WEAP--WI Early Autism Project
Initial Assessment June 30, 2011
Tired of waiting for our appointment at Mercy, and losing my patience with the Waisman Center (total waste of time), Aiden finally got a diagnosis today at the WEAP Center. Aiden was diagnosed with PDD--NOS, pervasive development disorder not otherwise specified--a "label" on the autistic spectrum. He qualifies for services (minimum of 20 hours/week), but the wait for the "waiver program"--meaning we wouldn't pay for services out of pocket--is a year or longer. Very sad. The one thing that everyone can agree on in regards to autism is EARLY INTERVENTION is KEY, and yet, my 3-1/2 year old waits once more. Even if I went back to work full-time (which isn't going to happen if my life depends on it), we couldn't afford to pay for his therapy. My last hope at this point is Mercy Options. If nothing else, I've learned enough from Aiden's speech therapy to develop a speech program on my own. The sensory stuff? Not a clue! I'll just pray that Aiden doesn't regress before Early Childhood begins again in September. Summer school ends mid-July...
How do I feel about this? Disappointed, frustrated, and sad that I can't get more help for my son.
Yes, there are things that you can do! You can spin him which helps the post-rotary nystagmus reflex. Sounds crazy, but it helps! Do they still have a toy called sit and spin? If so, get one!! He can do this on his own and he will learn to love it! Also, using a swing and spinning him or a merry-go-round. Another sensory problem is that of proprioception. You need to encourage impulses from his body to the brain. This helps the brain develop! We used vibration to the feet, hands, legs, mouth, and anywhere he is sensitive to touch. What other sensory problems does he have? Is he sensitive to sound? some sound? Visual problems? What does he do? I can help!
ReplyDeleteIn April, you posted a blog about the seminar you went to and what the OTR mentioned was helpful. Use this info! This IS therapy! Anything you can do will help at this age, especially before the age of 9.
ReplyDeleteGet used to disappointment, frustration, and sadness...you'll see a lot of it. However, you will also find joy in every advancement. It's slow, but it will happen! Find the keys to him by watching him. Use language with play and movement!