Expert: Catherine Ridenour - 8/24/2005

Question
Ravi is 5 in oct.  we live in shrewsbury Ma.  He has pdd/nos.  I have him on a celiac diet.  He takes calicum/magnesium zinc drink, liquid vitamins, flax seed oil and primal defense.  I have done metal detox(all natural no medicines) he is recently toliet trained has speech.  In specific I am looking to incorperate as many elements to get him to progress as much as I can prior to school.  He does attend preschool.  I am looking for treatments that may be non mainstream yet yeild results.  My various non invasive ministrations have shown promise and progress.  I also would like to find a physician who may understand the condition, as well as ideas for what to work on in school.  I know I don't want much, just what every parent wants.  But I am willing to work for my gains  mimi

Answer
Hi Mimi,

I honestly don't know how much the detox and such have to do with it, though the celiac diet does seem to be helpful for many.  You are working hard and I applaud your persistence.  Good nutrition certainly supports development.

As to progress before school, learning social skills is very important.  Teach turn taking with simple games.  Practice listening and speaking about a topic emphasize the give and take.  He will be doing this in pre-school but you can reinforce it at home.  

Before he enters school, try to get an "official" diagnosis, if you don't already have one.  This needs to come from a psychiatrist or other medical/psychological specialist who will be accepted by the school system.  On this diagnosis, you can work with the school to build his IEP.  He is entitled to services, even now, in many school districts.  If you have not talked to them, do call.  He may receive speech therapy and occupational therapy at no cost.

As to finding a physician, I suggest calling the nearest University Hospital to see if they can recommend someone.  Most large teaching hospitals attached to medical schools have developmental disability programs.

You must be near Boston.  I will ask a friend of mine who lives there what he recommends.  You can visit his web site at http://www.autismasperger.net

Also, visit http://www.autism.org where you will find a wealth of articles about autism.

Best wishes to you and your son,
Catherine