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 Hi
My granddaughter is 13 months old. She screams all the time. She doesn't say any words either. She is really hyper too. Could these be signs of autism.
Answer The answer to your question is Yes, it could mean autism as not talking, hyperactivity and screaming are signs of autism at that age. I have a few questions for you. Send this email back with the answers and we can go a little further to see what's going on with her:
1. Does she "talk" using baby talk. In other words, when she is playing, is she having baby talk conversations that sound like talking but are just babbling sounds?
2. Does she come when you call her?
3. Does she listen when you say "NO"
4. Does she recognize the names of family members? So when you say, mommy's here, she turns her head to her mommy?
5. Does she play pat-a-cake and peekaboo?
6. Does she sit still long enough to listen to someone reading her a story?
7. Is she finicky with what she eats? Her clothing?
8. Does she have trouble doing something new?
9. Does she line up items
10. Does she have repetitive behaviors?
Valerie Herskowitz, MA CCC-SLP
www.valerieherskowitz.com
Author: Autism and Computers: Maximizing Independence Through Technology
