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Autism/possible autism in grandchildren

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Expert: - 10/22/2010


Question
I have a 5year old granddaughter and a 3year old grandson. My granddaughter was diagnosed as having "sensory sensitivities" at the age of 3, and wasn't fully potty trained until nearly 4. My grandson, age 3 shows no interest in potty training, was slow to speak, and does not use words to express his needs or wants, he often acts as if he doesn't hear you although his hearing is normal, he has very poor interaction with his peers and acts violent toward them often. his school wants him tested for ADHD, but we think it seems more like Autistic behavior. He is very smart, learning the entire alphabet before 2yrs old and loves anything with letters, numbers, or towers. Could both children have a form of Autism? Thanks for your advise.

Answer
Hi Tracy

It's sounding so-I don't know about your granddaughter-you weren't specific on how she is doing now, though you mention the sensory issues. She may have just a sensory issue or it may be part and parcel of a global disorder. But your grandson does seem to have several red flags for a developmental disorder. I would highly recommend getting them both evaluated immediately.

Good luck and let me know how it goes

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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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