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Autism/Autism and communication

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Expert: - 12/2/2011


Question
I have a son 8 yrs. old. He is still non verbal but understands to most of our conversation. He is also adhd.some times he utters clear single syllable word. Please advise what can be done?

Answer
Hi Kama

I would recommend that you get him so some sort of device that has pictures on it to help him communicate. Since he understands a lot, he must be very frustrated. If you can get an iPad, there are some great apps for communication. If you get one, let me know, and I will make the recommendations.

If you are not able to get a device or iPad, you can print out pictures of the things he wants to say and put them in a book. Then train him to give you a picture of what he wants. That should help, too.

Let me know

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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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