AboutValerie 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 American Speech and Hearing Association,
Autism 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.
Question We are raising our grandson who was diagnosed with autism last oct. We are now going through eating concerns..he will go months on end without eating a thing maybe a cracker here and there..we give him carnation instant breakfast and pediasure at night. His doctor doesn't seem to concerned about it and says all autistic kids go through this..We are not comfortable with it..Is there something we can do..Also him seeing food he does not like he will gag constantly is this normal..Just looking for some clues.. Never in a million years did we anitsipate this, but he is very special to us and we want to do what we can and do it right..thanks
Answer Hi Colleen
First of all, how old is your grandson? I am guessing since he was recently diagnosed, probably around 3 years old.
Secondly, though many children with autism are finicky about foods, your grandson is way over the top with this. Your doctor need be very concerned about it as he can't go on forever on carnation instant breakfast and Pediasure.He needs help-and the sooner the better.
You must immediately start working with someone who has a lot of experience with autism and eating issues. He has extreme sensory issues in his mouth that are causing him to not only have issues with eating the foods, but the sight and smell as well. I can also help you with this if you want to work with me as this is an area that I have worked with frequently. We can arrange phone conferences if you like to start the process. Just let me know.
This is not only not normal, but it is not something that even in a child with autism should be treated as "an oh well-never mind." I would like to ask you doctor if he would be concerned if the child didn't have autism.
Let me know if you want more information about what I can do to help you.
