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Autism/my stepson
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hi, my stepson is turning three this june, and doesnt speak very well he says no and shutup alot. when he wants something he will just point and and grunt. he is constantly throwing a fit when he doesnt get his way throwing himself on the floor and hitting his head on whatever he can. he has a very short temper, when he trys to do something and cant such as put his shoes on or his coat he punches it kicks, and screams. He doesnt respond to you when you tell him to come to you or to do something. he just looks at you like he doesnt understand. He also makes very weird facial expresions.
It really sounds like he is having some issues. I definitely think something is going on with him. The two red flags are the fact that he is speech delayed and he has way too short of a fuse. Please bring him to a pediatric neurologist. He will need speech and occupational therapy. I can help set up a home therapy program in the meantime. Just let me know.
Valerie Herskowitz, MA CCC-SLP
valerieherskowitz.com
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Answers by Expert:
Valerie Herskowitz
Expertise
I am an autism expert and speech pathologist (for over 30 years). I am also the parent of a child with autism. I can answer any question on autism dealing with communication, education, behavior and diet. I cannot answer questions that are medical in nature or are dealing with medications.
Experience
I have run a therapy center for individuals with autism since 1981. I lecture all over the country. I also teach classes on autism on line.
Organizations
Vice President of Communications Florida Association of Speech-Language Pathologists and Audiologists
Member American Speech and Hearing Association,
MembernAutism Society of America,
President of the National Autism Registry,
Vice President of the Association for Developmentally Disabled Adults and Adolescents.
Publications
Autism Society of America's national publication (September 2008).
Advance Magazine,
South Florida Parenting,
Spectrum Magazine,
I am the author of: Autism and Computers: Maximizing Independence Through Technology (available:www.valerieherskowitz.com)
Education/Credentials
I have a masters degree in speech pathology
Awards and Honors
I won a Stevie Award in 2004: Lifetime Achievement Award for my work with individuals with autism. My therapy center won, Judge's Choice Award Best Center in South Florida by South Florida Parenting magazine 2005.
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