Expert: Valerie Herskowitz - 5/5/2009

Question
Hi Valerie,
I wanted to follow up with you regarding my one year old. Her eye contact has improved a lot, but she still at 1 has no gestures or meaningful words or interactive play other than pulling our hands from our face with peekaboo. We will be going to a college research site for Autism that is well known in early intervention next week to have her evaluated and either get a diagnosis or not.  We have OT (SI) started, as well as the speech eval just completed.  No matter what the outcome of next week-she still needs intervention.  She is a sensory seeker--and we have increased her exposure in that area A LOT. (although, sleep is now an issue worse than ever! :) )   We try to take her hand and help her point (she only reaches if she wants something) but she gets VERY upset if we take her hands. It's like we are "invading" her space and she doesn't like that.   How can we help in this area?  Should we just keep trying despite her dislike?   She is so young that we want to do everything possible with early intervention, yet we are also in awe at all the options and how to figure out what she needs.  Any input into how to evaluate this as well would be appreciated.  Thanks again!  We started doing some of your previous suggestions (ball down the steps,etc..) and as mentioned....the eye contact is great.

Answer
I wouldn't do what you are doing with her hands if she objects. She is sensory-wise, uncomfortable with you doing that. Plus, if she never points-that's ok. What you need to focus on now communication-wise is the following:
1. establishing cause and effect
2. increasing her ability to understand

I will be interested in the results of your evaluation. Also-I would like to see your speech eval and goals. Remember, I am available for formal consultations and can help you establish your program.

You are on the right track and I applaud you for getting started!!

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