Expert: Tim Runner - 3/14/2009

Question
Hello Tim,

My son's latest sccores show a high discrepency in nonverbal and verbal (stanford binet). He is currently under autism for education, 1:1 aide, and diagnosed pdd-nos with possible NLD.  His latest findings are Aspergers and NLD.  Why not just the Aspergers?  Is is possible to meet criteria for both?  I was told it's more of a learning profile NLD so it will help in planning instruction. Also, will it be best for him to remain in the autism category?  If too much emphasis is placed on NLD, then he would be considered OHI, but then the other particulars related to a more autistic nature would not be considered. There is a current debate/controversy over Aspergers being associated with autism. Due to the misinformed and preconceived notions regarding autism, my son doesn't present as autistic. But, I don't want him labeled OHI, which is ambiguous. Is there any other category besides autism that would encompass NLD and Aspergers?

Also, why would a psych put more emphasis on the NLD,when my son was already on spectrum and his IQ profile met criteria for Aspergers? Why not call it AS and cite the learning style under Aspergers? I don't think a Learning Disorder such as NLD defines my son best based on what I know about him and his apparent strengths, along with fine motor skills, visual spatial abilities etc.  It seems as if professionals (highly reputable btw) struggle with my son's profile. Is it common to diagnose Aspergers and NLD together?  Thank you for your insights.  

Answer
Liz,

I think it more important that your son receive the services he needs rather than being concerned about NLD. I'm not qualified to address diagnosis of Aspergers and NLD together. There is no other category that will encompass these two. Aspergers is on the Autism spectrum so he should qualify in this category. OHI is a catch all for kids that don't really qualify in another category.

I really can't determine what categories best meet his needs without doing a complete case review. Usually kids qualifying under Autism don't have secondary qualification categories. Rather their needs are addressed in the selection of services and the accommodations listed in their IEP.

I wish you and your son the best,
Tim Runner, Education Advocate
Email: timrunner@cox.net
You can learn more at my web site:
www.special-education-answers.com
www.education-advocates.com (for DSL and phone)