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Autism/diagnostician is trying to trick us??
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Question
I have a 3 yr 9mth old little girl who has a very possible sensory processing disorder and is questionable to whether or not she is on the spectrum. I am in the process of going through the school evaluations for PPCD in our local school district and several things the diagnostician said today has me confused and rather upset. First, is delayed echolalia a normal finding in a 3.5 yr old? Also, can autistic behaviors be learned?? I was chastised for taking my little girl to an autistic group that she has been making progress in (even though I tried to explain that there were no autistic children in the group). I am confused and could use a helpful answer!
HI Carolyn
I don't totally understand the issue, but I will answer your questions.
Delayed echolalia is not a normal part of language development.
Can autistic behaviors be learned? A child can not become autistic by being around someone with autism. But I don't understand what you are taking your child to: an autistic group with no autistic children? I don't understand. Regardless-if she is making progress, then it sounds like a good program
Hope this helps a little
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Answers by Expert:
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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