Expert: Valerie Herskowitz - 5/19/2010

Question
Hello Valerie,
I have a 9 year old daughter that some say might need to be tested for autism, but I'm not sure.  I realize there is a broad spectrum and I'm not familiar with all the aspects.  Her behaviors include: obsession with all things animal related (books, TV shows, stuffed animals), she is highly sensitive, has a need for things to be perfect and becomes upset when they aren't, takes everything literally, has a very "black %26 white" attitude (there is no grey area in any situation), and struggles to make friends.  She recently told me the girls at school call her "weird".  She is involved with the school's GT program and would much rather spend time with a book than at a social gathering.  She opts out of music programs at school, she asks to take toys for recess so she has something to play with, and doesn't even want to participate in most field trips.  I'm concerned about her lack of social skills and don't know where to go for help.  Thank you for your time!

Answer
HI Angie

Whether your child is on the spectrum for autism or not, she most certainly needs help. I don't know where you live, but I would start by calling local speech therapy offices and see if they offer social/pragmatic group therapy. Also see if there is a local autism association that has a list of resources in your area. Through them, you should be able to find someone who is doing social groups for children like yours in the area.

I would also recommend psychological counseling or to a behaviorist to help her learn how to deal with her obsessions and need for perfection.

Lastly, go on your computer and log onto NBC.com. Then click on the show called, Parenthood and watch the episodes. There is a lot of info on that program that I think would be helpful.

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