons. I am so sick of autism being viewed as a terrible thing, because it really isn't. I say this after having two students with autism, speech and language impairment, and mental retardation. Aside from their weak areas they were wonderful and I learned a lot from them as they learned from me.
My advice to all is to cherish our students, respect their strengths and do
all we can to maximize what they can do so it can benefit them is in settings
outside of school. Louise
SUBJECT: Re:Home
Program Help!
Date: 96-08-02 00:24:47 edt FROM: BAllen8095
Check out the "Recovery Zone" page on the WWW.....I don't recall the URL at the moment, but you can find it with any search engine like Yahoo. This page has TONS of good info on discrete trial training, resources, and I believe they also now have the Federal court decision made recently in NY on a child's behalf.....and at the school district's expense!
Good luck. It's not easy, but it's definitely worth it!
SUBJECT: Re:Lighten Up
Date: 96-08-02 01:47:49 edt FROM: SusanS29
Way says: "Perhaps we should all lighten up out here & not take this tuff too seriuosly."
That's probably true if anyone has been angered by this debate.
But barring that-isn't it wonderful to know that people like Einstein, and Edison and many other of our most remarkable achievers had great difficulties as youngsters? (Well it's wonderful to know if any of your children have special needs, anyway...)
SUBJECT: Re:A Different Theory on Autis
Date: 96-08-02 01:49:00 edt FROM: SusanS29
"As I approach my second year as a teacher of students with autism, I feel as if there is too much negative connotation associated with the diagnosis, as is evident through the last couple of e-mails speculating on whether someone may or may not be autistic."
Well I guess... but I take the speculation as *positive,* not negative. I mean, if Einstein was autistic clearly there's hope.
SUBJECT: Re:Home Program
Help!
Date: 96-08-02 01:50:54 edt FROM: SusanS29
I'll go even further.
*Anyone* with any significant interest in any of these "special education" issues really needs to get to the Internet.
If you need more memory in your computer, the price of memory has plummeted.
Ditto for the fast modems (get a 28.8 -- you'll be glad you did.)
Don't be afraid of the Internet. Be willing to pay a little extra on your AOL bill for a month or two, and get to know it through AOL. AOL makes it remarkably easy, and the amount of information "out there" is just... incredible doesn't even begin to cover it.
SusanS29, Host
SUBJECT: Re: recovery room
Date: 96-08-02 03:11:08 edt FROM: BAllen8095
It's the Recovery Zone, and it's on the WWW. Go to Yahoo (or any other search service on the WWW) and you'll find it. It is indeed WONDERFUL!
SUBJECT:
Re: Lovaas technique
Date: 96-08-02 03:36:39 edt FROM: BAllen8095
Ann,
We've been using it for the past 2 1/2 years and the results have been WONDERFUL! You started with the right book!
Check out a WWW page called "The Recovery Zone." I don't have the URL handy, but I always get there via Yahoo, anyway.
Write me if you have any questions,
Barbara
SUBJECT: Recovery Zone
Date: 96-08-02 07:47:43 edt FROM: Bettybech
I don't have the exact URL for the Recovery Zone, but there is a link through the Autism Resources Page under "Methods, Treatments, Programs". This page is at:
http://web.syr.edu/~jmwobus/autism/
Betty
SUBJECT: Re:A Different Theory on Aut
Date: 96-08-02 09:24:13 edt FROM: LouiseK446
I guess my point is that there is still hope even if our students aren't
like einstein, even if they are lower functioning, they still have something
to contribute in their own way. Louise
SUBJECT: Bullseye!
Date: 96-08-02 15:41:54 edt FROM: Way7SAC10
Your attitude is right on, Louise. You hit a bullseye in my book!
SUBJECT:
Re: Bullseye!
Date: 96-08-02 17:44:31 edt FROM: LouiseK446
I am glad that someone thinks so and that it isn't just a utopian viewpoint.
SUBJECT: Re:A Different Theory on Aut
Date: 96-08-03 09:50:37 edt FROM: SusanS29
"I guess my point is that there is still hope even if our students aren't
like einstein, even if they are lower functioning, they still have something
to contribute in their own way. Louise"
ABSOLUTELY Louise and what an important point to make. I don't think anyone meant that all kids have to be Einsteins.
For me the point was that a child is more than just his or her
disabilities.
SUBJECT: Re:A Different Theory on Aut
Date: 96-08-03 10:14:15 edt FROM: LouiseK446
Exactly!!!
SUBJECT: Re:A Different Theory on Aut
Date: 96-08-05 08:55:34 edt FROM: Passarette
Dear Louise,
I agree with you also. I so often run into parents and others who say, when
do you think your son will be mainstreamed, etc? I just answer that I'm
happy with whatever progress he makes, however significant or insignificant -
just as long as he's happy. We always make a point to say we're proud of him
- how hard he's trying, etc. and more importantly, always say how much we love him - he truly smiles from ear to ear when we say that!
Jean
SUBJECT: position sought-LI, NY
Date: 96-08-07 00:57:28 edt FROM: Kim Susan
My name is Kim and I am a recent graduate from NYU with a BA in psychology. I have been working in an ABA/ Lovaas program for about a year now and I would like to continue. The only problem is that I have recently returned to Long Island from Manhattan and the commute into the city is very expensive.
I was wondering if anyone had any info about any home programs or schools that are located in Long Island (nassau or suffolk). I do not have my teaching certificate yet (I will be returning to get my MA as soon as I save enough money-a year or so). please help!
KimSusan @aol.com
SUBJECT: It's almost that time...
Date: 96-08-09 11:14:34 edt FROM: CACHere
<---teacher with 17 years experience in special ed...I'd just like to say....I'm ready for your child with autism to teach me more. Every year I think I learn as much or more than the kids. Would like to correspond with anyone re:autism, facilitated communication, group homes for older nonverbal folks with autism, medical, etc...am member of very active local parent support group. Have a great year!!
SUBJECT: RE: HELP ME!
Date: 96-08-14 19:02:20 edt FROM: Rum131
I teach computer applications and have an autistic child on my roll for this fall. I have been told that he loves computers and is a whiz at making them work. Any suggestions on some things he may enjoy doing on the computer or how to handle his behavior in the classroom?
SUBJECT: Re:RE: HELP ME!
Date: 96-08-14 19:07:12 edt FROM: LouiseK446
If he likes computers, then I would suggest letting him use it, and just see
what he likes and go from there; you have a less chance of encountering
behavior problems if he is enjoying the time with something he likes. The
key thing to remember is that he is still a student, and isn't someone to be
afraid of or intimidated by, you just have to get a feel for him to see how
he responds to you and vice versa. If he is good a computers then he perhaps
could work with other students, there are a lot of possibilities the trick is
not to go into it with any preconceived ideas.....Louise
SUBJECT: thesis on
autism/HELP
Date: 96-08-14 19:09:54 edt FROM: FPicker146
I AM THINKING OF WRITING MY GRADUATE SCHOOL THESIS ON AUTISM BUT I'M NOT TO SURE HOW TO NARROW IT DOWN. ANY IDEAS??? WHERE CAN I GET MORE INFORMATION???
SUBJECT: Re:thesis on autism/HELP
Date: 96-08-18 02:55:33 edt FROM: Carjoja
Hi, I'm the mom of 3 kids, one of whom is autistic, I've been on this board before,but it's been a few years I think. To the parents of special children, you'll know exactly what I'm saying...I havel learned more from my autistic son than I have learned in 35 years without him....I am no longer shy , I speak my mind, I HAD TO. I am no longer embarrasssed easily, IT WILL PASS. I don't care how nice your car or your house or whatever is, IT DOES NOT MATTER. You learn these things after a while. The actual diagnosis does not even matter to me, you usually teach these kids in the same manner anyway. I'm writing for some support, I guess. I have stayed home for the last 11 years raising my kids, )formerly an accountant), and I now have an oppurtunity with the local school district ina small town to aide a special ed ( autistic) child in 1st grade. Am very excited but scared, too. They think I know more than I do, I think. I told them" I don't understand autism, I' m winging it!" But, they figure I live with it, so I must understand it. Comments, please....
Dawn.
SUBJECT: Moved from another folder
Date: 96-08-18 11:12:36 edt FROM: SusanS29
SUBJECT: Re:PDD
Date: 96-08-17 22:55:09 edt FROM: DNA139
Posted on: America Online
I am very interested also on how to find information on the internet on PDD( I am also new to this)
I am a special education teacher working with a 2 year old child who was just diagnosed with PDD. I have worked with autistic children before, I would like to know how PDD is different.
SUBJECT: Lovass with MR/CP
Date: 96-08-18 11:58:54 edt FROM: TLVAIL
I'm working with a student with delayed mylenization resulting in problems with cognition, communication and motor skills. He was in a 1/2day program 2 times a week last year beginning when he turned 3. He got speech, OT,and PT. Parents were getting private sensory integration therapy on the side in addition to what the OT was providing. Teaching techniques consistet of a combination of operant behavioral techniques and "whole language" thematic group stimulation techniques. When this student wasn't with an adult he was sleeping because he was so worn out. He was kept busy and stimulated as much as possible and we were making progress.- I just got a call letting me know that the parents want the school to send their son to a full time Lovass program out of district. I want whatever's best for this child and am more than willing to advocate for him but really don't see him benefiting from this type of program- Please give me your thoughts/comments as I meet with the parents on Tues. Thanks!
SUBJECT: DC Area - ABA Training Program
Date: 96-08-19 21:13:47 edt FROM: BarbaraAsh
We live in the DC area (Northern Virginia) and have a child diagnosed as autistic. We are undertaking a two-day ABA training program to be lead by a therapist from the Center For Autism & Related Disorders (CARD). The Center's Clinical Director is Doreen Granpeesheh, Ph. D, who studied under Dr. Ivar Lovaas.
We are looking for one or two other families that would like to join in this
program with us, and share the expenses. The training is scheduled for
September 21 and 22, 1996
If you are interested and would like more information, please e-mail BarbaraAsh@aol.com as soon as possible.
SUBJECT: Dawn
Date: 96-08-21 10:46:34 edt FROM: Way7SAC10
Dawn, to say that you know autism because you *live with it* may be stereo-typing, but when reading your post it is clear you have a healthy, realistic outlook about this life & you'll do great as an aide. Go Girl!!
SUBJECT: FIGHTING
Date: 96-08-23 00:05:01 edt FROM: AMccoy1011
We are the parents of 2 autistic boys and 1 so-called normal daughter. Yes, I do think of myself as an expert on autism, well, maybe not an expert, but certainly more knowledgeable about autism than the teachers I' ve been in contact with the pass year and a half ! They readily admitt that they don't know much about autism but feel threathened or hesitant about my knowledge and it's so frustrating. I'm not the kind of parent who get into some sort of power struggle over the education of my children, but I do want them to have the best education they can have. It's hard for some of the teachers and school officials to understand that autistic learns differently than regular ed. children. They want to teach them using the exact same method used with the regular ed. children. The resistance is so strong against any suggestions. We are having to make up for so much . I refuse to homeschool because I believe in fighting for the free education that they deserve at all cost. I fortunately have linked up with other parents who share the same views and we are seeing slow progress. For all you parents that are trying to fight it alone, find someone who has a common ground and stand together. Maybe it's just the area I am in I hope. We are military anyway which means we don't have long here. Thank goodness!! Now that I think about it I am an expert!
SUBJECT: Re:Lovaas Tapes
Date: 96-08-23 00:59:08 edt FROM: JEANFIE
I HAVE AN ALMOST 3 YEAR OLD GRANDSON WHO EXHIBITS AUTISTIC LIKE SYMTOMS. HE
HAS SPEECH AND COMMUNICATION DELAYS AND GETS EXTREMELY FRUSTRATED. HE IS PHYSICALLY A VERY LARGE CHILD AND EXTREMELY STRONG. HE IS ENROLLED IN A SPECIAL EDUCATION PROGRAM AND I AM TRYING TO LEARN ALL I CAN ABOUT HIS PROBLEMS. I HAVE SEEN THE "LOVAAS" NAME MENTIONED IN SOME OF THE ARTICLES I HAVE READ. CAN YOU TELL ME MORE ABOUT WHAT IT IS? THANKS.
SUBJECT: Re:Lovaas
Tapes
Date: 96-08-23 21:29:49 edt FROM: SusanS29
Thank you for your post, and I hope you find the information you seek, but please-post in both upper and lower case in the future.
Thanks.
SusanS29, Host
SUBJECT: Re:Dawn
Date: 96-08-24 23:33:10 edt FROM: Carjoja
Thanks, Way! You know, the principal who hired me said the same thing, and it surprised me. I never thought I had a good attitude about it. I think it stinks, actually, but I refuse to let it tear my family apart. Like I always tell my kids, alot of other people have MUCH bigger problems. At least we have Jared with us. I met with the boy on Friday, and his mother too. His social and speech is more severe than my son's, but his academics are much higher. At first, I was almost sick. I've been here before, I worked my ass off to get out of that pit...I stayed over an hour, he certainly seemed to connect with me ( as much as an autistic child can), he kissed me twice, hugged me, and held my hand. I start on Tuesday. I hope I can handle it. The one thing that really bothers me about this though is this inclusion thing. This is a new one on me. I've heard of it, but not been around it. They're throwing this uncommunicable 6 yr. old autistic child in a reg. ed. class with 20+ other kids. I would never do this with my son. I'm having a hard time seperating my personal feelings. I feel like as an aide, I'm supposed to support this way of thinking, but on the inside, I'm thinking, why are we doing this to this poor child, he can't handle this!! Comments, please.
Dawn
SUBJECT: Inclusion=politics
Date: 96-08-25 20:57:54 edt FROM: Way7SAC10
Be careful with those hard-line inclusionists, they'll stop at nothing to get their way: stifle choice, ruin reputations, chill out & discredit parents who "get in the way". Scary folks these, hard-liners. As long as you do what you're hired to do, Dawn, you'll be OK. Find another good advocate to get these parents information on both sides of the inclusion story.... something these so-called inclusionists are reluctant and find hard to do. Good luck out here.
SUBJECT: Re:DC Area - ABA Training Pro.
Date: 96-08-26 09:22:00 edt FROM: MELASha RE
Hi
I am a teacher in the NoVA area. I know a family that already has card in place. They share their trainers etc. Let me know if you want more info. The mom in the family was an officer in the Autism Society ,NoVA chapter so I am sure she will be glad to share info.
Sheila (MELASha RE)
SUBJECT: Re:thesis on autism/HELP
Date: 96-08-26 09:24:25 edt FROM: MELASha RE
Hi
I am not sure my response to this posted so I will try again. I think that you will be a wealth of knowledge to the teacher and the program. I am a teacher and would love to have you in my room. You will learn the child easily enough after being wiht him. Good luck.
Sheila
SUBJECT: Re:FIGHTING
Date: 96-08-26 09:33:17 edt FROM: MELASha RE
HI
I am a teacher of kids with autism. I am lucky enough to have 4 parents like
you that have children in my class. They are a wealth of knowledge. They
have really helped me. I thought some resources for your teachers might help
you. Great books that really talk about structure and seeing things thru the
child's eyes are: The Practical Guide to Effective Programming for the
Autistic Impaired by Bryant S. Domina (1994) available thru Individual
Educaiotn Systems, PO Box 60, Grandville, MI 49468-0060
Also anything put out by Indiana University. I will have to post that info
later. I don't have it by the computer now. There are more and more good
books out there. The county I work in has come out with Social Story
Handbook, Behavior Management Handbook, etc. Specifically for teachers of
students with autism. Keep fighting. There are interested and motivated
teachers out there. *smile*
Sheila
SUBJECT: Re:RE: HELP ME!
Date: 96-08-26 09:37:34 edt FROM: MELASha RE
Hi
Depending on the age of the child there are alot of great programs out there. Hyperstudio provides alot of possibilities for interaction at all grade levels. Give him choices. Things with music and sound components have been really helpful with my students. Living books, etc. foor the younger ones. Good luck.
Sheila
SUBJECT: Help! PDD's in my class!
Date: 96-08-28 11:56:19 edt FROM: TPSKID
I am a sixth year teacher who works primarily with ADD/ADHD students. Our school specializes in "Learning Differences" and language/developmental delays. However, some of the extreme behaviors exhibited by my PDD students is beyond anything I ever expected! Where can I go for help....some words of encouragement, etc.
Stan Barlow
The Parish School
Houston, Tx.
TPSKID
SUBJECT: Re:Lovass and speech/languag
Date: 96-08-28 15:01:11 edt FROM: RSale57228
I started working with a now 4 yr. old autistic boy last year. He is working through the school district with a consultant. We have been using Lovaas for a year now and he has made tremdous improvement over the year. I am curious in finding out about other methods of teaching autistic children as I know that different learining styles require different teaching styles. I would like information on other methods if possible. I want to see if there is something better for him. I also think the parents of these children need a great support system. Sometimes I feel that the mother of this child is going to fall apart at any moment.
SUBJECT: medication and pdd
Date: 96-08-29 15:57:41 edt FROM: TIMBRIMOM
my 5 yr old son has pdd. while he has some advanced skills ( i.e spelling, reading) he does alot of screaming and tantruming. we recently took him to a psychologist to discuss these behaviors along with his extreme anxiety. this dr. in 10 minutes decided he was hyperactive and suggests we put him on ritilan.
my research has shown that a side affect of ritalin can be increased anxiety. has anyone experienced this ? he seem to have such anxiety already i would hate to increase it. also, i cannot get him to take medication. any suggestions on how i can give him this if we decide to do so ?
i am new to this service and would appreciate any help i can get. i am very apprehensive about giving him medication.
SUBJECT: Re:Lovass and speech/languag
Date: 96-08-29 23:28:35 edt FROM: Wyndchime
I've been sitting down with mine and letting him work on the computer...I
picked up a kids size track ball and got some software with bright colors to
and sounds to work the visial as well as the verbal....My son is 4 so I get
some of the pre-school stuff...and if your lucky enought you can find some
stuff that for youngers...kinda like the jumpstart that has a toddler level
and works its way up...thats what I did..I started with him about a year ago
and he's up to the start of the kindergarden level and he's blown past the
pre-school one on reader rabbit...this is just my experience working with my
son...I don't know if it helps...but I figured it wouldn't hurt to post
this
SUBJECT: Re:medication and pdd
Date: 96-08-30 18:13:11 edt FROM: SusanS29
I don't know if medication will help your child or not, but any increase in anxiety would be temporary.
And... Ritalin leaves the body quite rapidly. Sometimes it *helps* with anxiety. It depends on the cause of the anxiety.
SUBJECT: Teacher wanted
Date: 96-08-30 23:53:37 edt FROM: MMCDeb
Immediate opportunity in D.C. area for a special teacher/aide to shadow a 7
year old PDD-nos child. He is a happy, affectionate kid who has been
mainstreamed with support very successfully for 2 years and doing Lovaas for
3. Lost our shadow at the last minute and are looking for a special person
to join our established Lovaas team. Interested? email to mmcdeb@aol.com
SUBJECT:
Re: Teacher new to Autism
Date: 96-08-30 23:55:14 edt FROM: MetroLover
Hello,
I'm looking for any advise that anyone can give me. I'm a first year teacher.
My class consists of 10 Autistic individuals ranging in age from 16 to 22.
What sorts of things work best? Help!!!!
SUBJECT: Re:Teacher new to Autism
Date: 96-08-31 15:36:47 edt FROM: LouiseK446
I also work with that age range, am a second year teacher, and find that functional things work best, ie-daily living skills, independent vocational skills, personal hygiene skills, and any academics that they be able to do.
What functioning level are they? high or low? E-mail me at Louisek446 if
you need more help/assistance. Louise
SUBJECT: Re:medication and pdd
Date: 96-08-31 20:49:09 edt FROM: User102059
MY SON IS TAKING 20MG RITALIN AND 1/2 TAB OF CLONIDINE .O1MG.. 2X A DAY
..BUT TOOK A LIITLE WORK TO GET COMBINATION RIGHT....SEEMS TOO MUCH
CLONIDINE MADE HIM MORE AGGRESSIVE
SUBJECT: Down Syndrome and PDD
Date: 96-08-31 23:34:54 edt FROM: AkRhodey
Hi,
We live in Alaska and our 9 yr old daughter (considered to have high functioning Down Syndrome) was recently diagnosed with PDD, She is very verbal but she only repeats things she has heard before. She has adhd, some Ocd, is very oppositional and can read the wall street journal but doesn't comprehend. she memorizes 100's of videos but isnt interested in friendships.
She loves her daddy which is great but could take or leave the rest of the
family most of the time.
could someone contact us if they have a child similar or some specific info
thank you
SUBJECT: Orofaciodigital syndrome typ
Date: 96-08-31 23:38:43 edt FROM: AkRhodey
Anyone have a child with this syndrome Type one?
Please contact me with info or let us here about your child.
Thank You
SUBJECT: Re:Sibling Support Grp
Date: 96-08-31 23:47:30 edt FROM: AkRhodey
Contact
Don Meyer
Childrens Hosp And Med Ctr
Seattle, Wash
Call hosp at
206-526-2000 and ask for his number
He's great, his program is developed. and he has a grant and might be able to come to you and get you up and running . Nice man!!
SUBJECT: Re:To DParks-new student
Date: 96-09-01 10:28:29 edt FROM: SWEET FEE
Dr. Sennett,
I read your advice to the teacher with the new autistic child. I, myself, am a second year teacher. I teach Kindergarten and I have no special ed. training. I have a new student who is PDD/autistic. I have an assistant the entire day. The child does have an IEP. The child will not have an asistant provided, just myself and my wonderful assistant. The child attended the preschol program at our school last year. The child does speak in 2 word phrases. Are there any suggestions you can give me about how to go about instructing this child like anything special that I may need to do. I have been reading the bulletin board on autism so I can become familiar. Please help.
SUBJECT: Re:Orofaciodigital syndrome ty
Date: 96-09-01 17:11:21 edt FROM: HLC 594
Have you contacted the following:
National Foundation for Ectodermal Dysplasias
219 E. Main PO Box 114
Mascoutah, IL 62258-0114
618-566-2020
-Holly
PS-There are also groups in Canada.
SUBJECT: Re:Orofaciodigital syndrome
Date: 96-09-01 18:31:05 edt FROM: Eakasis
thank You! Ak
SUBJECT: Re:Orofaciodigital syndrome
Date: 96-09-03 18:20:57 edt FROM: HLC 594
You are most welcome!
PLEASE let me know what you find out and why the interest.
-Holly
SUBJECT: Re: Lovaas method
Date: 96-09-03 21:22:17 edt FROM: Tonymacman
Bancroft has a campus in Haddonfield, NJ, one in Mullica Hill NJ, and one in Owls Head Maine. I don't know of one in St. Louis, unless there is another Bancroft.
SUBJECT: Re:autism-computer software
Date: 96-09-03 21:36:56 edt FROM: Tonymacman
As someone who uses Macintosh computers in a school for "special needs" individuals, I wish more parents and educators were aware of the inherent ability of Macintosh computers when used with this particular population. An audio visual (AV) macintosh has input for a video camera. Images from the camera can be "captured", and, in effect, photos can be stored on the computer's hard drive. These photos can then be used in various applications, including authoring software such as HyperStudio, or HyperCard. With authoring software combined with an alternative keyboard, such as Intellikeys, CUSTOM, individualized solutions to special education needs can be designed and implemented in a way that can only be done on a Macintosh computer. Similarly, video can be stored on the hard drive as "movie clips", these "clips" can be used with authoring software to create a enormous array of custom training materials.
Just a few ideas!!
TonyMacMan
SUBJECT: Re:autism-computer software
Date: 96-09-05 18:32:25 edt FROM: HLC 594
Hi!
Would you mind serving as a resource for me?
I have a Mac at home and school. I teach children with multiple handicaps. I would like to expand on my knowledge and use of the technology at my fingertips.
I would really like to create some custom applications/programs but need a mentor to help me through it.
Interested?
-Holly
SUBJECT: social scripting-TLVail
Date: 96-09-07 20:49:09 edt FROM: Jones2B
I am a speech therapist just beginning my fourth year working with autistic children in the public school setting. I would really like to "talk" (e-mail) with you regarding what you have done with social scripting. This year, I have some kids on my caseload that I feel would benefit from that approach. I have always found social skills a difficult area to work on, and would love some fresh ideas. Please e-mail me at jones2b@aol.com. THANKS!!
SUBJECT: Re:Teaching Autistic Student
Date: 96-09-07 20:52:09 edt FROM: BDomina
Great homepage for teachers of the Autistic Impaired:
I have a 5 year old son iwth autism and have been using social stories with him. They really do work well with him. I always write them from his point of view and have used them to teach some social skill, bathroom skills and living skills. It takes a few weeks but all of a sudden I realize that he has the concept. Do you have the book(s) of Carol Grey's? They helped me alot in writing them. E=mail me if you would like more information.
Whereit@aol.com
SUBJECT: Re:Lovaas Tapes
Date: 96-09-07 21:57:43 edt FROM: Whereit
I currently use Applied Behavioral Anaylsis (ABA) with my son who has autism.
This can be called Lovass. It has been nothing short of a miracle for him. He has gone from a child that was totally non verbal, and just wanted to sit and rock all day to a child that can now tell me his wants and needs, shows emotions, and isnot only attending a special ed. preschool but also a "normal" one. Read the book "let me hear your voice" by Catherine Maurice. She also has a new book out that contains all sorts of programs to use with children of autism. Please e-mail me if you want to discuss this further.
SUBJECT: Teaching Autistic Children
Date: 96-09-08 21:51:14 edt FROM: RMTKB
I am a newly employed educational assistant charged with sole responsibility for a 13 year old autistic boy who cannot read, speaks very little (usually just repeats what he hears), and generally seems uneducated in basic skills. He feeds himself, toilets alone, and enjoys manual tasks such as wiping tables and stacking chairs. I would like to be more informed of ways to help him with some basic reading skills and help him to become more communicative. Autism is totally new to me. I need help in determining what I can expect to be able to accomplish and in getting myself educated quickly. Please e-mail me at RMTKB@aol.com and thank you!
SUBJECT: Re:Orofaciodigital syndrome
Date: 96-09-08 23:18:20 edt FROM: AkRhodey
I wrote this for my friend k.p. She has a three yr old with this and has almost no info, She would especially love hearing from parents'. Her daughter just started special needs preschool We live in Ak on an island; so you can imagine our resourses are limited. what is your interest?
Akrhodey
SUBJECT: Re:Social scripting
Date: 96-09-09 23:52:56 edt FROM: Cudgie
I'm a SLP in my first year of teaching. I have the SDC-SH class on my
caseload and 8 out of the 9 students are nonverbal autistic children. I am
interested in finding out more info on social scripting. Please e-mail me a
Cudgie@AOL.comm
SUBJECT: No Real Spec. Ed. Training
Date: 96-09-10 03:31:24 edt FROM: VeryBlessd
Like Sweet Fee, I am a 1st year First Grade teacher (after 6 years in K-2 classrooms) at a private, PK-12 college prep school . I have a girl described as PDD. She is an absolute angel. My admin swears that PDD isn't autism but there is no eye contact, she needs to be touched to respond, and has VERY little social interaction with her peers. She can write her name, the alphabet and numerals, is an excellent artist and loves books. So far, I've basically been told to let her "exist" in the classroom. I can't do that. I have only 20 students (another new boy has a severe speech piece and exhibits similar behaviors to the girl-all I was told before school was that when they admitted him, they thought he might have a slight learning difference) and a full-time classroom assistant with even less training in this area than myself. The school has no resources for these students, the parents (and school) deny that PDD is in any way related to autism. Am I up a creek?
SUBJECT: PDD is autism?
Date: 96-09-10 15:58:07 edt FROM: Way7SAC10
Some say PDD is high functioning autism. Certainly the techiniques that help high-functioning students with autism could help here. Autism gets a bad rap in the public awareness arena, and that needs to stop. i'll bet I find those parents at every autism conference & cure infomerical that exists, yet they won't say thir kid has autism, thus the PR problem.
SUBJECT: Re:Orofaciodigital syndrome
Date: 96-09-10 19:50:23 edt FROM: HLC 594
Hi!
I am a teacher not a parent but you might find this information useful!
Contact: The National Foundation for Ectodermal Dysplasias
219 E. Main PO Box 114
Mascoutah, IL 62258-0114
618-566-2020
They also have groups in Canada.
Please let me know what you find out!
-Holly
SUBJECT: Re:autism-computer software
Date: 96-09-10 20:12:44 edt FROM: MELASha RE
Tonymacman
I'm just learning about all that stuff and agree with you. There are a
wealth of ideas out there
Sheila
SUBJECT: Re:The PDD claim
Date: 96-09-11 00:06:56 edt FROM: AMccoy1011
PDD is also what a lot of people, including teachers, parents, doctors and other professionals use when they don't want to say autism. Denying the problem or understating it will not help the child in any way. BEWARE!! I am the mother of two autistic boys, I know what I'm talking about!!
SUBJECT:
Re: The PDD claim
Date: 96-09-11 17:25:49 edt FROM: TLVAIL
Sometimes you have to be careful just using initials. In NC, up until this year, PDD stood for Preschool Developmentally Delayed. A term used to describe children with a with range of delays ( at least 1.3SD in 2 areas or 3 in one area)- Many people confused the term with Pervasive Developmental Disorder so it was changed to PD/Preschool Delayed.
SUBJECT: Re:social
scripting-TLVail
Date: 96-09-11 17:32:38 edt FROM: TLVAIL
I see scripting as a wonderful opportunity for inlusion therapy and a great
way to get some of the higher functioning AU kids into the mainstream
effectively. I start by going in and observing and taping some kindergarten
kiddos playing during center time or at recess. The phrases used most often
are incorporated into a "play script"- I've also used the scripts already
prepared in "Enginering Preschool Programs"-They have Boardmaker pictures
that go with them that help with those that need visual cues. I havn't heard
of Carol Gray's book- What's the name of it and where can I get it? I've
seen the most positive communicative and social changes in the kids I'm using
scripting with- I love it! Tracy
SUBJECT: Re:Teacher new to Autism
Date: 96-09-11 20:35:22 edt FROM: BDomina
There is a homepage specifically for teachers of the Autistic Impaired.
CBreacy6984 - Just saw your message - hope this might help. There is a good school on the north shore of Boston called the North Shore Education Consortium that serves about ten towns in their area. There is also an Autism Support Center in Danvers that can refer you to services wherever you are in the Boston area - we have found them a great help. Good luck with your move.
CASinMA
SUBJECT: Re:Lovaas and speech
Date: 96-09-12 13:32:21 edt FROM: MKalani
Would you please send me informaiton on the Lovaas method, or send the titles
of a few good books on this method? You can email, because I am seldom on
the message board. Thank you very much!
zoeie@umich.edu
SUBJECT: Teacher needs help
Date: 96-09-14 16:54:39 edt FROM: Carleolady
I'm a teacher with a background in working with autistic children but I'm stumped with this situation. If anybody has any suggestions and would like to dialogue about this I would really appreciate it. In their great wisdom, my sp ed district has decided this year to move a class of profoundly retarded (functionally) children to a regular school site. We're talking 6 (only four have showed up , thank god) children ages 9-14, diapered. Two wheelchairs, one (another possibly coming) severely autistic 12 year old. All of thesechildren are used to being in a special school with opportunities for vestibular stimulation in the room (swings), bathrooms adjoining the classroom. We're (my two aides and I) of having to take the ambulatory kids to the bathrooms across campus for training! Forget the training...there isn't the time. IEP goals??? The girl with autism needs a structure that I'm finding extremely difficult to provide given the wide range of abilities and needs of these special needs kids. Bathrooming, lifting, feeding, etc. Plus, my room came completely non-equipped with educational materials and I'm having to scrounge. I should say that all the kids function on a sensory/motor level except one that we're trying desparately to get to an appropriate class. She's like a two-year old...very busy, exploring. Between her and the autistic child, who tears apart the room and eats everything ( I mean everything) we have our hands more than full. Short of complaining long and loud to the powers that be (I have already) any suggestions?????
Elaine
SUBJECT: Re:No Real Spec. Ed. Trainin
Date: 96-09-14 23:26:08 edt FROM: Carjoja
I'm a parent of a 6-yr. old, 1st grade, autistic boy. According to the DSM-IV, which is the manual that professionals use to diagnose mental disorders, etc., autism is a sub-group of PDD (pervasive developmental disorder). In my experience with friends and associates, I have learned that PDD is often used for cases that closely resemble autism, but for some reason or another, do not meet the diagnostic criteria for the autistic diagnosis. Doesn't matter, you teach them the same way. By the way, I'm also a special education teacher's aide for an autistic child.
SUBJECT: Re:BEHAVIORAL PROBLEMS
Date: 96-09-15 12:47:39 edt FROM: Dmt089
There are alot of resources in N.Y.C. AMAC has a good recreation program and they know the whole spectrum of austistic behavior. YAI has a behavior management training for parents. I am waiting to go to it. Also I visited dist.75's autistic program, and they have a great behavior management program. My son goes to Hallen School in Westchester county. I would send him to it but since he is high functioning, he would have to do all his academic work alone. Also go to the Autistic Society's meetings and other parent support groups because it is good to talk to other parents.
SUBJECT:
Re: Hyperlexia and Autism
Date: 96-09-15 13:02:56 edt FROM: Dmt089
My son is 10 and hyperlexia, PDDNOS. He is interested in language but he can't understand how to use it appropiately. He is always apologizing and he can't understand when you do not and why some people do not when they are supposed to. Right now, he discovered a book called Street Talk 1 and he is studying slang, substituting slang for words he knows. It is pretty funny. He offered the book to his brother and wants to know how come he knows it without studying. I help him but he seems to make the choices of what he wants to know. He knows multication tables but can not apply it to real life, he can't even apply addition to real life.
SUBJECT: Autism research paper
Date: 96-09-15 18:15:35 edt FROM: Samlav
I am a senior elem./spec. ed. major at Duquesne University in Pittsburgh, PA. For my Severe & Profound Disabilities class, I have been assigned to an on-going report on Autism. The first question I must tackle is as follows:
Discuss the primary assumptions underlying the ecological model you might use in teaching autistic persons.
Any information I could receive would be greatly appreciated. Thank you!!
--Maureen
SUBJECT: Re:Hyperlexia and Autism
Date: 96-09-16 00:22:54 edt FROM: SusanS29
"He offered the book to his brother and wants to know how come he knows it without studying."
Tell him that different people learn in different ways and that his best way is from books, but that not everyone is like that.
SUBJECT: Re:Teacher needs
help
Date: 96-09-17 19:39:33 edt FROM: ShelleyHL
Inclusion is a wonderful thing for many children with special needs. It is my opinion that this concept is not beneficial unless proper training, supports, funding and most importantly administrative support are in place.
Inclusion is not merely placing a child in a regular classroom. The child
should still be given the opportunities to fulfill the goals and objectives
set forth on the IEP. It is my understanding that these goals are set forth
first and then an appropriate environment to meet these goals is decided
upon. I hope this was taken into consideration for your students. Now the
other side...when we first started inclusion in our school there were
naysayers about even the most uncomplicated students. For the sake of your
students (and yourself!) you will need to become a "can do" person. It
sounds like you need some further supports, but I don't really have the total
picture here so I can't say for sure. Good luck...there are many people out
there in your shoes. Shelley
SUBJECT: RE:Inclusion
Date: 96-09-18 13:59:26 edt FROM: Way7SAC10
Shelly, you are on the right track here. Inclusion, on paper looks good; feels good; sounds good and is an easy sell. But until the autism advocacy community puts a realistic public awareness/education campaign in front of inclusion, our "at risk" population may be included into situations which have the potential for disaster.
SUBJECT: Re:Teacher needs help
Date: 96-09-18 17:38:43 edt FROM: SusanS29
"Inclusion is a wonderful thing for many children with special needs. It is my opinion that this concept is not beneficial unless proper training, supports, funding and most importantly administrative support are in place. Inclusion is not merely placing a child in a regular classroom. "
You're absolutely right.
SUBJECT: Hyperlexia
Date: 96-09-19 17:19:57 edt FROM: BKirby914
The American Hyperlexia Association has a web page at
http://www.hyperlexia.org
This is an excellent source of information and resources..
SUBJECT: Re:Teacher
needs help
Date: 96-09-19 22:33:16 edt FROM: Carleolady
Thanks Susan and Shelley for your comments. In my situation, there was not a lot of thought put into this transition from special school to regular school. I should say, that this is a separate classroom of special needs kids in a regular school. There are no supports for including these kids in the regular classroom. The idea was just to have them on a regular campus. Unfortunately, in this case, I have had to scrounge for everything..., and I feel that the campus is not particularly safe (open) for my "runners"...But my biggest complaint is that these 9-14 year old profoundly retarded children are not ina facility which allows them (and staff) to work on their toilet training. No..their IEP goals will NOT be met in this area. And it seems that we are going to be getting MORE kids because there is no place else to put them. I generally am a positive, "can-do" person and I am doing my best to keep a positive outlook on this whole situation...but it's hard without the equipment and facilities to support it. Thanks for listening everyone. I guess this is getting away from autism and should be in the inclusion folder!!
Elaine
SUBJECT: Inclusion
Date: 96-09-19 22:35:07 edt FROM: Carleolady
Thanks, "Way" for your comments. My sentiments, exactly....I love working with autistic children, but can only be as effective as the environment in which we're placed!
Elaine
SUBJECT: Re:Teacher needs help
Date: 96-09-20 21:01:07 edt FROM: STEVE PATG
And I thought I had it rough! You poor thing! Isn't it frustrating when no one seems to understand? I had that with my multiply handicapped class for awhile; it seemed like everyone just wanted to turn their backs and make me deal with it. Fortunately, attitudes seemed to change once the initial shock of seeing these kids wore off. I am in a public setting too (grades 3-5), but we are starting to bring in severely handicapped and autistic kids. I know it is difficult to deal with limited materials and resources. We don't have PT or OT rooms-the therapists either work in my room or out of closets. For what it's worth, I will tell you what seemed to help my situation. Maybe something will be helpful. Since I needed help (last year I had 5 kids and no aide), I trained 4th graders to work with my easier kids, reading to them, playing games, coloring, etc. This helped also with forming friendships and providing acceptance among students and staff. The kids often came in during their recess to help. We had New Kids on the Block puppet show visit our school to talk about disabilities. I invited my principle in whenever something different was happening. The entire year was hard-I was also pregnant so I worried about body fluids and lifting all year too. This year is much better so far. Since we have 10 kids (2 in walkers), I have a class aide plus two 1:1 aides for the physically handicapped children. Since there are so many adults and we saw the need for a common planning time, I put a video on once a week just so that we can all talk and problem solve. I recently visited the 99 cents store to buy materials for stimulation-nail brushes, interlocking blocks, sorting trays etc. I bought great timers from Radio Shack for each of us, so that different kids can be on reinforcement schedules. They can count forward and backward, and they beep for up to a minute before they stop. We have 2 students on 5 minute reinforcement schedules (5 minutes of work, 5 minutes of free time). Since one child often has difficulty transitioning to new tasks, we pair this reinforcement with an edible when he comes back to the work area quickly. I got lucky-one of my 1:1 aides worked in an excellent private school, and he is well-trained in b-mod techniques. If you think something like this may help with management, call around to area private schools to see if they offer training or have any suggestions. I'm finding that I'm learning a lot from my aide, but I still am lacking in knowledge. My special ed background was primarily mild to moderately handicapped, so I'm entering new territory. Providing vestibular stim is a hard one-we have often thought that swings would be great for our kids too. I don't know how you are managing without a bathroom. Do you have any kindergarten rooms in your school? We were lucky to get an old one (our school changed from K-5 to grades 3-5), so this helps although it is not handicap accessible.Any chance of getting volunteers to assist with stimulation activities? I really feel for you-it is SO frustrating when you know what the kids need and your hands are tied so you can't provide it. Good luck, and keep your chin up. Things seem tough all over, anymore. You certainly aren't alone in your struggle!
SUBJECT: Landau Kleffner Syndrome
Date: 96-09-20 22:01:56 edt FROM: Sten1971
If anyone has information that they can share about this disablity please contact me. I currently work with a four year old boy who was diagnosed with LKS almost two years ago. I would appreciate any help I could get. Thank you. Please E-Mail me at Sten 1971.
SUBJECT: Add To RE: Teacher Struggle
Date: 96-09-21 17:49:41 edt FROM: Way7SAC10
Steve PATG says the teachers have it rough, they do. And so do the parents who are desperately looking for help, will spend the rest of their lives with their children, and are totally unprepared for it. No degree, no training, just, hopefully, lots of love, patience & savvy. And, of course, no choice in the matter, career or otherwise. Let's support more & better parent-teacher collaborations. Teachers & other professionals: don't feel bad about asking us parents for some help when you are short of funds or staff. We have a the highest stake in making this work. We want to help.
SUBJECT: Re:
Teacher Needs Help
Date: 96-09-21 20:09:04 edt FROM: STEVE PATG
Hi Carleolady-
Just came across an adaptive swing in a catalog and thought of you. I don't know if it could help, or if you even have a budget, but Jesana Ltd. (800) 443-4728 has a regular swing on a frame for people up to 120 lbs., and it sells for $135. Adaptable swing seats are also available and range from $175 to $350. They also have various other equipment and materials.
SUBJECT:
Carleolady needs help
Date: 96-09-22 01:33:59 edt FROM: Carleolady
Thanks, Pat(you didn't sound like a Steve!), and "way" for your comments and suggestions. You gave me some good ideas-haven't really thought about the 99cent store-I'll try that.
And I have been wanting to bring in peer teachers, the behavior of the autistic child up till now has prevented that. But it's getting better. She's calming down.
I must admit my behavior mod training is lacking, probably because I really don't do well with that style of teaching. I know, what am I doing in spec ed? Haven't worked with really low kids before and my way of working with autistic children has been closer the Option Method which doesn't work too wellin a classroom where you can't be1:1 with the child for very long of a time. Last 10 years has been with Early Intervention...mostly parent ed/and mommy/baby classes/ home visits.
NOTHING is going to change the bathroom situation. Yes, we walk each child (sometimes two at a time) to the bathrooms-about an 8 minute round trip-we'd be sitting in bathrooms all day if we did toilet training the right way, as written on their ieps. One little girl is quite good at using the picture board to tell us what she wants. She is always pointing at the "toilet". Well, ideally, we should be able to take her to the toilet every time. Unfortunately that is impossible. What a mess.
Friday, I did feel a breakthrough with Patty, my autistic child. Now that she has the room organized the way she wants it-very little on the walls, everyting in its place-she is beginning to tolerate minor changes. For instance, instead of taking things that are "out of place" and throwing them over a barrier, she now puts them in a carton placed on a work table. Yay! A big step for Patty! Still, she fights going outside to the huge playground and I feel for her...but we HAVE to have recess. Found out on Friday that we're going to be getting more students because the special ed classes at the special school are overcrowded. But we're going to get kids that are the "cream of the crop", that is, they apparently are in diapers but will go to the bathroom on schedule. GREAT. That means more back and forth bathroom trips. This is not a great scenario. First grade, regular ed is starting to look real good. BUT....I'm hanging in there for now.
Thanks, all.
SUBJECT: Autism and pets
Date: 96-09-23 12:32:34 edt FROM: CLennerton
I am looking for any information regarding the use of pets/pet care with autistic children.
SUBJECT: Re:Teacher needs help
Date: 96-09-23 18:06:03 edt FROM: HLC 594
Hi Elaine,
I am a teacher of children with multiple handicaps. I teach in a self-contained classroom on an elementary school campus.
I missed the beginning of this post. If you want to share stories drop me a line!
-Holly
SUBJECT: Inclusion of 2nd Grader
Date: 96-09-24 22:01:53 edt FROM: LTaylorRCT
I am a second grade teacher who has a high functioning autistic student. This student reads at at the 2.3 or 3.1 level. His comprehension and oral communication are both weak. I have read through almost every message board and have obtained many great resources. Currently, I would appreciate any information that could help validate the use of an aide for this student. Any information that could be used to help me obtain an aide to assist this student would be helpful.
SUBJECT: Compulsive Eating with Autism
Date: 96-09-27 15:59:52 edt FROM: Kellersi
I have a four year old student in my who has autism who is a compulsive eater. I have never seen a child with autism who is not picky about food. This student grabs and eats his food, others and out of the trash can. He knows where the food is kept in the class and will pull over chairs and tables to get to it. His mother must keep a lock on the refrigerator. Has anyone seen another child like this with autism? E-mail me at Kellersi.
SUBJECT:
Re: Compulsive Eating with Auti
Date: 96-09-27 20:09:23 edt FROM: SusanS29
There is a childhood condition-I think it might be Willer-Pradi Syndrome
-- that includes this unusual pattern. Maybe you can find some information on that on the Internet?
SUBJECT: Re:Autism and pets
Date: 96-09-28 08:05:20 edt FROM: Bettybech
In response to:
Date: 96-09-23 12:32:34 edt FROM: CLennerton
>I am looking for any information regarding the use of pets/pet care with autistic children.
The place I take my daughter for speech and music therapy has a new
pet-assisted therapy program. For more information on pet therapy, contact
the Delta Society 800-869-6898 or 74403.1730@Compuserve.com
Good luck!
Betty
SUBJECT: NEEDED-HOME PROGRAM-MASS.
Date: 96-09-28 18:47:30 edt FROM: SWhite7777
Hi,
I'm looking for someone to come to my home(it is funded through the sped Dept.) to work one to one with my PDD son using a curriculum based off of Rutgers Univ. with Discreet Trial Teaching method. He is 4 and very adorable and extremely bright.
Thank-you
susan w.
SWHITE7777@aol.com
SUBJECT: Re:Applied behavior analysis
Date: 96-09-28 18:51:15 edt FROM: SWhite7777
Hello,
Where are you located? I have great resources pertaining to ABA. Please
e=mail me at SWHITE7777@aol.com
Sincerely,
Susan W.
SUBJECT: Re:Discreet Trial
Date: 96-09-28 18:52:52 edt FROM: SWhite7777
Hi,
You can e-mail me and I WILL hook you up with someone. I have connections all over the world.
Glad to Help,
Susan
SWHITE7777@aol.com
SUBJECT: Re:school districts in Bosto
Date: 96-09-28 19:03:26 edt FROM: SWhite7777
Hi there,
I live southwest of Boston. It depends on what type of program you are looking for. I feel I have a pretty good handle on towns in the Bay state.
My e-mail is swhite7777@aol.com
SUBJECT: Re:Lovaas technique
Date: 96-09-28 19:05:33 edt FROM: SWhite7777
Hi Ann,
My son use to throw chairs-t.v.'s and had NO speech. We are blessed to have found a program that not only addresses behavior but language and academics.
My e-mail is SWHITE7777@aol.com
SUBJECT: Prader-Willi syndrome
Date: 96-09-29 20:38:54 edt FROM: Mredeb
This disorder is characterized by compulsive eating and often children with this syndrome may have other developmental delays. They need to be watched and counseled about nutrition as they have no control about when, why and how much they eat. In our state, New Mexico, there is a state-wide project that studies these children and counsels school districts on how to accommodate them in regular school settings.
SUBJECT: Signing Off
Date: 96-09-30 13:23:25 edt FROM: Way7SAC10
Signing off AOL today. It has been fun posting. Anyone who desires can snail mail: Dennis Debbaudt, 17167 Ontario St., Detroit MI 48224. I answer all mail & still have opinions intact. Good Bye & Have some fun!!
SUBJECT: safety unit
Date: 96-09-30 18:37:01 edt FROM: Borden O
Hi there all, I am a speech/language pathologist working w/ moderate-severely autistic students aged 7 yrs to 12 yrs. Does anyone have any ideas re: teaching fire safety? One parent concerned about son's curiosity in matches, candles, etc. Thanks! e-mail me, please.
Borden O@aol.com.
SUBJECT: Re; Lovaas & Speech/language
Date: 96-09-30 19:14:04 edt FROM: Borden O
Some great resources for speech/language development:
from Univ. No. Carolina (TEACCH) Activities for Teaching Autistic Children
contact Autism Society Bookstore-North Carolina for Visual Strategies for
Improving Communication-great resource for teachers & speech path's
Teach Me Language-also excellent http://Fox.NSTN.Ca:80^zacktam/
Good Luck! Lee Ann Borden, SLP
SUBJECT: need tips to teach PDD child
Date: 96-10-02 01:49:39 edt FROM: ARABIYA007
HI,
I just started teaching a kindergarten enrichment class. I have a six yr old boy in the class who has been diagnosed with PDD. In the few days I have observed that he has great difficulties in transitions in activites that include leaving or coming back to the classroom. He displays ten minute violent, aggressive tantrums. I am wondering what is the best way to deal with this situation . I would like to get him more involved with the class activities to prevent his boredom and frustration. I have observed 3-5 word phrases in speech. How realistic is this and what other measures are taken to assist in helping PDD children in regular classrooms. He does have an IEP which I have read over.
I would greatly appreciate any info or tips through this post or email at
ARABIYA007@aol.com
Thanks
SUBJECT: Re:Inclusion
Date: 96-10-02 18:19:23 edt FROM: DWest49523
It has also been found however, that autistic children who are in a class with other autistic children do not have the role models that they need to improve their social skills. I teach in a school district that has inclusion, and I feel that if the IEP is written correctly, inclusion can be of great benefit to autistic children.
SUBJECT: Re:safety unit
Date: 96-10-04 00:42:29 edt FROM: Okuhara
Dear Borden O,
Have you thought about trying social stories related to fire safety? Social stories are fairly new to me, but it might be worth a try.
SUBJECT: Re:need tips
to teach PDD ch
Date: 96-10-04 00:48:26 edt FROM: Okuhara
Dear ARABIYA007,
With my autistic student I use photographs or symbols during transition periods to both prepare them for the transition and to keep them focused. For example, when it is time to change classrooms, they can carry a picture of the teacher to whom they are going. If they are going from a classroom to lunch, they can carry a plasticware pack. If I use a symbolic picture the Mayer-Johnson materials work very well. Other symbols I use include a sweatband for PE, a bell for music, a paintbrush for art, sunglasses for outside, a clothespin for worktime, and a toy bus for busride home.
