Autism/autism

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QUESTION: My daughter is still not pointing with one finger. She motions towards things when she wants them but with an entire spread hand. She babbles a lot, shares her toys and loves to play peek a boo. I am not really sure if she really know her name either. I was wondering how linked the single finger point is and if the not knowing her name, has any relation to autism.

Thanks so much!
Jenn

ANSWER: How old is she? Yes-the finger pointing and not responding to her name is an issue-all depending on her age. So-please write me back and tell me how old she is.

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Sorry-totally forgot about the age- she just turned 13 months this week. She has been early on all other mile stones (walking/sititng/etc.) she responds to her name sometimes

Answer
I have a short developmental evaluation that I do for young children. If you are concerned, we can do it on the phone. It takes only about 1 hour all told. If this is something that you would like to do, please email me at info@valerieherskowitz.com, and I will tell you how to register for that service. I go through a test which has many questions to determine if you child is where she should be.

I would be happy to help you further.

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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