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Autism/does my 2 yr old have autism

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Question
my son is 2 in july and im concerned he doesn't speak apart from ta and dad,hates crowds of people,doen't interact with children,can turn around in circles for an age,likes to put his blanket on his head and tiptoe,totally does not respond if concentrating does my son have autism?

Answer
There is a distinct possibility that your child is on the autism spectrum. Not talking at age two, hating crowds of people, turning in circles, tiptoing, and lack of response are all characteristics.

You should go forth with getting him tested. Since he is only two, your community should offer a free Early Intervention program. Call your pediatrician or local school for the number in your area. Once the evaluation is completed, they will start minimal speech therapy with him. You will want to supplement it with your own home program or extra private therapy. I can help you with this component. Just e-mail me at:
info@valerieherskowitz.com if you want my assistance.

You can also go and visit a developmental pediatrician or child psychologist who has experiences in autism.

It is great that you identified these characteristics in your son at such a young age. Starting therapy early is the key.

Valerie Herskowitz, MA CCC-SLP
www.valerieherskowitx.com

Autism

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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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