Intro and Question

[Guest guest]

[ ] Re: intro and question

Thank you all for your suggestions!

Today I gave it to him on a teaspoon. Eventually it was successful

immediately followed by his oatmeal. Hopefully tomorrow the " straight

up with a chaser " approach will work again! If not, we'll try another

suggestion.

Thanks again,

oh--we used to literally double his diapers rather than use the

diaper doublers. It worked.

[Guest guest]

[ ] Re: intro and question

Thank you all for your suggestions!

Today I gave it to him on a teaspoon. Eventually it was successful

immediately followed by his oatmeal. Hopefully tomorrow the " straight

up with a chaser " approach will work again! If not, we'll try another

suggestion.

Thanks again,

oh--we used to literally double his diapers rather than use the

diaper doublers. It worked.

[Guest guest]

Hi Judith,

Welcome to the group!! I hope you can get your questions answered

here. Even though we all don't always have answers, this group has

been a great support group! I am glad you found us!

Jackie

--- In , " Judith " <howdeeeyall@...>

wrote:

>

> Hi. I came here from the LymeStrategies group. I believe I've had

> Lyme most of my life, discovered only recently, but now I'm

realizing

> that chemical/mold sensitivity is also an ongoing problem for me.

>

> I was exposed to mold at my office several years ago--a familiar

> story, I'm sure. I was working in an ancient trailer on the

> university campus, and started the job during a heat wave/drought

one

> summer, so mold was not evident then. In late fall, the rain came

> back and I started smelling mold coming through the heat vents. I

> blocked all the vents with phone books and used a small space

heater

> in my office, but I had already begun to have many symptoms of

> illness, including brain fog that made it hard to work, though I

did

> continue working part-time. It turned out that there were huge

leaks

> in the roof and walls in the other part of the trailer which housed

a

> separate office, and rainwater often ran down the inside of the

> walls. But the other people never reported the leaks.

>

> When the university finally responded, after weeks of delay, and

did

> some basic remediation, they found mold under the trailer (but did

> not test to see which kind), and in the walls, and holes in the

> ductwork. Cleanup and repair was done but it was not very

thorough,

> and I continued to work for six months after I gave notice because

my

> boss needed me and I felt loyal to him. Looking back on it all, I

> should have left as soon as I detected mold, but at the time I felt

I

> needed the job, and I was essential to the operation of a major

> medical journal's editorial office, so I felt I could not leave

until

> a replacement was hired and trained.

>

> Unfortunately, I was also exposed to many doses of toxic and

> irritating chemicals on that job, as the other office used Lysol

> disinfectant as an air freshener (!), and sprayed it near the air

> intake for the whole trailer. It took a while to get them to stop

> that, and I provided a less toxic replacement product. There also

> were a few instances of strong carpet cleaner being used in my

office

> without my permission. I'm sure the chemicals and mold

> synergistically made me sicker. It was a nightmare for many

months,

> and I should have gone to the ER a few times with difficulty

> breathing from the chemicals, but I didn't.

>

> I've been working with a practitioner on my Lyme, and every time

she

> tests me with her SCIO machine, mold/candida comes up as a problem.

I

> probably have intestinal candida, but now I suspect I have

> environmental mold exposure, too. Since getting some repair work

> done on my heat pump/air conditioner system, I've occasionally

> smelled a faint musty smell when the air is coming out of the vents

> at my house. I have an acute sense of smell, and the mustiness is

> faint, so it's not a huge amount, but it's there. I had the

company

> come back and look at the system and complained about the sudden

> onset of mustiness after their work, but they said everything was

> OK. I doubt that. I lived in this house for ten years with no

musty

> smell apparent, until they did that one repair job.

>

> I've also found what might be a little bit of mold on the covers of

a

> few notebooks that have been sitting a long time and have plastic

> covers. And if drops of water sit on my bathroom countertop, a

dark

> green color develops where the water was. I don't know if this is

a

> mineral, or mold. We do have hard water, but I think this is a new

> occurrence.

>

> My symptoms of fatigue, achiness, brain fog, sore red eyes, etc.

have

> been increasing lately, and the heat has been running most of the

> time. I felt much better in the fall when I could leave the

windows

> open and not use any heat or AC. But I'm treating Lyme also, and

> symptoms are constantly changing from the Lyme dieoff, so it's very

> hard to tell what is causing the increased symptoms.

>

> So, questions: Is there a link or file at the group website that

> outlines what a homeowner can safely do to clean up mold, and when

> it's necessary to call in the professionals? Are there any air

> purifiers/treatment systems or sprays that can at least control

mold

> while I stay in the house? (Probably just wishful thinking.) I

will

> try to read archives and links, but with this brain fog, it's very

> hard for me to read or remember much so I'm wondering if there is

an

> appropriate file or website I can go to directly. I used to read

> endlessly and have a photographic memory. I sure miss that.

>

> Glad to be here; wish I didn't need to be here.

>

> Your friend in healing,

> Judith

>

[Guest guest]

HI I AM SHELL MUM OF SIX TWO WITH AUTISM ONE WITH TRAITS ONE WITH LBD

IT DOESNT REALLY MATTER HIS BEHAVIOURS ARE THOUGH THEY DO HELP

IT ALL DEPENDS IF HE HAS THE TRIAD OF IMPAIRMENTS IF HE HAS THAT HE WILL GET AN

AUTISM DX BUT IF

HE DOES NOT HAVE SPEECH PROBS HE WILL GET HFA ASPERGERS IF THE REST OF THE TRIAD

ARE THERE

IF I CAN HELP IN ANY WAY PLEASE ASK

kind regards shell

http://groups.msn.com/autismaspergersinthefamily

___________________________________________________________

Answers - Got a question? Someone out there knows the answer. Try it

now.

http://uk.answers./

[Guest guest]

You may first want to discuss your concerns with your pediatrician. He/she could make a referral to either a developmental pediatrician, psychologist or neuropsychologist. You may also want to contact your local parent training information center. If you need help locating yours let me know. They can provide you with information about the evaluation process, your rights and perhaps also suggest several clinicians/specialists that could evaluate your child. You could also request a full evaluation through your school district. The district would have 60 days to complete the evaluation (calendar days) and report back to you regarding your child's eligibility. The request for school evaluation should be made in writing to the school principal and cc'd to the director of special education for the district. Sometimes families prefer to do the evaluation process outside of the school district. There really isn't a "right or wrong" way to do it. Pam PS below see an example of a letter than can be modified to request special education evaluations.

LETTER REQUESTING SPECIAL EDUCATION EVALUATIONSPARENTS NAMEADDRESSCITY, STATE ZIP CODETELEPHONE NUMBERDate(Name of Special Education Director)(Name of School District)(Address of School)Dear (Name of Special Education Director):My child, (child’s name) (date of birth) attends (school name). I believe that s/he might have unidentified disabilities. The following difficulties support my concern: (List your observations – here are some examples)• S/he does not respond normally to sensory input;• S/he shows no desire to explore her environment through touch;• S/he has difficulty holding a pen or pencil with a mature grasp;• S/he has difficulty when applying decoding skills when writing; and• S/he has poor short-term memory. Please evaluate (child’s name) under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act [iDEA] and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act to see if s/he has a disability and if related services are necessary. Please consider this letter my consent to evaluate (child’s name) for special education needs and services. Obviously (child’s name), the school district and I will feel much better once we understand what is going on with (child’s name). I would appreciate it if you would schedule the evaluations as quickly as possible. Please call me at home to arrange times and places. I will need my copies of all written evaluations at least three school days before the IEP Team meeting. I will advise you of my IEP Team meeting availability dates by separate letter. Thank you for giving (child’s name) evaluations your immediate attention. I will work with you to address and achieve (child’s name) educational goals.Sincerely,(Your name)(Your address)(Your telephone number)Get a sneak peek of the all-new AOL.com.

[Guest guest]

Hi Beth. First, I'd make an appt with your pediatrician. They may give you some questionnaires to fill out................kind of like pin-pointing what the issues are.....or they may refer you to a phychologist. The psychol will talk with you and he/she is the one who will dx, if there is something to dx. Once you have a dx, you then decide what route to take. If there is also attention problems or hyperactivity (or something else) involved....which there usually is,,,,,,then you have to decide if you will put him on meds. Hopefully if you do that, the first meds will work. Sometimes they don't and this will start a LONG ride for your son and you. BUT,,,,remember that you are a great mom and thousands have gone through this same thing and ......made it. ** Benefits of a diagnosis are that you can get help at school. Some schools are good - some not so

good. But,,,,,having a dx will give you the LEGAL right to demand certain things for your son that will make it easier on him while at school. A dx will also give you a reason why he does some of the things he does. It at times can shut someone us who just thinks your son is terrible and you are a bad mom. Saying that your son has a form of autism that affects him socially may not change your life at all,,,,but you DO have the right to let people know about it and hope that they can deal better with you and your son once they know. It also makes you an advocate for your son,,,,,and the thousands/millions out there dealing with a spectrum disorder. The more people know about the crap that these kids and families are going through, hopefully in time, the world will treat them better. *** Being unable to read social cues is classic aspergers. HAVING little social

"awareness" is classic. Some see a therapist. Some are in social skills groups. Some use "modeling" or social stories. But,,,,,,,,it is something that will NEVER just come to them. YOu can work with him in your own way,,,,,,,,but ultimately we all have to (or have had to) realize that THIS IS WHO OUR KID IS. Bottom line. The best thing for our family has been just ACCEPTING it. Not that we don't want to integrate him and help him be able to fit better,,,,,,but just realizing that he will never be a social butterfly.....that he doesnt' mind being a loner........that if he is to ever have a girlfriend or wife,,,,she will be a saint because she is going to have to be the one to make the first MOVES and understand that though all married people do have to change at times,,,,,,,that Ian is not going to be able to change probably that hardest parts of him that she'll have to deal with. Don't get me wrong,,,,Ian

is amazing!! He's an incredible funny, cute guy. I was just writing all this because this past year has been the roughest yet,,,,,,and we've done a lot of "learning". So,,,,,,, Feel free to ask questions any time. There are a lot of smart gals in this group. Good luck!!! RobinBeth Manautou <bmanautou@...> wrote: Hi,I am very new to AS. My 8 yro ds matches almost all of the symptoms. My son loves dinosaurs and has

collected lots of books on them. He has read every book in the library on them and loves to draw them too. I knew something was not right though when this past year we were at a social function with other boys and they were all in a group and having fun and my son seemed to not even notice. He was bent over drawing dinosaurs in the sand and was oblivious to what was going on. Most of the time it seems like he is in another world. He draws what he sees in his head and can do this for long periods of time with extreme focus. I am somewhat happy to see that I now have more of an understanding of his world but at the same time I am scared too. Where do I start for having him diagnosed? Should I have him tested? How do they test? What are the positives of getting a diagnosis? What do you use to help develop better social skills? My son is extremely sensitive but unable to read nonverbal social cues. I see that I need to

help him in this area but how?Thank you,Beth

oneSearch: Finally, mobile search that gives answers, not web links.

[Guest guest]

I haven't postd much maybe once or twice. I'm a single mom w/ a 10 yr old girl aspie dx and add/adhd/tourettes and ocd/with a mood disorder. most days are good but man do we struggle sometimes I'm in the process of setting our spare bedroom up as a sensory room any suggestions as to what to put in it.? and/or Robin Lemke <jrisjs@...> wrote: Hi Beth. First, I'd make an appt with your pediatrician. They may give you some questionnaires to fill out................kind of like pin-pointing

what the issues are.....or they may refer you to a phychologist. The psychol will talk with you and he/she is the one who will dx, if there is something to dx. Once you have a dx, you then decide what route to take. If there is also attention problems or hyperactivity (or something else) involved....which there usually is,,,,,,then you have to decide if you will put him on meds. Hopefully if you do that, the first meds will work. Sometimes they don't and this will start a LONG ride for your son and you. BUT,,,,remember that you are a great mom and thousands have gone through this same thing and ......made it. ** Benefits of a diagnosis are that you can get help at school. Some schools are good - some not so good. But,,,,,having a dx will give you the LEGAL right to demand certain things for your son that will make it easier on him while at school. A dx

will also give you a reason why he does some of the things he does. It at times can shut someone us who just thinks your son is terrible and you are a bad mom. Saying that your son has a form of autism that affects him socially may not change your life at all,,,,but you DO have the right to let people know about it and hope that they can deal better with you and your son once they know. It also makes you an advocate for your son,,,,,and the thousands/millions out there dealing with a spectrum disorder. The more people know about the crap that these kids and families are going through, hopefully in time, the world will treat them better. *** Being unable to read social cues is classic aspergers. HAVING little social "awareness" is classic. Some see a therapist. Some are in social skills groups. Some use "modeling" or social stories. But,,,,,,,,it is something

that will NEVER just come to them. YOu can work with him in your own way,,,,,,,,but ultimately we all have to (or have had to) realize that THIS IS WHO OUR KID IS. Bottom line. The best thing for our family has been just ACCEPTING it. Not that we don't want to integrate him and help him be able to fit better,,,,,,but just realizing that he will never be a social butterfly.....that he doesnt' mind being a loner........that if he is to ever have a girlfriend or wife,,,,she will be a saint because she is going to have to be the one to make the first MOVES and understand that though all married people do have to change at times,,,,,,,that Ian is not going to be able to change probably that hardest parts of him that she'll have to deal with. Don't get me wrong,,,,Ian is amazing!! He's an incredible funny, cute guy. I was just writing all this because this past year has been the

roughest yet,,,,,,and we've done a lot of "learning". So,,,,,,, Feel free to ask questions any time. There are a lot of smart gals in this group. Good luck!!! RobinBeth Manautou <bmanautou > wrote: Hi,I am very new to AS. My 8 yro ds matches almost all of the symptoms. My son loves dinosaurs and has collected lots of books on them. He has read every book in the library on them and loves to draw them too. I knew something was not right though when this past year we were at a social function with other boys and they were all in a group and having fun and my son seemed to not even notice. He was bent over drawing dinosaurs in the sand and was oblivious to what was going on. Most of the time it seems like he is in

another world. He draws what he sees in his head and can do this for long periods of time with extreme focus. I am somewhat happy to see that I now have more of an understanding of his world but at the same time I am scared too. Where do I start for having him diagnosed? Should I have him tested? How do they test? What are the positives of getting a diagnosis? What do you use to help develop better social skills? My son is extremely sensitive but unable to read nonverbal social cues. I see that I need to help him in this area but how?Thank you,Beth oneSearch: Finally, mobile search that gives answers, not web links.

Building a website is a piece of cake. Small Business gives you all the tools to get online.

[Guest guest]

Robin.. great job with the explanation! Couldn't have done it better

myself!! LOL

Jackie

On Jul 30, 2007, at 5:07 PM, and/or Robin Lemke wrote:

> Hi Beth.

> First, I'd make an appt with your pediatrician.  They may give you

> some questionnaires to fill out................kind of like

> pin-pointing what the issues are.....or they may refer you to a

> phychologist.

> The psychol will talk with you and he/she is the one who will dx, if

> there is something to dx.

> Once you have a dx, you then decide what route to take.  If there is

> also attention problems or hyperactivity (or something else)

> involved....which there usually is,,,,,,then you have to decide if you

> will put him on meds.

> Hopefully if you do that, the first meds will work.  Sometimes they

> don't and this will start a LONG ride for your son and you.

> BUT,,,,remember that you are a great mom and thousands have gone

> through this same thing and ......made it.

> **

> Benefits of a diagnosis are that you can get help at school.  Some

> schools are good - some not so good.  But,,,,,having a dx will give

> you the LEGAL right to demand certain things for your son that will

> make it easier on him while at school.

> A dx will also give you a reason why he does some of the things he

> does.  It at times can shut someone us who just thinks your son is

> terrible and you are a bad mom.  Saying that your son has a form of

> autism that affects him socially may not change your life at

> all,,,,but you DO have the right to let people know about it and hope

> that they can deal better with you and your son once they know.

> It also makes you an advocate for your son,,,,,and the

> thousands/millions out there dealing with a spectrum disorder.  The

> more people know about the crap that these kids and families are going

> through, hopefully in time, the world will treat them better. 

> ***

> Being unable to read social cues is classic aspergers.  HAVING little

> social " awareness " is classic.  Some see a therapist.  Some are in

> social skills groups.  Some use " modeling " or social stories. 

> But,,,,,,,,it is something that will NEVER just come to them.  YOu can

> work with him in your own way,,,,,,,,but ultimately we all have to (or

> have had to) realize that THIS IS WHO OUR KID IS.  Bottom line.  The

> best thing for our family has been just ACCEPTING it.  Not that we

> don't want to integrate him and help him be able to fit

> better,,,,,,but just realizing that he will never be a social

> butterfly.....that he doesnt' mind being a loner........that if he is

> to ever have a girlfriend or wife,,,,she will be a saint because she

> is going to have to be the one to make the first MOVES and understand

> that though all married people do have to change at times,,,,,,,that

> Ian is not going to be able to change probably that hardest parts of

> him that she'll have to deal with.  Don't get me wrong,,,,Ian is

> amazing!!  He's an incredible funny, cute guy.  I was just writing all

> this because  this past year has been the roughest yet,,,,,,and we've

> done a lot of " learning " .

> So,,,,,,, 

> Feel free to ask questions any time.  There are a lot of smart gals in

> this group.

> Good luck!!!

> Robin

>

> Beth Manautou <bmanautou@...> wrote:

>> Hi,

>>

>> I am very new to AS. My 8 yro ds matches almost all of the

>> symptoms. My son loves dinosaurs and has collected lots of books on

>> them. He has read every book in the library on them and loves to draw

>> them too. I knew something was not right though when this past year we

>> were at a social function with other boys and they were all in a group

>> and having fun and my son seemed to not even notice. He was bent over

>> drawing dinosaurs in the sand and was oblivious to what was going on.

>> Most of the time it seems like he is in another world. He draws what

>> he sees in his head and can do this for long periods of time with

>> extreme focus. I am somewhat happy to see that I now have more of an

>> understanding of his world but at the same time I am scared too. Where

>> do I start for having him diagnosed? Should I have him tested? How do

>> they test? What are the positives of getting a diagnosis? What do you

>> use to help develop better social skills? My son is extremely

>> sensitive but unable to read nonverbal social cues. I see that I need

>> to help him in this area but how?

>>

>> Thank you,

>> Beth

>>

>

> oneSearch: Finally, mobile search that gives answers, not web

> links.

[Guest guest]

Hi . We never actually did a "sensory room",,,,,but my son always loves new boxes and containers........shelves.......a place to put all of his "stuff". He has "squishy" things to squeeze. He loves to have little blankets.......we fold them up but he likes them to HAVE them,,,,to just put in different spots. We had a tent-thing. I think it was Little Tykes. It was a very simple 4-sided, with a door and roof. It folded up really well....totally flat. Anyway,,,,,,a place for him to hide out and play his games...... We also just let his room be HIS.........his music, his drawing stuff......everything.Hope this helps. Robindesiree meintsma <meintsmadesiree@...> wrote: I haven't postd much maybe once or twice. I'm a single mom w/ a 10 yr old girl aspie dx and add/adhd/tourettes and ocd/with a mood disorder. most days are good but man do we struggle sometimes I'm in the process of setting our spare bedroom up as a sensory room any suggestions as to what to put in it.? and/or Robin Lemke <jrisjs > wrote: Hi Beth. First, I'd make an appt with your pediatrician. They may give you some questionnaires to fill out................kind of like pin-pointing what the issues are.....or they may refer you

to a phychologist. The psychol will talk with you and he/she is the one who will dx, if there is something to dx. Once you have a dx, you then decide what route to take. If there is also attention problems or hyperactivity (or something else) involved....which there usually is,,,,,,then you have to decide if you will put him on meds. Hopefully if you do that, the first meds will work. Sometimes they don't and this will start a LONG ride for your son and you. BUT,,,,remember that you are a great mom and thousands have gone through this same thing and ......made it. ** Benefits of a diagnosis are that you can get help at school. Some schools are good - some not so good. But,,,,,having a dx will give you the LEGAL right to demand certain things for your son that will make it easier on him while at school. A dx will also give you a reason why he does some of

the things he does. It at times can shut someone us who just thinks your son is terrible and you are a bad mom. Saying that your son has a form of autism that affects him socially may not change your life at all,,,,but you DO have the right to let people know about it and hope that they can deal better with you and your son once they know. It also makes you an advocate for your son,,,,,and the thousands/millions out there dealing with a spectrum disorder. The more people know about the crap that these kids and families are going through, hopefully in time, the world will treat them better. *** Being unable to read social cues is classic aspergers. HAVING little social "awareness" is classic. Some see a therapist. Some are in social skills groups. Some use "modeling" or social stories. But,,,,,,,,it is something that will NEVER just come to them. YOu can

work with him in your own way,,,,,,,,but ultimately we all have to (or have had to) realize that THIS IS WHO OUR KID IS. Bottom line. The best thing for our family has been just ACCEPTING it. Not that we don't want to integrate him and help him be able to fit better,,,,,,but just realizing that he will never be a social butterfly.....that he doesnt' mind being a loner........that if he is to ever have a girlfriend or wife,,,,she will be a saint because she is going to have to be the one to make the first MOVES and understand that though all married people do have to change at times,,,,,,,that Ian is not going to be able to change probably that hardest parts of him that she'll have to deal with. Don't get me wrong,,,,Ian is amazing!! He's an incredible funny, cute guy. I was just writing all this because this past year has been the roughest yet,,,,,,and we've done a lot of

"learning". So,,,,,,, Feel free to ask questions any time. There are a lot of smart gals in this group. Good luck!!! RobinBeth Manautou <bmanautou > wrote: Hi,I am very new to AS. My 8 yro ds matches almost all of the symptoms. My son loves dinosaurs and has collected lots of books on them. He has read every book in the library on them and loves to draw them too. I knew something was not right though when this past year we were at a social function with other boys and they were all in a group and having fun and my son seemed to not even notice. He was bent over drawing dinosaurs in the sand and was oblivious to what was going on. Most of the time it seems like he is in another world. He draws what he sees in his

head and can do this for long periods of time with extreme focus. I am somewhat happy to see that I now have more of an understanding of his world but at the same time I am scared too. Where do I start for having him diagnosed? Should I have him tested? How do they test? What are the positives of getting a diagnosis? What do you use to help develop better social skills? My son is extremely sensitive but unable to read nonverbal social cues. I see that I need to help him in this area but how?Thank you,Beth oneSearch: Finally, mobile search that gives answers, not web links. Building a website is a piece of cake. Small Business gives you all the tools to get online.

Pinpoint customers who are looking for what you sell.

[Guest guest]

Why, thank you, Jackie......hee hee. It's amazing how smart we get when we run around for years, half insane trying to keep our lives together, huh? Ha!!!! Robin <hunebear3@...> wrote: Robin.. great job with the explanation! Couldn't have done it better myself!! LOLJackieOn Jul 30, 2007, at 5:07 PM, and/or Robin Lemke wrote:> Hi Beth.> First, I'd make an appt with your pediatrician. They may give you > some questionnaires to fill out................kind of like > pin-pointing what the issues are.....or they may refer you to a > phychologist.> The psychol will talk with you and he/she is the one who will dx, if > there is something to dx.> Once you have a dx, you then decide what route to

take. If there is > also attention problems or hyperactivity (or something else) > involved....which there usually is,,,,,,then you have to decide if you > will put him on meds.> Hopefully if you do that, the first meds will work. Sometimes they > don't and this will start a LONG ride for your son and you.> BUT,,,,remember that you are a great mom and thousands have gone > through this same thing and ......made it.> **> Benefits of a diagnosis are that you can get help at school. Some > schools are good - some not so good. But,,,,,having a dx will give > you the LEGAL right to demand certain things for your son that will > make it easier on him while at school.> A dx will also give you a reason why he does some of the things he > does. It at times can shut someone us who just thinks your son is > terrible and you are a bad mom.

Saying that your son has a form of > autism that affects him socially may not change your life at > all,,,,but you DO have the right to let people know about it and hope > that they can deal better with you and your son once they know.> It also makes you an advocate for your son,,,,,and the > thousands/millions out there dealing with a spectrum disorder. The > more people know about the crap that these kids and families are going > through, hopefully in time, the world will treat them better. > ***> Being unable to read social cues is classic aspergers. HAVING little > social "awareness" is classic. Some see a therapist. Some are in > social skills groups. Some use "modeling" or social stories. > But,,,,,,,,it is something that will NEVER just come to them. YOu can > work with him in your own way,,,,,,,,but

ultimately we all have to (or > have had to) realize that THIS IS WHO OUR KID IS. Bottom line. The > best thing for our family has been just ACCEPTING it. Not that we > don't want to integrate him and help him be able to fit > better,,,,,,but just realizing that he will never be a social > butterfly.....that he doesnt' mind being a loner........that if he is > to ever have a girlfriend or wife,,,,she will be a saint because she > is going to have to be the one to make the first MOVES and understand > that though all married people do have to change at times,,,,,,,that > Ian is not going to be able to change probably that hardest parts of > him that she'll have to deal with. Don't get me wrong,,,,Ian is > amazing!! He's an incredible funny, cute guy. I was just writing all > this because this past year has been the

roughest yet,,,,,,and we've > done a lot of "learning".> So,,,,,,, > Feel free to ask questions any time. There are a lot of smart gals in > this group.> Good luck!!!> Robin>> Beth Manautou wrote:>> Hi,>>>> I am very new to AS. My 8 yro ds matches almost all of the>> symptoms. My son loves dinosaurs and has collected lots of books on>> them. He has read every book in the library on them and loves to draw>> them too. I knew something was not right though when this past year we>> were at a social function with other boys and they were all in a group>> and having fun and my son seemed to not even notice. He was bent over>> drawing dinosaurs in the sand and was oblivious to what was going on.>> Most of the time it seems like he is in another world. He draws what>> he sees in

his head and can do this for long periods of time with>> extreme focus. I am somewhat happy to see that I now have more of an>> understanding of his world but at the same time I am scared too. Where>> do I start for having him diagnosed? Should I have him tested? How do>> they test? What are the positives of getting a diagnosis? What do you>> use to help develop better social skills? My son is extremely>> sensitive but unable to read nonverbal social cues. I see that I need>> to help him in this area but how?>>>> Thank you,>> Beth>>>> oneSearch: Finally, mobile search that gives answers, not web > links.

Ready for the edge of your seat? Check out tonight's top picks on TV.

[Guest guest]

What do you mean HALF INSANE??? I think I am as far insane as I can

get!!! If chews on another pc of furniture or the door jam

today it will send me over the edge!!!! It's like I have a new puppy

to break of bad habits!!! He does have a chew necklace he is SUPPOSED

to wear... but he keeps losing it!! URGGHHHHH!!

LOL

Jackie

On Jul 31, 2007, at 1:23 PM, and/or Robin Lemke wrote:

> Why, thank you, Jackie......hee hee.

> It's amazing how smart we get when we run around for years, half

> insane trying to keep our lives together, huh?

> Ha!!!!

> Robin

>

> <hunebear3@...> wrote:

>> Robin.. great job with the explanation! Couldn't have done it better

>> myself!! LOL

>>

>> Jackie

>> On Jul 30, 2007, at 5:07 PM, and/or Robin Lemke wrote:

>>

>> > Hi Beth.

>> > First, I'd make an appt with your pediatrician.  They may give you

>> > some questionnaires to fill out................kind of like

>> > pin-pointing what the issues are.....or they may refer you to a

>> > phychologist.

>> > The psychol will talk with you and he/she is the one who will dx, if

>> > there is something to dx.

>> > Once you have a dx, you then decide what route to take.  If there is

>> > also attention problems or hyperactivity (or something else)

>> > involved....which there usually is,,,,,,then you have to decide if

>> you

>> > will put him on meds.

>> > Hopefully if you do that, the first meds will work.  Sometimes they

>> > don't and this will start a LONG ride for your son and you.

>> > BUT,,,,remember that you are a great mom and thousands have gone

>> > through this same thing and ......made it.

>> > **

>> > Benefits of a diagnosis are that you can get help at school.  Some

>> > schools are good - some not so good.  But,,,,,having a dx will give

>> > you the LEGAL right to demand certain things for your son that will

>> > make it easier on him while at school.

>> > A dx will also give you a reason why he does some of the things he

>> > does.  It at times can shut someone us who just thinks your son is

>> > terrible and you are a bad mom.  Saying that your son has a form of

>> > autism that affects him socially may not change your life at

>> > all,,,,but you DO have the right to let people know about it and

>> hope

>> > that they can deal better with you and your son once they know.

>> > It also makes you an advocate for your son,,,,,and the

>> > thousands/millions out there dealing with a spectrum disorder.  The

>> > more people know about the crap that these kids and families are

>> going

>> > through, hopefully in time, the world will treat them better. 

>> > ***

>> > Being unable to read social cues is classic aspergers.  HAVING

>> little

>> > social " awareness " is classic.  Some see a therapist.  Some are in

>> > social skills groups.  Some use " modeling " or social stories. 

>> > But,,,,,,,,it is something that will NEVER just come to them.  YOu

>> can

>> > work with him in your own way,,,,,,,,but ultimately we all have to

>> (or

>> > have had to) realize that THIS IS WHO OUR KID IS.  Bottom line.  The

>> > best thing for our family has been just ACCEPTING it.  Not that we

>> > don't want to integrate him and help him be able to fit

>> > better,,,,,,but just realizing that he will never be a social

>> > butterfly.....that he doesnt' mind being a loner........that if he

>> is

>> > to ever have a girlfriend or wife,,,,she will be a saint because she

>> > is going to have to be the one to make the first MOVES and

>> understand

>> > that though all married people do have to change at times,,,,,,,that

>> > Ian is not going to be able to change probably that hardest parts of

>> > him that she'll have to deal with.  Don't get me wrong,,,,Ian is

>> > amazing!!  He's an incredible funny, cute guy.  I was just writing

>> all

>> > this because  this past year has been the roughest yet,,,,,,and

>> we've

>> > done a lot of " learning " .

>> > So,,,,,,, 

>> > Feel free to ask questions any time.  There are a lot of smart gals

>> in

>> > this group.

>> > Good luck!!!

>> > Robin

>> >

>> > Beth Manautou wrote:

>> >> Hi,

>> >>

>> >> I am very new to AS. My 8 yro ds matches almost all of the

>> >> symptoms. My son loves dinosaurs and has collected lots of books on

>> >> them. He has read every book in the library on them and loves to

>> draw

>> >> them too. I knew something was not right though when this past

>> year we

>> >> were at a social function with other boys and they were all in a

>> group

>> >> and having fun and my son seemed to not even notice. He was bent

>> over

>> >> drawing dinosaurs in the sand and was oblivious to what was going

>> on.

>> >> Most of the time it seems like he is in another world. He draws

>> what

>> >> he sees in his head and can do this for long periods of time with

>> >> extreme focus. I am somewhat happy to see that I now have more of

>> an

>> >> understanding of his world but at the same time I am scared too.

>> Where

>> >> do I start for having him diagnosed? Should I have him tested? How

>> do

>> >> they test? What are the positives of getting a diagnosis? What do

>> you

>> >> use to help develop better social skills? My son is extremely

>> >> sensitive but unable to read nonverbal social cues. I see that I

>> need

>> >> to help him in this area but how?

>> >>

>> >> Thank you,

>> >> Beth

>> >>

>> >

>> > oneSearch: Finally, mobile search that gives answers, not web

>> > links.

> Ready for the edge of your seat? Check out tonight's top picks on

> TV.

[Guest guest]

I have to tell you that I am not a big fan of the questionnaires, mainly because we all have our own opinions. When I saw the one the former foster mother filled out regarding our son, it was like she was writing about a completelty different child! I think when they are used in conjunction with other evaluations they are helpful and/or Robin Lemke <jrisjs@...> wrote: Hi Beth. First, I'd make an appt with your pediatrician. They may give you some questionnaires to fill

out................kind of like pin-pointing what the issues are.....or they may refer you to a phychologist. The psychol will talk with you and he/she is the one who will dx, if there is something to dx. Once you have a dx, you then decide what route to take. If there is also attention problems or hyperactivity (or something else) involved....which there usually is,,,,,,then you have to decide if you will put him on meds. Hopefully if you do that, the first meds will work. Sometimes they don't and this will start a LONG ride for your son and you. BUT,,,,remember that you are a great mom and thousands have gone through this same thing and ......made it. ** Benefits of a diagnosis are that you can get help at school. Some schools are good - some not so good. But,,,,,having a dx will give you the LEGAL right to demand certain things for your son that will make it

easier on him while at school. A dx will also give you a reason why he does some of the things he does. It at times can shut someone us who just thinks your son is terrible and you are a bad mom. Saying that your son has a form of autism that affects him socially may not change your life at all,,,,but you DO have the right to let people know about it and hope that they can deal better with you and your son once they know. It also makes you an advocate for your son,,,,,and the thousands/millions out there dealing with a spectrum disorder. The more people know about the crap that these kids and families are going through, hopefully in time, the world will treat them better. *** Being unable to read social cues is classic aspergers. HAVING little social "awareness" is classic. Some see a therapist. Some are in social skills groups. Some use "modeling" or

social stories. But,,,,,,,,it is something that will NEVER just come to them. YOu can work with him in your own way,,,,,,,,but ultimately we all have to (or have had to) realize that THIS IS WHO OUR KID IS. Bottom line. The best thing for our family has been just ACCEPTING it. Not that we don't want to integrate him and help him be able to fit better,,,,,,but just realizing that he will never be a social butterfly.....that he doesnt' mind being a loner........that if he is to ever have a girlfriend or wife,,,,she will be a saint because she is going to have to be the one to make the first MOVES and understand that though all married people do have to change at times,,,,,,,that Ian is not going to be able to change probably that hardest parts of him that she'll have to deal with. Don't get me wrong,,,,Ian is amazing!! He's an incredible funny, cute guy. I was just writing all this

because this past year has been the roughest yet,,,,,,and we've done a lot of "learning". So,,,,,,, Feel free to ask questions any time. There are a lot of smart gals in this group. Good luck!!! RobinBeth Manautou <bmanautou > wrote: Hi,I am very new to AS. My 8 yro ds matches almost all of the symptoms. My son loves dinosaurs and has collected lots of books on them. He has read every book in the library on them and loves to draw them too. I knew something was not right though when this past year we were at a social function with other boys and they were all in a group and having fun and my son seemed to not even notice. He was bent over drawing dinosaurs in the sand and was oblivious to what was going on.

Most of the time it seems like he is in another world. He draws what he sees in his head and can do this for long periods of time with extreme focus. I am somewhat happy to see that I now have more of an understanding of his world but at the same time I am scared too. Where do I start for having him diagnosed? Should I have him tested? How do they test? What are the positives of getting a diagnosis? What do you use to help develop better social skills? My son is extremely sensitive but unable to read nonverbal social cues. I see that I need to help him in this area but how?Thank you,Beth oneSearch: Finally, mobile search that gives answers, not web links.

Take the Internet to Go: Go puts the Internet in your pocket: mail, news, photos more.

[Guest guest]

All of Ian's shirts have the "chew look" right under his chin. No matter what he's doing,,,,the collar of his t-shirt is in his mouth. It's so stretched out that even when I was them,,,,,they come out still "crinkled" from where it was chewed. AHHHHHHHHHH.......I love it.Robin <hunebear3@...> wrote: What do you mean HALF INSANE??? I think I am as far insane as I can get!!! If chews on another pc of furniture or the door jam today it will send me over the edge!!!! It's like I have a new puppy to break of bad habits!!! He does have a chew necklace he is SUPPOSED to wear... but he keeps losing it!! URGGHHHHH!!LOLJackieOn Jul 31, 2007, at 1:23 PM, and/or Robin Lemke wrote:> Why, thank you, Jackie......hee hee.> It's amazing

how smart we get when we run around for years, half > insane trying to keep our lives together, huh?> Ha!!!!> Robin>> wrote:>> Robin.. great job with the explanation! Couldn't have done it better>> myself!! LOL>>>> Jackie>> On Jul 30, 2007, at 5:07 PM, and/or Robin Lemke wrote:>>>> > Hi Beth.>> > First, I'd make an appt with your pediatrician. They may give you>> > some questionnaires to fill out................kind of like>> > pin-pointing what the issues are.....or they may refer you to a>> > phychologist.>> > The psychol will talk with you and he/she is the one who will dx, if>> > there is something to dx.>> > Once you have a dx, you then decide what route to take. If there is>> > also attention problems

or hyperactivity (or something else)>> > involved....which there usually is,,,,,,then you have to decide if >> you>> > will put him on meds.>> > Hopefully if you do that, the first meds will work. Sometimes they>> > don't and this will start a LONG ride for your son and you.>> > BUT,,,,remember that you are a great mom and thousands have gone>> > through this same thing and ......made it.>> > **>> > Benefits of a diagnosis are that you can get help at school. Some>> > schools are good - some not so good. But,,,,,having a dx will give>> > you the LEGAL right to demand certain things for your son that will>> > make it easier on him while at school.>> > A dx will also give you a reason why he does some of the things he>> > does. It at times can shut someone us who just

thinks your son is>> > terrible and you are a bad mom. Saying that your son has a form of>> > autism that affects him socially may not change your life at>> > all,,,,but you DO have the right to let people know about it and >> hope>> > that they can deal better with you and your son once they know.>> > It also makes you an advocate for your son,,,,,and the>> > thousands/millions out there dealing with a spectrum disorder. The>> > more people know about the crap that these kids and families are >> going>> > through, hopefully in time, the world will treat them better. >> > ***>> > Being unable to read social cues is classic aspergers. HAVING >> little>> > social "awareness" is classic. Some see a therapist. Some are in>> > social

skills groups. Some use "modeling" or social stories. >> > But,,,,,,,,it is something that will NEVER just come to them. YOu >> can>> > work with him in your own way,,,,,,,,but ultimately we all have to >> (or>> > have had to) realize that THIS IS WHO OUR KID IS. Bottom line. The>> > best thing for our family has been just ACCEPTING it. Not that we>> > don't want to integrate him and help him be able to fit>> > better,,,,,,but just realizing that he will never be a social>> > butterfly.....that he doesnt' mind being a loner........that if he >> is>> > to ever have a girlfriend or wife,,,,she will be a saint because she>> > is going to have to be the one to make the first MOVES and >> understand>> > that though all married people do have to change

at times,,,,,,,that>> > Ian is not going to be able to change probably that hardest parts of>> > him that she'll have to deal with. Don't get me wrong,,,,Ian is>> > amazing!! He's an incredible funny, cute guy. I was just writing >> all>> > this because this past year has been the roughest yet,,,,,,and >> we've>> > done a lot of "learning".>> > So,,,,,,, >> > Feel free to ask questions any time. There are a lot of smart gals >> in>> > this group.>> > Good luck!!!>> > Robin>> >>> > Beth Manautou wrote:>> >> Hi,>> >>>> >> I am very new to AS. My 8 yro ds matches almost all of the>> >> symptoms. My son loves dinosaurs and has collected lots of books on>> >>

them. He has read every book in the library on them and loves to >> draw>> >> them too. I knew something was not right though when this past >> year we>> >> were at a social function with other boys and they were all in a >> group>> >> and having fun and my son seemed to not even notice. He was bent >> over>> >> drawing dinosaurs in the sand and was oblivious to what was going >> on.>> >> Most of the time it seems like he is in another world. He draws >> what>> >> he sees in his head and can do this for long periods of time with>> >> extreme focus. I am somewhat happy to see that I now have more of >> an>> >> understanding of his world but at the same time I am scared too. >> Where>> >> do I start for having him diagnosed? Should I have him tested? How

>> do>> >> they test? What are the positives of getting a diagnosis? What do >> you>> >> use to help develop better social skills? My son is extremely>> >> sensitive but unable to read nonverbal social cues. I see that I >> need>> >> to help him in this area but how?>> >>>> >> Thank you,>> >> Beth>> >>>> >>> > oneSearch: Finally, mobile search that gives answers, not web>> > links.> Ready for the edge of your seat? Check out tonight's top picks on > TV.

Boardwalk for $500? In 2007? Ha! Play Monopoly Here and Now (it's updated for today's economy) at Games.

[Guest guest]

doesn't chew his OWN clothing too much anymore... He just chews

everything else in sight.. couch, metal, plastic, wood, my hot glue

sticks.. you name he chews on it. It's gotten so bad lately that I

have been trying to find things to put in his special box that he can

chew on... besides gum. Got any suggestions???

Jackie

On Jul 31, 2007, at 1:52 PM, and/or Robin Lemke wrote:

> All of Ian's shirts have the " chew look " right under his chin.  No

> matter what he's doing,,,,the collar of his t-shirt is in his mouth. 

> It's so stretched out that even when I was them,,,,,they come out

> still " crinkled " from where it was chewed. 

> AHHHHHHHHHH.......I love it.

> Robin

> <hunebear3@...> wrote:

>> What do you mean HALF INSANE??? I think I am as far insane as I can

>> get!!! If chews on another pc of furniture or the door jam

>> today it will send me over the edge!!!! It's like I have a new puppy

>> to break of bad habits!!! He does have a chew necklace he is SUPPOSED

>> to wear... but he keeps losing it!! URGGHHHHH!!

>>

>> LOL

>> Jackie

>> On Jul 31, 2007, at 1:23 PM, and/or Robin Lemke wrote:

>>

>> > Why, thank you, Jackie......hee hee.

>> > It's amazing how smart we get when we run around for years, half

>> > insane trying to keep our lives together, huh?

>> > Ha!!!!

>> > Robin

>> >

>> > wrote:

>> >> Robin.. great job with the explanation! Couldn't have done it

>> better

>> >> myself!! LOL

>> >>

>> >> Jackie

>> >> On Jul 30, 2007, at 5:07 PM, and/or Robin Lemke wrote:

>> >>

>> >> > Hi Beth.

>> >> > First, I'd make an appt with your pediatrician.  They may give

>> you

>> >> > some questionnaires to fill out................kind of like

>> >> > pin-pointing what the issues are.....or they may refer you to a

>> >> > phychologist.

>> >> > The psychol will talk with you and he/she is the one who will

>> dx, if

>> >> > there is something to dx.

>> >> > Once you have a dx, you then decide what route to take.  If

>> there is

>> >> > also attention problems or hyperactivity (or something else)

>> >> > involved....which there usually is,,,,,,then you have to decide

>> if

>> >> you

>> >> > will put him on meds.

>> >> > Hopefully if you do that, the first meds will work.  Sometimes

>> they

>> >> > don't and this will start a LONG ride for your son and you.

>> >> > BUT,,,,remember that you are a great mom and thousands have gone

>> >> > through this same thing and ......made it.

>> >> > **

>> >> > Benefits of a diagnosis are that you can get help at school. 

>> Some

>> >> > schools are good - some not so good.  But,,,,,having a dx will

>> give

>> >> > you the LEGAL right to demand certain things for your son that

>> will

>> >> > make it easier on him while at school.

>> >> > A dx will also give you a reason why he does some of the things

>> he

>> >> > does.  It at times can shut someone us who just thinks your son

>> is

>> >> > terrible and you are a bad mom.  Saying that your son has a form

>> of

>> >> > autism that affects him socially may not change your life at

>> >> > all,,,,but you DO have the right to let people know about it and

>> >> hope

>> >> > that they can deal better with you and your son once they know.

>> >> > It also makes you an advocate for your son,,,,,and the

>> >> > thousands/millions out there dealing with a spectrum disorder. 

>> The

>> >> > more people know about the crap that these kids and families are

>> >> going

>> >> > through, hopefully in time, the world will treat them better. 

>> >> > ***

>> >> > Being unable to read social cues is classic aspergers.  HAVING

>> >> little

>> >> > social " awareness " is classic.  Some see a therapist.  Some are

>> in

>> >> > social skills groups.  Some use " modeling " or social stories. 

>> >> > But,,,,,,,,it is something that will NEVER just come to them. 

>> YOu

>> >> can

>> >> > work with him in your own way,,,,,,,,but ultimately we all have

>> to

>> >> (or

>> >> > have had to) realize that THIS IS WHO OUR KID IS.  Bottom line. 

>> The

>> >> > best thing for our family has been just ACCEPTING it.  Not that

>> we

>> >> > don't want to integrate him and help him be able to fit

>> >> > better,,,,,,but just realizing that he will never be a social

>> >> > butterfly.....that he doesnt' mind being a loner........that if

>> he

>> >> is

>> >> > to ever have a girlfriend or wife,,,,she will be a saint because

>> she

>> >> > is going to have to be the one to make the first MOVES and

>> >> understand

>> >> > that though all married people do have to change

>> at times,,,,,,,that

>> >> > Ian is not going to be able to change probably that hardest

>> parts of

>> >> > him that she'll have to deal with.  Don't get me wrong,,,,Ian is

>> >> > amazing!!  He's an incredible funny, cute guy.  I was just

>> writing

>> >> all

>> >> > this because  this past year has been the roughest yet,,,,,,and

>> >> we've

>> >> > done a lot of " learning " .

>> >> > So,,,,,,, 

>> >> > Feel free to ask questions any time.  There are a lot of smart

>> gals

>> >> in

>> >> > this group.

>> >> > Good luck!!!

>> >> > Robin

>> >> >

>> >> > Beth Manautou wrote:

>> >> >> Hi,

>> >> >>

>> >> >> I am very new to AS. My 8 yro ds matches almost all of the

>> >> >> symptoms. My son loves dinosaurs and has collected lots of

>> books on

>> >> >> them. He has read every book in the library on them and loves to

>> >> draw

>> >> >> them too. I knew something was not right though when this past

>> >> year we

>> >> >> were at a social function with other boys and they were all in a

>> >> group

>> >> >> and having fun and my son seemed to not even notice. He was bent

>> >> over

>> >> >> drawing dinosaurs in the sand and was oblivious to what was

>> going

>> >> on.

>> >> >> Most of the time it seems like he is in another world. He draws

>> >> what

>> >> >> he sees in his head and can do this for long periods of time

>> with

>> >> >> extreme focus. I am somewhat happy to see that I now have more

>> of

>> >> an

>> >> >> understanding of his world but at the same time I am scared too.

>> >> Where

>> >> >> do I start for having him diagnosed? Should I have him tested?

>> How

>> >> do

>> >> >> they test? What are the positives of getting a diagnosis? What

>> do

>> >> you

>> >> >> use to help develop better social skills? My son is extremely

>> >> >> sensitive but unable to read nonverbal social cues. I see that I

>> >> need

>> >> >> to help him in this area but how?

>> >> >>

>> >> >> Thank you,

>> >> >> Beth

>> >> >>

>> >> >

>> >> > oneSearch: Finally, mobile search that gives answers, not

>> web

>> >> > links.

>> > Ready for the edge of your seat? Check out tonight's top picks on

>> > TV.

> Boardwalk for $500? In 2007? Ha!

> Play Monopoly Here and Now (it's updated for today's economy) at

> Games.

[Guest guest]

Sam is a licker/chewer. She loves straws that are folded in 1/2. Is he OCD? Robin <hunebear3@...> wrote: doesn't chew his OWN clothing too much anymore... He just chews everything else in sight.. couch, metal, plastic, wood, my hot glue sticks.. you name he chews on it. It's gotten so bad lately that I have been trying to find things to put in his special box that he can chew on... besides gum. Got any suggestions???JackieOn Jul 31, 2007, at 1:52 PM, and/or Robin Lemke wrote:> All of Ian's shirts have the "chew look" right under his chin. No > matter what he's doing,,,,the collar of his t-shirt is in his mouth. > It's so stretched out that even when I was them,,,,,they come out > still "crinkled"

from where it was chewed. > AHHHHHHHHHH.......I love it.> Robin> wrote:>> What do you mean HALF INSANE??? I think I am as far insane as I can>> get!!! If chews on another pc of furniture or the door jam>> today it will send me over the edge!!!! It's like I have a new puppy>> to break of bad habits!!! He does have a chew necklace he is SUPPOSED>> to wear... but he keeps losing it!! URGGHHHHH!!>>>> LOL>> Jackie>> On Jul 31, 2007, at 1:23 PM, and/or Robin Lemke wrote:>>>> > Why, thank you, Jackie......hee hee.>> > It's amazing how smart we get when we run around for years, half>> > insane trying to keep our lives together, huh?>> > Ha!!!!>> > Robin>> >>> > wrote:>> >> Robin..

great job with the explanation! Couldn't have done it >> better>> >> myself!! LOL>> >>>> >> Jackie>> >> On Jul 30, 2007, at 5:07 PM, and/or Robin Lemke wrote:>> >>>> >> > Hi Beth.>> >> > First, I'd make an appt with your pediatrician. They may give >> you>> >> > some questionnaires to fill out................kind of like>> >> > pin-pointing what the issues are.....or they may refer you to a>> >> > phychologist.>> >> > The psychol will talk with you and he/she is the one who will >> dx, if>> >> > there is something to dx.>> >> > Once you have a dx, you then decide what route to take. If >> there is>> >> > also attention problems or hyperactivity (or something

else)>> >> > involved....which there usually is,,,,,,then you have to decide >> if>> >> you>> >> > will put him on meds.>> >> > Hopefully if you do that, the first meds will work. Sometimes >> they>> >> > don't and this will start a LONG ride for your son and you.>> >> > BUT,,,,remember that you are a great mom and thousands have gone>> >> > through this same thing and ......made it.>> >> > **>> >> > Benefits of a diagnosis are that you can get help at school. >> Some>> >> > schools are good - some not so good. But,,,,,having a dx will >> give>> >> > you the LEGAL right to demand certain things for your son that >> will>> >> > make it easier on him while at school.>>

>> > A dx will also give you a reason why he does some of the things >> he>> >> > does. It at times can shut someone us who just thinks your son >> is>> >> > terrible and you are a bad mom. Saying that your son has a form >> of>> >> > autism that affects him socially may not change your life at>> >> > all,,,,but you DO have the right to let people know about it and>> >> hope>> >> > that they can deal better with you and your son once they know.>> >> > It also makes you an advocate for your son,,,,,and the>> >> > thousands/millions out there dealing with a spectrum disorder. >> The>> >> > more people know about the crap that these kids and families are>> >> going>> >> > through, hopefully

in time, the world will treat them better. >> >> > ***>> >> > Being unable to read social cues is classic aspergers. HAVING>> >> little>> >> > social "awareness" is classic. Some see a therapist. Some are >> in>> >> > social skills groups. Some use "modeling" or social stories. >> >> > But,,,,,,,,it is something that will NEVER just come to them. >> YOu>> >> can>> >> > work with him in your own way,,,,,,,,but ultimately we all have >> to>> >> (or>> >> > have had to) realize that THIS IS WHO OUR KID IS. Bottom line. >> The>> >> > best thing for our family has been just ACCEPTING it. Not that >> we>> >> > don't want to integrate him and help him be

able to fit>> >> > better,,,,,,but just realizing that he will never be a social>> >> > butterfly.....that he doesnt' mind being a loner........that if >> he>> >> is>> >> > to ever have a girlfriend or wife,,,,she will be a saint because >> she>> >> > is going to have to be the one to make the first MOVES and>> >> understand>> >> > that though all married people do have to change >> at times,,,,,,,that>> >> > Ian is not going to be able to change probably that hardest >> parts of>> >> > him that she'll have to deal with. Don't get me wrong,,,,Ian is>> >> > amazing!! He's an incredible funny, cute guy. I was just >> writing>> >> all>> >> > this because this past year

has been the roughest yet,,,,,,and>> >> we've>> >> > done a lot of "learning".>> >> > So,,,,,,, >> >> > Feel free to ask questions any time. There are a lot of smart >> gals>> >> in>> >> > this group.>> >> > Good luck!!!>> >> > Robin>> >> >>> >> > Beth Manautou wrote:>> >> >> Hi,>> >> >>>> >> >> I am very new to AS. My 8 yro ds matches almost all of the>> >> >> symptoms. My son loves dinosaurs and has collected lots of >> books on>> >> >> them. He has read every book in the library on them and loves to>> >> draw>> >> >> them too. I knew something was not right though when this past>> >> year

we>> >> >> were at a social function with other boys and they were all in a>> >> group>> >> >> and having fun and my son seemed to not even notice. He was bent>> >> over>> >> >> drawing dinosaurs in the sand and was oblivious to what was >> going>> >> on.>> >> >> Most of the time it seems like he is in another world. He draws>> >> what>> >> >> he sees in his head and can do this for long periods of time >> with>> >> >> extreme focus. I am somewhat happy to see that I now have more >> of>> >> an>> >> >> understanding of his world but at the same time I am scared too.>> >> Where>> >> >> do I start for having him diagnosed? Should I have him tested? >> How>>

>> do>> >> >> they test? What are the positives of getting a diagnosis? What >> do>> >> you>> >> >> use to help develop better social skills? My son is extremely>> >> >> sensitive but unable to read nonverbal social cues. I see that I>> >> need>> >> >> to help him in this area but how?>> >> >>>> >> >> Thank you,>> >> >> Beth>> >> >>>> >> >>> >> > oneSearch: Finally, mobile search that gives answers, not >> web>> >> > links.>> > Ready for the edge of your seat? Check out tonight's top picks on>> > TV.> Boardwalk for $500? In 2007? Ha!> Play Monopoly Here and Now (it's updated for today's economy) at > Games.

Boardwalk for $500? In 2007? Ha! Play Monopoly Here and Now (it's updated for today's economy) at Games.

[Guest guest]

Well he's diagnosed " Obssessive Compulsive Associated with Aspergers!

So I guess he is. LOL He doesn't HAVE to do the same thing over and

over or repeat things three times or anything like that... but he has

told me that he HAS to touch things... so I have put his hands in his

pockets!

I guess some of his " behaviors " could be OCD... like pulling the skin

off of his feet and picking his nose constantly????

Jackie

On Jul 31, 2007, at 6:28 PM, and/or Robin Lemke wrote:

> Sam is a licker/chewer.  She loves straws that are folded in 1/2.

> Is he OCD?

> Robin

>

> <hunebear3@...> wrote:

>> doesn't chew his OWN clothing too much anymore... He just

>> chews

>> everything else in sight.. couch, metal, plastic, wood, my hot glue

>> sticks.. you name he chews on it. It's gotten so bad lately that I

>> have been trying to find things to put in his special box that he can

>> chew on... besides gum. Got any suggestions???

>>

>> Jackie

>> On Jul 31, 2007, at 1:52 PM, and/or Robin Lemke wrote:

>>

>> > All of Ian's shirts have the " chew look " right under his chin.  No

>> > matter what he's doing,,,,the collar of his t-shirt is in his

>> mouth. 

>> > It's so stretched out that even when I was them,,,,,they come out

>> > still " crinkled " from where it was chewed. 

>> > AHHHHHHHHHH.......I love it.

>> > Robin

>> > wrote:

>> >> What do you mean HALF INSANE??? I think I am as far insane as I can

>> >> get!!! If chews on another pc of furniture or the door jam

>> >> today it will send me over the edge!!!! It's like I have a new

>> puppy

>> >> to break of bad habits!!! He does have a chew necklace he is

>> SUPPOSED

>> >> to wear... but he keeps losing it!! URGGHHHHH!!

>> >>

>> >> LOL

>> >> Jackie

>> >> On Jul 31, 2007, at 1:23 PM, and/or Robin Lemke wrote:

>> >>

>> >> > Why, thank you, Jackie......hee hee.

>> >> > It's amazing how smart we get when we run around for years, half

>> >> > insane trying to keep our lives together, huh?

>> >> > Ha!!!!

>> >> > Robin

>> >> >

>> >> > wrote:

>> >> >> Robin.. great job with the explanation! Couldn't have done it

>> >> better

>> >> >> myself!! LOL

>> >> >>

>> >> >> Jackie

>> >> >> On Jul 30, 2007, at 5:07 PM, and/or Robin Lemke wrote:

>> >> >>

>> >> >> > Hi Beth.

>> >> >> > First, I'd make an appt with your pediatrician.  They may give

>> >> you

>> >> >> > some questionnaires to fill out................kind of like

>> >> >> > pin-pointing what the issues are.....or they may refer you to

>> a

>> >> >> > phychologist.

>> >> >> > The psychol will talk with you and he/she is the one who will

>> >> dx, if

>> >> >> > there is something to dx.

>> >> >> > Once you have a dx, you then decide what route to take.  If

>> >> there is

>> >> >> > also attention problems or hyperactivity (or something else)

>> >> >> > involved....which there usually is,,,,,,then you have to

>> decide

>> >> if

>> >> >> you

>> >> >> > will put him on meds.

>> >> >> > Hopefully if you do that, the first meds will work.  Sometimes

>> >> they

>> >> >> > don't and this will start a LONG ride for your son and you.

>> >> >> > BUT,,,,remember that you are a great mom and thousands have

>> gone

>> >> >> > through this same thing and ......made it.

>> >> >> > **

>> >> >> > Benefits of a diagnosis are that you can get help at school. 

>> >> Some

>> >> >> > schools are good - some not so good.  But,,,,,having a dx will

>> >> give

>> >> >> > you the LEGAL right to demand certain things for your son that

>> >> will

>> >> >> > make it easier on him while at school.

>> >> >> > A dx will also give you a reason why he does some of the

>> things

>> >> he

>> >> >> > does.  It at times can shut someone us who just thinks your

>> son

>> >> is

>> >> >> > terrible and you are a bad mom.  Saying that your son has a

>> form

>> >> of

>> >> >> > autism that affects him socially may not change your life at

>> >> >> > all,,,,but you DO have the right to let people know about it

>> and

>> >> >> hope

>> >> >> > that they can deal better with you and your son once they

>> know.

>> >> >> > It also makes you an advocate for your son,,,,,and the

>> >> >> > thousands/millions out there dealing with a spectrum

>> disorder. 

>> >> The

>> >> >> > more people know about the crap that these kids and families

>> are

>> >> >> going

>> >> >> > through, hopefully in time, the world will treat them better. 

>> >> >> > ***

>> >> >> > Being unable to read social cues is classic aspergers.  HAVING

>> >> >> little

>> >> >> > social " awareness " is classic.  Some see a therapist.  Some

>> are

>> >> in

>> >> >> > social skills groups.  Some use " modeling " or social stories. 

>> >> >> > But,,,,,,,,it is something that will NEVER just come to them. 

>> >> YOu

>> >> >> can

>> >> >> > work with him in your own way,,,,,,,,but ultimately we all

>> have

>> >> to

>> >> >> (or

>> >> >> > have had to) realize that THIS IS WHO OUR KID IS.  Bottom

>> line. 

>> >> The

>> >> >> > best thing for our family has been just ACCEPTING it.  Not

>> that

>> >> we

>> >> >> > don't want to integrate him and help him be able to fit

>> >> >> > better,,,,,,but just realizing that he will never be a social

>> >> >> > butterfly.....that he doesnt' mind being a loner........that

>> if

>> >> he

>> >> >> is

>> >> >> > to ever have a girlfriend or wife,,,,she will be a saint

>> because

>> >> she

>> >> >> > is going to have to be the one to make the first MOVES and

>> >> >> understand

>> >> >> > that though all married people do have to change

>> >> at times,,,,,,,that

>> >> >> > Ian is not going to be able to change probably that hardest

>> >> parts of

>> >> >> > him that she'll have to deal with.  Don't get me wrong,,,,Ian

>> is

>> >> >> > amazing!!  He's an incredible funny, cute guy.  I was just

>> >> writing

>> >> >> all

>> >> >> > this because  this past year has been the

>> roughest yet,,,,,,and

>> >> >> we've

>> >> >> > done a lot of " learning " .

>> >> >> > So,,,,,,, 

>> >> >> > Feel free to ask questions any time.  There are a lot of smart

>> >> gals

>> >> >> in

>> >> >> > this group.

>> >> >> > Good luck!!!

>> >> >> > Robin

>> >> >> >

>> >> >> > Beth Manautou wrote:

>> >> >> >> Hi,

>> >> >> >>

>> >> >> >> I am very new to AS. My 8 yro ds matches almost all of the

>> >> >> >> symptoms. My son loves dinosaurs and has collected lots of

>> >> books on

>> >> >> >> them. He has read every book in the library on them and

>> loves to

>> >> >> draw

>> >> >> >> them too. I knew something was not right though when this

>> past

>> >> >> year we

>> >> >> >> were at a social function with other boys and they were all

>> in a

>> >> >> group

>> >> >> >> and having fun and my son seemed to not even notice. He was

>> bent

>> >> >> over

>> >> >> >> drawing dinosaurs in the sand and was oblivious to what was

>> >> going

>> >> >> on.

>> >> >> >> Most of the time it seems like he is in another world. He

>> draws

>> >> >> what

>> >> >> >> he sees in his head and can do this for long periods of time

>> >> with

>> >> >> >> extreme focus. I am somewhat happy to see that I now have

>> more

>> >> of

>> >> >> an

>> >> >> >> understanding of his world but at the same time I am scared

>> too.

>> >> >> Where

>> >> >> >> do I start for having him diagnosed? Should I have him

>> tested?

>> >> How

>> >> >> do

>> >> >> >> they test? What are the positives of getting a diagnosis?

>> What

>> >> do

>> >> >> you

>> >> >> >> use to help develop better social skills? My son is extremely

>> >> >> >> sensitive but unable to read nonverbal social cues. I see

>> that I

>> >> >> need

>> >> >> >> to help him in this area but how?

>> >> >> >>

>> >> >> >> Thank you,

>> >> >> >> Beth

>> >> >> >>

>> >> >> >

>> >> >> > oneSearch: Finally, mobile search that gives answers,

>> not

>> >> web

>> >> >> > links.

>> >> > Ready for the edge of your seat? Check out tonight's top picks on

>> >> > TV.

>> > Boardwalk for $500? In 2007? Ha!

>> > Play Monopoly Here and Now (it's updated for today's economy) at

>> > Games.

> Boardwalk for $500? In 2007? Ha!

> Play Monopoly Here and Now (it's updated for today's economy) at

> Games.

[Guest guest]

,

I'll have to see if he likes licorice... I think he does and this would

be perfect... a long cold hard chew!!! Maybe he will stop chewing on

the metal frame on the couch then! Hmmmmmm.

Jackie

On Jul 31, 2007, at 8:58 PM, C wrote:

> frozen or refrigerated licorice...mmmmmmm

>> Re: ( ) Intro and question

>>

>> doesn't chew his OWN clothing too much anymore... He just

>> chews everything else in sight.. couch, metal, plastic, wood, my hot

>> glue sticks.. you name he chews on it. It's gotten so bad lately that

>> I have been trying to find things to put in his special box that he

>> can chew on... besides gum. Got any suggestions???

>>

>> Jackie

>> On Jul 31, 2007, at 1:52 PM, and/or Robin Lemke wrote:

>>

>>> All of Ian's shirts have the " chew look " right under his chin.  No

>>> matter what he's doing,,,,the collar of his t-shirt is in his

>>> mouth.  It's so stretched out that even when I was them,,,,,they

>>> come out still " crinkled " from where it was chewed. 

>>> AHHHHHHHHHH.......I love it.

>>> Robin

>>> <hunebear3@...> wrote:

>>>> What do you mean HALF INSANE??? I think I am as far insane as I can

>>>> get!!! If chews on another pc of furniture or the door jam

>>>> today it will send me over the edge!!!! It's like I have a new puppy

>>>> to break of bad habits!!! He does have a chew necklace he is

>>>> SUPPOSED

>>>> to wear... but he keeps losing it!! URGGHHHHH!!

>>>>

>>>> LOL

>>>> Jackie

>>>> On Jul 31, 2007, at 1:23 PM, and/or Robin Lemke wrote:

>>>>

>>>> > Why, thank you, Jackie......hee hee.

>>>> > It's amazing how smart we get when we run around for years, half

>>>> > insane trying to keep our lives together, huh?

>>>> > Ha!!!!

>>>> > Robin

>>>> >

>>>> > wrote:

>>>> >> Robin.. great job with the explanation! Couldn't have done it

>>>> better

>>>> >> myself!! LOL

>>>> >>

>>>> >> Jackie

>>>> >> On Jul 30, 2007, at 5:07 PM, and/or Robin Lemke wrote:

>>>> >>

>>>> >> > Hi Beth.

>>>> >> > First, I'd make an appt with your pediatrician.  They may give

>>>> you

>>>> >> > some questionnaires to fill out................kind of like

>>>> >> > pin-pointing what the issues are.....or they may refer you to a

>>>> >> > phychologist.

>>>> >> > The psychol will talk with you and he/she is the one who will

>>>> dx, if

>>>> >> > there is something to dx.

>>>> >> > Once you have a dx, you then decide what route to take.  If

>>>> there is

>>>> >> > also attention problems or hyperactivity (or something else)

>>>> >> > involved....which there usually is,,,,,,then you have to

>>>> decide if

>>>> >> you

>>>> >> > will put him on meds.

>>>> >> > Hopefully if you do that, the first meds will work.  Sometimes

>>>> they

>>>> >> > don't and this will start a LONG ride for your son and you.

>>>> >> > BUT,,,,remember that you are a great mom and thousands have

>>>> gone

>>>> >> > through this same thing and ......made it.

>>>> >> > **

>>>> >> > Benefits of a diagnosis are that you can get help at school. 

>>>> Some

>>>> >> > schools are good - some not so good.  But,,,,,having a dx will

>>>> give

>>>> >> > you the LEGAL right to demand certain things for your son that

>>>> will

>>>> >> > make it easier on him while at school.

>>>> >> > A dx will also give you a reason why he does some of the

>>>> things he

>>>> >> > does.  It at times can shut someone us who just thinks your

>>>> son is

>>>> >> > terrible and you are a bad mom.  Saying that your son has a

>>>> form of

>>>> >> > autism that affects him socially may not change your life at

>>>> >> > all,,,,but you DO have the right to let people know about it

>>>> and

>>>> >> hope

>>>> >> > that they can deal better with you and your son once they know.

>>>> >> > It also makes you an advocate for your son,,,,,and the

>>>> >> > thousands/millions out there dealing with a spectrum

>>>> disorder.  The

>>>> >> > more people know about the crap that these kids and families

>>>> are

>>>> >> going

>>>> >> > through, hopefully in time, the world will treat them better. 

>>>> >> > ***

>>>> >> > Being unable to read social cues is classic aspergers.  HAVING

>>>> >> little

>>>> >> > social " awareness " is classic.  Some see a therapist.  Some

>>>> are in

>>>> >> > social skills groups.  Some use " modeling " or social stories. 

>>>> >> > But,,,,,,,,it is something that will NEVER just come to them. 

>>>> YOu

>>>> >> can

>>>> >> > work with him in your own way,,,,,,,,but ultimately we all

>>>> have to

>>>> >> (or

>>>> >> > have had to) realize that THIS IS WHO OUR KID IS.  Bottom

>>>> line.  The

>>>> >> > best thing for our family has been just ACCEPTING it.  Not

>>>> that we

>>>> >> > don't want to integrate him and help him be able to fit

>>>> >> > better,,,,,,but just realizing that he will never be a social

>>>> >> > butterfly.....that he doesnt' mind being a loner........that

>>>> if he

>>>> >> is

>>>> >> > to ever have a girlfriend or wife,,,,she will be a saint

>>>> because she

>>>> >> > is going to have to be the one to make the first MOVES and

>>>> >> understand

>>>> >> > that though all married people do have to change

>>>> at times,,,,,,,that

>>>> >> > Ian is not going to be able to change probably that hardest

>>>> parts of

>>>> >> > him that she'll have to deal with.  Don't get me wrong,,,,Ian

>>>> is

>>>> >> > amazing!!  He's an incredible funny, cute guy.  I was just

>>>> writing

>>>> >> all

>>>> >> > this because  this past year has been the roughest yet,,,,,,and

>>>> >> we've

>>>> >> > done a lot of " learning " .

>>>> >> > So,,,,,,, 

>>>> >> > Feel free to ask questions any time.  There are a lot of smart

>>>> gals

>>>> >> in

>>>> >> > this group.

>>>> >> > Good luck!!!

>>>> >> > Robin

>>>> >> >

>>>> >> > Beth Manautou wrote:

>>>> >> >> Hi,

>>>> >> >>

>>>> >> >> I am very new to AS. My 8 yro ds matches almost all of the

>>>> >> >> symptoms. My son loves dinosaurs and has collected lots of

>>>> books on

>>>> >> >> them. He has read every book in the library on them and loves

>>>> to

>>>> >> draw

>>>> >> >> them too. I knew something was not right though when this past

>>>> >> year we

>>>> >> >> were at a social function with other boys and they were all

>>>> in a

>>>> >> group

>>>> >> >> and having fun and my son seemed to not even notice. He was

>>>> bent

>>>> >> over

>>>> >> >> drawing dinosaurs in the sand and was oblivious to what was

>>>> going

>>>> >> on.

>>>> >> >> Most of the time it seems like he is in another world. He

>>>> draws

>>>> >> what

>>>> >> >> he sees in his head and can do this for long periods of time

>>>> with

>>>> >> >> extreme focus. I am somewhat happy to see that I now have

>>>> more of

>>>> >> an

>>>> >> >> understanding of his world but at the same time I am scared

>>>> too.

>>>> >> Where

>>>> >> >> do I start for having him diagnosed? Should I have him

>>>> tested? How

>>>> >> do

>>>> >> >> they test? What are the positives of getting a diagnosis?

>>>> What do

>>>> >> you

>>>> >> >> use to help develop better social skills? My son is extremely

>>>> >> >> sensitive but unable to read nonverbal social cues. I see

>>>> that I

>>>> >> need

>>>> >> >> to help him in this area but how?

>>>> >> >>

>>>> >> >> Thank you,

>>>> >> >> Beth

>>>> >> >>

>>>> >> >

>>>> >> > oneSearch: Finally, mobile search that gives answers,

>>>> not web

>>>> >> > links.

>>>> > Ready for the edge of your seat? Check out tonight's top picks on

>>>> > TV.

>>> Boardwalk for $500? In 2007? Ha!

>>> Play Monopoly Here and Now (it's updated for today's economy) at

>>> Games.

[Guest guest]

frozen or refrigerated licorice...mmmmmmm

Re: ( ) Intro and question

doesn't chew his OWN clothing too much anymore... He just chews everything else in sight.. couch, metal, plastic, wood, my hot glue sticks.. you name he chews on it. It's gotten so bad lately that I have been trying to find things to put in his special box that he can chew on... besides gum. Got any suggestions???JackieOn Jul 31, 2007, at 1:52 PM, and/or Robin Lemke wrote:

All of Ian's shirts have the "chew look" right under his chin. No matter what he's doing,,,,the collar of his t-shirt is in his mouth. It's so stretched out that even when I was them,,,,,they come out still "crinkled" from where it was chewed. AHHHHHHHHHH.......I love it.Robin <hunebear3@...> wrote:

What do you mean HALF INSANE??? I think I am as far insane as I canget!!! If chews on another pc of furniture or the door jamtoday it will send me over the edge!!!! It's like I have a new puppyto break of bad habits!!! He does have a chew necklace he is SUPPOSEDto wear... but he keeps losing it!! URGGHHHHH!!LOLJackieOn Jul 31, 2007, at 1:23 PM, and/or Robin Lemke wrote:> Why, thank you, Jackie......hee hee.> It's amazing how smart we get when we run around for years, half> insane trying to keep our lives together, huh?> Ha!!!!> Robin>> wrote:>> Robin.. great job with the explanation! Couldn't have done it better>> myself!! LOL>>>> Jackie>> On Jul 30, 2007, at 5:07 PM, and/or Robin Lemke wrote:>>>> > Hi Beth.>> > First, I'd make an appt with your pediatrician. They may give you>> > some questionnaires to fill out................kind of like>> > pin-pointing what the issues are.....or they may refer you to a>> > phychologist.>> > The psychol will talk with you and he/she is the one who will dx, if>> > there is something to dx.>> > Once you have a dx, you then decide what route to take. If there is>> > also attention problems or hyperactivity (or something else)>> > involved....which there usually is,,,,,,then you have to decide if >> you>> > will put him on meds.>> > Hopefully if you do that, the first meds will work. Sometimes they>> > don't and this will start a LONG ride for your son and you.>> > BUT,,,,remember that you are a great mom and thousands have gone>> > through this same thing and ......made it.>> > **>> > Benefits of a diagnosis are that you can get help at school. Some>> > schools are good - some not so good. But,,,,,having a dx will give>> > you the LEGAL right to demand certain things for your son that will>> > make it easier on him while at school.>> > A dx will also give you a reason why he does some of the things he>> > does. It at times can shut someone us who just thinks your son is>> > terrible and you are a bad mom. Saying that your son has a form of>> > autism that affects him socially may not change your life at>> > all,,,,but you DO have the right to let people know about it and>> hope>> > that they can deal better with you and your son once they know.>> > It also makes you an advocate for your son,,,,,and the>> > thousands/millions out there dealing with a spectrum disorder. The>> > more people know about the crap that these kids and families are>> going>> > through, hopefully in time, the world will treat them better. >> > ***>> > Being unable to read social cues is classic aspergers. HAVING>> little>> > social "awareness" is classic. Some see a therapist. Some are in>> > social skills groups. Some use "modeling" or social stories. >> > But,,,,,,,,it is something that will NEVER just come to them. YOu>> can>> > work with him in your own way,,,,,,,,but ultimately we all have to >> (or>> > have had to) realize that THIS IS WHO OUR KID IS. Bottom line. The>> > best thing for our family has been just ACCEPTING it. Not that we>> > don't want to integrate him and help him be able to fit>> > better,,,,,,but just realizing that he will never be a social>> > butterfly.....that he doesnt' mind being a loner........that if he >> is>> > to ever have a girlfriend or wife,,,,she will be a saint because she>> > is going to have to be the one to make the first MOVES and>> understand>> > that though all married people do have to change at times,,,,,,,that>> > Ian is not going to be able to change probably that hardest parts of>> > him that she'll have to deal with. Don't get me wrong,,,,Ian is>> > amazing!! He's an incredible funny, cute guy. I was just writing>> all>> > this because this past year has been the roughest yet,,,,,,and>> we've>> > done a lot of "learning".>> > So,,,,,,, >> > Feel free to ask questions any time. There are a lot of smart gals>> in>> > this group.>> > Good luck!!!>> > Robin>> >>> > Beth Manautou wrote:>> >> Hi,>> >>>> >> I am very new to AS. My 8 yro ds matches almost all of the>> >> symptoms. My son loves dinosaurs and has collected lots of books on>> >> them. He has read every book in the library on them and loves to >> draw>> >> them too. I knew something was not right though when this past>> year we>> >> were at a social function with other boys and they were all in a >> group>> >> and having fun and my son seemed to not even notice. He was bent>> over>> >> drawing dinosaurs in the sand and was oblivious to what was going>> on.>> >> Most of the time it seems like he is in another world. He draws>> what>> >> he sees in his head and can do this for long periods of time with>> >> extreme focus. I am somewhat happy to see that I now have more of >> an>> >> understanding of his world but at the same time I am scared too.>> Where>> >> do I start for having him diagnosed? Should I have him tested? How>> do>> >> they test? What are the positives of getting a diagnosis? What do >> you>> >> use to help develop better social skills? My son is extremely>> >> sensitive but unable to read nonverbal social cues. I see that I >> need>> >> to help him in this area but how?>> >>>> >> Thank you,>> >> Beth>> >>>> >>> > oneSearch: Finally, mobile search that gives answers, not web>> > links.> Ready for the edge of your seat? Check out tonight's top picks on > TV.Boardwalk for $500? In 2007? Ha!Play Monopoly Here and Now (it's updated for today's economy) at Games.

[Guest guest]

A swing! A mattress on the floor for jumping.

RoxannaAutism Happens

Re: ( ) Intro and question

I haven't postd much maybe once or twice. I'm a single mom w/ a 10 yr old girl aspie dx and add/adhd/tourettes and ocd/with a mood disorder. most days are good but man do we struggle sometimes I'm in the process of setting our spare bedroom up as a sensory room any suggestions as to what to put in it.? and/or Robin Lemke <jrisjs > wrote:

Hi Beth.

First, I'd make an appt with your pediatrician. They may give you some questionnaires to fill out................kind of like pin-pointing what the issues are.....or they may refer you to a phychologist.

The psychol will talk with you and he/she is the one who will dx, if there is something to dx.

Once you have a dx, you then decide what route to take. If there is also attention problems or hyperactivity (or something else) involved....which there usually is,,,,,,then you have to decide if you will put him on meds.

Hopefully if you do that, the first meds will work. Sometimes they don't and this will start a LONG ride for your son and you.

BUT,,,,remember that you are a great mom and thousands have gone through this same thing and ......made it.

**

Benefits of a diagnosis are that you can get help at school. Some schools are good - some not so good. But,,,,,having a dx will give you the LEGAL right to demand certain things for your son that will make it easier on him while at school.

A dx will also give you a reason why he does some of the things he does. It at times can shut someone us who just thinks your son is terrible and you are a bad mom. Saying that your son has a form of autism that affects him socially may not change your life at all,,,,but you DO have the right to let people know about it and hope that they can deal better with you and your son once they know.

It also makes you an advocate for your son,,,,,and the thousands/millions out there dealing with a spectrum disorder. The more people know about the crap that these kids and families are going through, hopefully in time, the world will treat them better.

***

Being unable to read social cues is classic aspergers. HAVING little social "awareness" is classic. Some see a therapist. Some are in social skills groups. Some use "modeling" or social stories. But,,,,,,,,it is something that will NEVER just come to them. YOu can work with him in your own way,,,,,,,,but ultimately we all have to (or have had to) realize that THIS IS WHO OUR KID IS. Bottom line. The best thing for our family has been just ACCEPTING it. Not that we don't want to integrate him and help him be able to fit better,,,,,,but just realizing that he will never be a social butterfly.....that he doesnt' mind being a loner........that if he is to ever have a girlfriend or wife,,,,she will be a saint because she is going to have to be the one to make the first MOVES and understand that though all married people do have to change at times,,,,,,,that Ian is not going to be able to change probably that hardest parts of him that she'll have to deal with. Don't get me wrong,,,,Ian is amazing!! He's an incredible funny, cute guy. I was just writing all this because this past year has been the roughest yet,,,,,,and we've done a lot of "learning".

So,,,,,,,

Feel free to ask questions any time. There are a lot of smart gals in this group.

Good luck!!!

RobinBeth Manautou <bmanautou > wrote:

Hi,I am very new to AS. My 8 yro ds matches almost all of the symptoms. My son loves dinosaurs and has collected lots of books on them. He has read every book in the library on them and loves to draw them too. I knew something was not right though when this past year we were at a social function with other boys and they were all in a group and having fun and my son seemed to not even notice. He was bent over drawing dinosaurs in the sand and was oblivious to what was going on. Most of the time it seems like he is in another world. He draws what he sees in his head and can do this for long periods of time with extreme focus. I am somewhat happy to see that I now have more of an understanding of his world but at the same time I am scared too. Where do I start for having him diagnosed? Should I have him tested? How do they test? What are the positives of getting a diagnosis? What do you use to help develop better social skills? My son is extremely sensitive but unable to read nonverbal social cues. I see that I need to help him in this area but how?Thank you,Beth

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have you had any blood work done? it sounds like classic pica. If his iron levels are low, an iron fortified supplement will help-but it takes months to build up iron levels in the blood. plus there is a cause for the anemia <hunebear3@...> wrote: doesn't chew his OWN clothing too much anymore... He just chews everything else in sight.. couch, metal, plastic, wood, my hot glue sticks.. you name he chews on it. It's gotten so bad lately that I have been trying to find things to put in his special box that he can chew on... besides gum. Got any suggestions???JackieOn Jul 31, 2007, at 1:52 PM, and/or Robin Lemke wrote:> All of Ian's shirts have the "chew look" right under his chin. No > matter what he's doing,,,,the collar of his t-shirt is in his mouth.

> It's so stretched out that even when I was them,,,,,they come out > still "crinkled" from where it was chewed. > AHHHHHHHHHH.......I love it.> Robin> wrote:>> What do you mean HALF INSANE??? I think I am as far insane as I can>> get!!! If chews on another pc of furniture or the door jam>> today it will send me over the edge!!!! It's like I have a new puppy>> to break of bad habits!!! He does have a chew necklace he is SUPPOSED>> to wear... but he keeps losing it!! URGGHHHHH!!>>>> LOL>> Jackie>> On Jul 31, 2007, at 1:23 PM, and/or Robin Lemke wrote:>>>> > Why, thank you, Jackie......hee hee.>> > It's amazing how smart we get when we run around for years, half>> > insane trying to keep our lives together, huh?>> > Ha!!!!>>

> Robin>> >>> > wrote:>> >> Robin.. great job with the explanation! Couldn't have done it >> better>> >> myself!! LOL>> >>>> >> Jackie>> >> On Jul 30, 2007, at 5:07 PM, and/or Robin Lemke wrote:>> >>>> >> > Hi Beth.>> >> > First, I'd make an appt with your pediatrician. They may give >> you>> >> > some questionnaires to fill out................kind of like>> >> > pin-pointing what the issues are.....or they may refer you to a>> >> > phychologist.>> >> > The psychol will talk with you and he/she is the one who will >> dx, if>> >> > there is something to dx.>> >> > Once you have a dx, you then decide what route to take. If >>

there is>> >> > also attention problems or hyperactivity (or something else)>> >> > involved....which there usually is,,,,,,then you have to decide >> if>> >> you>> >> > will put him on meds.>> >> > Hopefully if you do that, the first meds will work. Sometimes >> they>> >> > don't and this will start a LONG ride for your son and you.>> >> > BUT,,,,remember that you are a great mom and thousands have gone>> >> > through this same thing and ......made it.>> >> > **>> >> > Benefits of a diagnosis are that you can get help at school. >> Some>> >> > schools are good - some not so good. But,,,,,having a dx will >> give>> >> > you the LEGAL right to demand certain things for your son that

>> will>> >> > make it easier on him while at school.>> >> > A dx will also give you a reason why he does some of the things >> he>> >> > does. It at times can shut someone us who just thinks your son >> is>> >> > terrible and you are a bad mom. Saying that your son has a form >> of>> >> > autism that affects him socially may not change your life at>> >> > all,,,,but you DO have the right to let people know about it and>> >> hope>> >> > that they can deal better with you and your son once they know.>> >> > It also makes you an advocate for your son,,,,,and the>> >> > thousands/millions out there dealing with a spectrum disorder. >> The>> >> > more people know about the crap that these

kids and families are>> >> going>> >> > through, hopefully in time, the world will treat them better. >> >> > ***>> >> > Being unable to read social cues is classic aspergers. HAVING>> >> little>> >> > social "awareness" is classic. Some see a therapist. Some are >> in>> >> > social skills groups. Some use "modeling" or social stories. >> >> > But,,,,,,,,it is something that will NEVER just come to them. >> YOu>> >> can>> >> > work with him in your own way,,,,,,,,but ultimately we all have >> to>> >> (or>> >> > have had to) realize that THIS IS WHO OUR KID IS. Bottom line. >> The>> >> > best thing for our family has been just ACCEPTING it.

Not that >> we>> >> > don't want to integrate him and help him be able to fit>> >> > better,,,,,,but just realizing that he will never be a social>> >> > butterfly.....that he doesnt' mind being a loner........that if >> he>> >> is>> >> > to ever have a girlfriend or wife,,,,she will be a saint because >> she>> >> > is going to have to be the one to make the first MOVES and>> >> understand>> >> > that though all married people do have to change >> at times,,,,,,,that>> >> > Ian is not going to be able to change probably that hardest >> parts of>> >> > him that she'll have to deal with. Don't get me wrong,,,,Ian is>> >> > amazing!! He's an incredible funny, cute guy. I was just

>> writing>> >> all>> >> > this because this past year has been the roughest yet,,,,,,and>> >> we've>> >> > done a lot of "learning".>> >> > So,,,,,,, >> >> > Feel free to ask questions any time. There are a lot of smart >> gals>> >> in>> >> > this group.>> >> > Good luck!!!>> >> > Robin>> >> >>> >> > Beth Manautou wrote:>> >> >> Hi,>> >> >>>> >> >> I am very new to AS. My 8 yro ds matches almost all of the>> >> >> symptoms. My son loves dinosaurs and has collected lots of >> books on>> >> >> them. He has read every book in the library on them and loves to>> >> draw>>

>> >> them too. I knew something was not right though when this past>> >> year we>> >> >> were at a social function with other boys and they were all in a>> >> group>> >> >> and having fun and my son seemed to not even notice. He was bent>> >> over>> >> >> drawing dinosaurs in the sand and was oblivious to what was >> going>> >> on.>> >> >> Most of the time it seems like he is in another world. He draws>> >> what>> >> >> he sees in his head and can do this for long periods of time >> with>> >> >> extreme focus. I am somewhat happy to see that I now have more >> of>> >> an>> >> >> understanding of his world but at the same time I am scared too.>> >> Where>>

>> >> do I start for having him diagnosed? Should I have him tested? >> How>> >> do>> >> >> they test? What are the positives of getting a diagnosis? What >> do>> >> you>> >> >> use to help develop better social skills? My son is extremely>> >> >> sensitive but unable to read nonverbal social cues. I see that I>> >> need>> >> >> to help him in this area but how?>> >> >>>> >> >> Thank you,>> >> >> Beth>> >> >>>> >> >>> >> > oneSearch: Finally, mobile search that gives answers, not >> web>> >> > links.>> > Ready for the edge of your seat? Check out tonight's top picks on>> > TV.> Boardwalk for $500? In 2007?

Ha!> Play Monopoly Here and Now (it's updated for today's economy) at > Games.

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I don't know if it is necessarily pica, although she can have that checked if she likes. My own 10 yo is a chewer of things. He prefers plastic. When he was younger, it was his shirt or his shirt sleeve. Usually now it's plastic but it could be other things. Yesterday, he sat in the grocery cart and chewed the plastic lid of a tube of candy. I couldn't believe he wouldn't eat or suck on or chew the candy! Instead he was all over that plastic lid! argh!

RoxannaAutism Happens

Re: ( ) Intro and question

have you had any blood work done? it sounds like classic pica. If his iron levels are low, an iron fortified supplement will help-but it takes months to build up iron levels in the blood. plus there is a cause for the anemia <hunebear3comcast (DOT) net> wrote: doesn't chew his OWN clothing too much anymore... He just chews everything else in sight.. couch, metal, plastic, wood, my hot glue sticks.. you name he chews on it. It's gotten so bad lately that I have been trying to find things to put in his special box that he can chew on... besides gum. Got any suggestions???JackieOn Jul 31, 2007, at 1:52 PM, and/or Robin Lemke wrote:> All of Ian's shirts have the "chew look" right under his chin. No > matter what he's doing,,,,the collar of his t-shirt is in his mouth. > It's so stretched out that even when I was them,,,,,they come out > still "crinkled" from where it was chewed. > AHHHHHHHHHH.......I love it.> Robin> wrote:>> What do you mean HALF INSANE??? I think I am as far insane as I can>> get!!! If chews on another pc of furniture or the door jam>> today it will send me over the edge!!!! It's like I have a new puppy>> to break of bad habits!!! He does have a chew necklace he is SUPPOSED>> to wear... but he keeps losing it!! URGGHHHHH!!>>>> LOL>> Jackie>> On Jul 31, 2007, at 1:23 PM, and/or Robin Lemke wrote:>>>> > Why, thank you, Jackie......hee hee.>> > It's amazing how smart we get when we run around for years, half>> > insane trying to keep our lives together, huh?>> > Ha!!!!>> > Robin>> >>> > wrote:>> >> Robin.. great job with the explanation! Couldn't have done it >> better>> >> myself!! LOL>> >>>> >> Jackie>> >> On Jul 30, 2007, at 5:07 PM, and/or Robin Lemke wrote:>> >>>> >> > Hi Beth.>> >> > First, I'd make an appt with your pediatrician. They may give >> you>> >> > some questionnaires to fill out................kind of like>> >> > pin-pointing what the issues are.....or they may refer you to a>> >> > phychologist.>> >> > The psychol will talk with you and he/she is the one who will >> dx, if>> >> > there is something to dx.>> >> > Once you have a dx, you then decide what route to take. If >> there is>> >> > also attention problems or hyperactivity (or something else)>> >> > involved....which there usually is,,,,,,then you have to decide >> if>> >> you>> >> > will put him on meds.>> >> > Hopefully if you do that, the first meds will work. Sometimes >> they>> >> > don't and this will start a LONG ride for your son and you.>> >> > BUT,,,,remember that you are a great mom and thousands have gone>> >> > through this same thing and ......made it.>> >> > **>> >> > Benefits of a diagnosis are that you can get help at school. >> Some>> >> > schools are good - some not so good. But,,,,,having a dx will >> give>> >> > you the LEGAL right to demand certain things for your son that >> will>> >> > make it easier on him while at school.>> >> > A dx will also give you a reason why he does some of the things >> he>> >> > does. It at times can shut someone us who just thinks your son >> is>> >> > terrible and you are a bad mom. Saying that your son has a form >> of>> >> > autism that affects him socially may not change your life at>> >> > all,,,,but you DO have the right to let people know about it and>> >> hope>> >> > that they can deal better with you and your son once they know.>> >> > It also makes you an advocate for your son,,,,,and the>> >> > thousands/millions out there dealing with a spectrum disorder. >> The>> >> > more people know about the crap that these kids and families are>> >> going>> >> > through, hopefully in time, the world will treat them better. >> >> > ***>> >> > Being unable to read social cues is classic aspergers. HAVING>> >> little>> >> > social "awareness" is classic. Some see a therapist. Some are >> in>> >> > social skills groups. Some use "modeling" or social stories. >> >> > But,,,,,,,,it is something that will NEVER just come to them. >> YOu>> >> can>> >> > work with him in your own way,,,,,,,,but ultimately we all have >> to>> >> (or>> >> > have had to) realize that THIS IS WHO OUR KID IS. Bottom line. >> The>> >> > best thing for our family has been just ACCEPTING it. Not that >> we>> >> > don't want to integrate him and help him be able to fit>> >> > better,,,,,,but just realizing that he will never be a social>> >> > butterfly.....that he doesnt' mind being a loner........that if >> he>> >> is>> >> > to ever have a girlfriend or wife,,,,she will be a saint because >> she>> >> > is going to have to be the one to make the first MOVES and>> >> understand>> >> > that though all married people do have to change >> at times,,,,,,,that>> >> > Ian is not going to be able to change probably that hardest >> parts of>> >> > him that she'll have to deal with. Don't get me wrong,,,,Ian is>> >> > amazing!! He's an incredible funny, cute guy. I was just >> writing>> >> all>> >> > this because this past year has been the roughest yet,,,,,,and>> >> we've>> >> > done a lot of "learning".>> >> > So,,,,,,, >> >> > Feel free to ask questions any time. There are a lot of smart >> gals>> >> in>> >> > this group.>> >> > Good luck!!!>> >> > Robin>> >> >>> >> > Beth Manautou wrote:>> >> >> Hi,>> >> >>>> >> >> I am very new to AS. My 8 yro ds matches almost all of the>> >> >> symptoms. My son loves dinosaurs and has collected lots of >> books on>> >> >> them. He has read every book in the library on them and loves to>> >> draw>> >> >> them too. I knew something was not right though when this past>> >> year we>> >> >> were at a social function with other boys and they were all in a>> >> group>> >> >> and having fun and my son seemed to not even notice. He was bent>> >> over>> >> >> drawing dinosaurs in the sand and was oblivious to what was >> going>> >> on.>> >> >> Most of the time it seems like he is in another world. He draws>> >> what>> >> >> he sees in his head and can do this for long periods of time >> with>> >> >> extreme focus. I am somewhat happy to see that I now have more >> of>> >> an>> >> >> understanding of his world but at the same time I am scared too.>> >> Where>> >> >> do I start for having him diagnosed? Should I have him tested? >> How>> >> do>> >> >> they test? What are the positives of getting a diagnosis? What >> do>> >> you>> >> >> use to help develop better social skills? My son is extremely>> >> >> sensitive but unable to read nonverbal social cues. I see that I>> >> need>> >> >> to help him in this area but how?>> >> >>>> >> >> Thank you,>> >> >> Beth>> >> >>>> >> >>> >> > oneSearch: Finally, mobile search that gives answers, not >> web>> >> > links.>> > Ready for the edge of your seat? Check out tonight's top picks on>> > TV.> Boardwalk for $500? In 2007? Ha!> Play Monopoly Here and Now (it's updated for today's economy) at > Games.

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[Guest guest]

I have to kind of agree. I understand that for the most part, the initial questionnaire is good. It's there to be used as a "guide" I suppose. A starting point. Trouble is,,,,,,,,we never fit right in to any box. So,,,,,,,,ours were always written on....."explained" on the side. hee hee. No one ever complained.........they seemed to understand. *** We got one of our kids through foster care as well. Got her right out of the hospital, though. She met with her mom 3/wk for about 2 hrs each time for about 5 months. Every time she had to do paperwork (cause she was planning on keeping Sam),,,,it was the same way.....like she was talking about a different child. Nothing cruel or wacky.......just totally off-kilter. Oh well. I guess that's one of the reasons I'M THE MOMMY now. Hee hee. RobinDee DiMemmo

<craftychick70@...> wrote: I have to tell you that I am not a big fan of the questionnaires, mainly because we all have our own opinions. When I saw the one the former foster mother filled out regarding our son, it was like she was writing about a completelty different child! I think when they are used in conjunction with other evaluations they are helpful and/or Robin Lemke <jrisjs > wrote: Hi Beth. First, I'd make an appt with your pediatrician. They may give you some questionnaires to fill out................kind of like pin-pointing what the issues are.....or they may refer you to a phychologist. The psychol will talk with you and he/she is the one who will dx, if there is something to dx. Once you have a dx, you then decide what route to take. If there is also attention problems or hyperactivity (or something else) involved....which there usually is,,,,,,then you have to decide if you will put him on meds. Hopefully if you do that, the first meds will work. Sometimes they don't and this will start a LONG ride for your son and you. BUT,,,,remember that you are a great mom and thousands have gone through this same thing and ......made it. ** Benefits of a diagnosis are that you can get help at school.

Some schools are good - some not so good. But,,,,,having a dx will give you the LEGAL right to demand certain things for your son that will make it easier on him while at school. A dx will also give you a reason why he does some of the things he does. It at times can shut someone us who just thinks your son is terrible and you are a bad mom. Saying that your son has a form of autism that affects him socially may not change your life at all,,,,but you DO have the right to let people know about it and hope that they can deal better with you and your son once they know. It also makes you an advocate for your son,,,,,and the thousands/millions out there dealing with a spectrum disorder. The more people know about the crap that these kids and families are going through, hopefully in time, the world will treat them better. *** Being unable to read social cues is classic

aspergers. HAVING little social "awareness" is classic. Some see a therapist. Some are in social skills groups. Some use "modeling" or social stories. But,,,,,,,,it is something that will NEVER just come to them. YOu can work with him in your own way,,,,,,,,but ultimately we all have to (or have had to) realize that THIS IS WHO OUR KID IS. Bottom line. The best thing for our family has been just ACCEPTING it. Not that we don't want to integrate him and help him be able to fit better,,,,,,but just realizing that he will never be a social butterfly.....that he doesnt' mind being a loner........that if he is to ever have a girlfriend or wife,,,,she will be a saint because she is going to have to be the one to make the first MOVES and understand that though all married people do have to change at times,,,,,,,that Ian is not going to be able to change probably that hardest parts of him that

she'll have to deal with. Don't get me wrong,,,,Ian is amazing!! He's an incredible funny, cute guy. I was just writing all this because this past year has been the roughest yet,,,,,,and we've done a lot of "learning". So,,,,,,, Feel free to ask questions any time. There are a lot of smart gals in this group. Good luck!!! RobinBeth Manautou <bmanautou > wrote: Hi,I am very new to AS. My 8 yro ds matches almost all of the symptoms. My son loves dinosaurs and has collected lots of books on them. He has read every book in the library on them and loves to draw them too. I knew something was not right though when this past year we were at a social function with other boys and they were all in a

group and having fun and my son seemed to not even notice. He was bent over drawing dinosaurs in the sand and was oblivious to what was going on. Most of the time it seems like he is in another world. He draws what he sees in his head and can do this for long periods of time with extreme focus. I am somewhat happy to see that I now have more of an understanding of his world but at the same time I am scared too. Where do I start for having him diagnosed? Should I have him tested? How do they test? What are the positives of getting a diagnosis? What do you use to help develop better social skills? My son is extremely sensitive but unable to read nonverbal social cues. I see that I need to help him in this area but how?Thank you,Beth oneSearch: Finally, mobile search that gives answers, not web links. Take the Internet to Go: Go puts the Internet in your pocket: mail, news, photos more.

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And the compulsion to chew and bite things. Not to sound like a freakish doctor "know it all",,,,,but compulsions are HAVE TO DO things. Sounds to me like he has these compulsions. I don't know what,,,,,but I'm sure they have diff meds to help. Maybe some other meds our kids may take actually make it worse? That's a question for the other "docs" in this group? Hee hee. Anyway,,,,,, Maybe chat with the doc next appt? Robin <hunebear3@...> wrote: Well he's diagnosed "Obssessive Compulsive Associated with Aspergers! So I guess he is. LOL He doesn't HAVE to do the same thing over and over or repeat things three times or anything like that... but he has told me that he HAS to touch things... so I have put his hands

in his pockets!I guess some of his "behaviors" could be OCD... like pulling the skin off of his feet and picking his nose constantly????JackieOn Jul 31, 2007, at 6:28 PM, and/or Robin Lemke wrote:> Sam is a licker/chewer. She loves straws that are folded in 1/2.> Is he OCD?> Robin>> wrote:>> doesn't chew his OWN clothing too much anymore... He just >> chews>> everything else in sight.. couch, metal, plastic, wood, my hot glue>> sticks.. you name he chews on it. It's gotten so bad lately that I>> have been trying to find things to put in his special box that he can>> chew on... besides gum. Got any suggestions???>>>> Jackie>> On Jul 31, 2007, at 1:52 PM, and/or Robin Lemke wrote:>>>> > All of Ian's shirts have the "chew look" right

under his chin. No>> > matter what he's doing,,,,the collar of his t-shirt is in his >> mouth. >> > It's so stretched out that even when I was them,,,,,they come out>> > still "crinkled" from where it was chewed. >> > AHHHHHHHHHH.......I love it.>> > Robin>> > wrote:>> >> What do you mean HALF INSANE??? I think I am as far insane as I can>> >> get!!! If chews on another pc of furniture or the door jam>> >> today it will send me over the edge!!!! It's like I have a new >> puppy>> >> to break of bad habits!!! He does have a chew necklace he is >> SUPPOSED>> >> to wear... but he keeps losing it!! URGGHHHHH!!>> >>>> >> LOL>> >> Jackie>> >> On Jul 31, 2007, at 1:23 PM, and/or Robin

Lemke wrote:>> >>>> >> > Why, thank you, Jackie......hee hee.>> >> > It's amazing how smart we get when we run around for years, half>> >> > insane trying to keep our lives together, huh?>> >> > Ha!!!!>> >> > Robin>> >> >>> >> > wrote:>> >> >> Robin.. great job with the explanation! Couldn't have done it>> >> better>> >> >> myself!! LOL>> >> >>>> >> >> Jackie>> >> >> On Jul 30, 2007, at 5:07 PM, and/or Robin Lemke wrote:>> >> >>>> >> >> > Hi Beth.>> >> >> > First, I'd make an appt with your pediatrician. They may give>> >> you>> >> >> > some questionnaires to fill

out................kind of like>> >> >> > pin-pointing what the issues are.....or they may refer you to >> a>> >> >> > phychologist.>> >> >> > The psychol will talk with you and he/she is the one who will>> >> dx, if>> >> >> > there is something to dx.>> >> >> > Once you have a dx, you then decide what route to take. If>> >> there is>> >> >> > also attention problems or hyperactivity (or something else)>> >> >> > involved....which there usually is,,,,,,then you have to >> decide>> >> if>> >> >> you>> >> >> > will put him on meds.>> >> >> > Hopefully if you do that, the first meds will work. Sometimes>> >> they>> >>

>> > don't and this will start a LONG ride for your son and you.>> >> >> > BUT,,,,remember that you are a great mom and thousands have >> gone>> >> >> > through this same thing and ......made it.>> >> >> > **>> >> >> > Benefits of a diagnosis are that you can get help at school. >> >> Some>> >> >> > schools are good - some not so good. But,,,,,having a dx will>> >> give>> >> >> > you the LEGAL right to demand certain things for your son that>> >> will>> >> >> > make it easier on him while at school.>> >> >> > A dx will also give you a reason why he does some of the >> things>> >> he>> >> >> > does. It at times can shut someone us who just

thinks your >> son>> >> is>> >> >> > terrible and you are a bad mom. Saying that your son has a >> form>> >> of>> >> >> > autism that affects him socially may not change your life at>> >> >> > all,,,,but you DO have the right to let people know about it >> and>> >> >> hope>> >> >> > that they can deal better with you and your son once they >> know.>> >> >> > It also makes you an advocate for your son,,,,,and the>> >> >> > thousands/millions out there dealing with a spectrum >> disorder. >> >> The>> >> >> > more people know about the crap that these kids and families >> are>> >> >> going>> >> >> >

through, hopefully in time, the world will treat them better. >> >> >> > ***>> >> >> > Being unable to read social cues is classic aspergers. HAVING>> >> >> little>> >> >> > social "awareness" is classic. Some see a therapist. Some >> are>> >> in>> >> >> > social skills groups. Some use "modeling" or social stories. >> >> >> > But,,,,,,,,it is something that will NEVER just come to them. >> >> YOu>> >> >> can>> >> >> > work with him in your own way,,,,,,,,but ultimately we all >> have>> >> to>> >> >> (or>> >> >> > have had to) realize that THIS IS WHO OUR KID IS. Bottom >> line. >> >>

The>> >> >> > best thing for our family has been just ACCEPTING it. Not >> that>> >> we>> >> >> > don't want to integrate him and help him be able to fit>> >> >> > better,,,,,,but just realizing that he will never be a social>> >> >> > butterfly.....that he doesnt' mind being a loner........that >> if>> >> he>> >> >> is>> >> >> > to ever have a girlfriend or wife,,,,she will be a saint >> because>> >> she>> >> >> > is going to have to be the one to make the first MOVES and>> >> >> understand>> >> >> > that though all married people do have to change>> >> at times,,,,,,,that>> >> >> > Ian is not going to be able to change

probably that hardest>> >> parts of>> >> >> > him that she'll have to deal with. Don't get me wrong,,,,Ian >> is>> >> >> > amazing!! He's an incredible funny, cute guy. I was just>> >> writing>> >> >> all>> >> >> > this because this past year has been the >> roughest yet,,,,,,and>> >> >> we've>> >> >> > done a lot of "learning".>> >> >> > So,,,,,,, >> >> >> > Feel free to ask questions any time. There are a lot of smart>> >> gals>> >> >> in>> >> >> > this group.>> >> >> > Good luck!!!>> >> >> > Robin>> >> >> >>> >> >> >

Beth Manautou wrote:>> >> >> >> Hi,>> >> >> >>>> >> >> >> I am very new to AS. My 8 yro ds matches almost all of the>> >> >> >> symptoms. My son loves dinosaurs and has collected lots of>> >> books on>> >> >> >> them. He has read every book in the library on them and >> loves to>> >> >> draw>> >> >> >> them too. I knew something was not right though when this >> past>> >> >> year we>> >> >> >> were at a social function with other boys and they were all >> in a>> >> >> group>> >> >> >> and having fun and my son seemed to not even notice. He was >> bent>> >> >> over>> >> >> >> drawing

dinosaurs in the sand and was oblivious to what was>> >> going>> >> >> on.>> >> >> >> Most of the time it seems like he is in another world. He >> draws>> >> >> what>> >> >> >> he sees in his head and can do this for long periods of time>> >> with>> >> >> >> extreme focus. I am somewhat happy to see that I now have >> more>> >> of>> >> >> an>> >> >> >> understanding of his world but at the same time I am scared >> too.>> >> >> Where>> >> >> >> do I start for having him diagnosed? Should I have him >> tested?>> >> How>> >> >> do>> >> >> >> they test? What are the positives of getting a diagnosis?

>> What>> >> do>> >> >> you>> >> >> >> use to help develop better social skills? My son is extremely>> >> >> >> sensitive but unable to read nonverbal social cues. I see >> that I>> >> >> need>> >> >> >> to help him in this area but how?>> >> >> >>>> >> >> >> Thank you,>> >> >> >> Beth>> >> >> >>>> >> >> >>> >> >> > oneSearch: Finally, mobile search that gives answers, >> not>> >> web>> >> >> > links.>> >> > Ready for the edge of your seat? Check out tonight's top picks on>> >> > TV.>> > Boardwalk for $500? In 2007? Ha!>> >

Play Monopoly Here and Now (it's updated for today's economy) at>> > Games.> Boardwalk for $500? In 2007? Ha!> Play Monopoly Here and Now (it's updated for today's economy) at > Games.

oneSearch: Finally, mobile search that gives answers, not web links.

[Guest guest]

Ohhhh.....that's good, Dee. Jack had Pica. He ate dirt,,,,,rocks,,,,,,,sand,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,all that crap. Told the ped when he was about 2-3??? They did an iron test and sure enough. He had to take iron for a bit,,,,,,and that seemed to "solve it". RobinDee DiMemmo <craftychick70@...> wrote: have you had any blood work done? it sounds like classic pica. If his iron levels are low, an iron fortified supplement will help-but it takes months to build up

iron levels in the blood. plus there is a cause for the anemia <hunebear3comcast (DOT) net> wrote: doesn't chew his OWN clothing too much anymore... He just chews everything else in sight.. couch, metal, plastic, wood, my hot glue sticks.. you name he chews on it. It's gotten so bad lately that I have been trying to find things to put in his special box that he can chew on... besides gum. Got any suggestions???JackieOn Jul 31, 2007, at 1:52 PM, and/or Robin Lemke wrote:> All of Ian's shirts have the "chew look" right under his chin. No > matter what he's doing,,,,the collar of his t-shirt is in his mouth. > It's so stretched out that even when I was them,,,,,they come out > still "crinkled" from where it was chewed. > AHHHHHHHHHH.......I love it.>

Robin> wrote:>> What do you mean HALF INSANE??? I think I am as far insane as I can>> get!!! If chews on another pc of furniture or the door jam>> today it will send me over the edge!!!! It's like I have a new puppy>> to break of bad habits!!! He does have a chew necklace he is SUPPOSED>> to wear... but he keeps losing it!! URGGHHHHH!!>>>> LOL>> Jackie>> On Jul 31, 2007, at 1:23 PM, and/or Robin Lemke wrote:>>>> > Why, thank you, Jackie......hee hee.>> > It's amazing how smart we get when we run around for years, half>> > insane trying to keep our lives together, huh?>> > Ha!!!!>> > Robin>> >>> > wrote:>> >> Robin.. great job with the explanation! Couldn't have done it >> better>>

>> myself!! LOL>> >>>> >> Jackie>> >> On Jul 30, 2007, at 5:07 PM, and/or Robin Lemke wrote:>> >>>> >> > Hi Beth.>> >> > First, I'd make an appt with your pediatrician. They may give >> you>> >> > some questionnaires to fill out................kind of like>> >> > pin-pointing what the issues are.....or they may refer you to a>> >> > phychologist.>> >> > The psychol will talk with you and he/she is the one who will >> dx, if>> >> > there is something to dx.>> >> > Once you have a dx, you then decide what route to take. If >> there is>> >> > also attention problems or hyperactivity (or something else)>> >> > involved....which there usually is,,,,,,then you have to

decide >> if>> >> you>> >> > will put him on meds.>> >> > Hopefully if you do that, the first meds will work. Sometimes >> they>> >> > don't and this will start a LONG ride for your son and you.>> >> > BUT,,,,remember that you are a great mom and thousands have gone>> >> > through this same thing and ......made it.>> >> > **>> >> > Benefits of a diagnosis are that you can get help at school. >> Some>> >> > schools are good - some not so good. But,,,,,having a dx will >> give>> >> > you the LEGAL right to demand certain things for your son that >> will>> >> > make it easier on him while at school.>> >> > A dx will also give you a reason why he does some of the things >>

he>> >> > does. It at times can shut someone us who just thinks your son >> is>> >> > terrible and you are a bad mom. Saying that your son has a form >> of>> >> > autism that affects him socially may not change your life at>> >> > all,,,,but you DO have the right to let people know about it and>> >> hope>> >> > that they can deal better with you and your son once they know.>> >> > It also makes you an advocate for your son,,,,,and the>> >> > thousands/millions out there dealing with a spectrum disorder. >> The>> >> > more people know about the crap that these kids and families are>> >> going>> >> > through, hopefully in time, the world will treat them better. >> >> >

***>> >> > Being unable to read social cues is classic aspergers. HAVING>> >> little>> >> > social "awareness" is classic. Some see a therapist. Some are >> in>> >> > social skills groups. Some use "modeling" or social stories. >> >> > But,,,,,,,,it is something that will NEVER just come to them. >> YOu>> >> can>> >> > work with him in your own way,,,,,,,,but ultimately we all have >> to>> >> (or>> >> > have had to) realize that THIS IS WHO OUR KID IS. Bottom line. >> The>> >> > best thing for our family has been just ACCEPTING it. Not that >> we>> >> > don't want to integrate him and help him be able to fit>> >> > better,,,,,,but just realizing that

he will never be a social>> >> > butterfly.....that he doesnt' mind being a loner........that if >> he>> >> is>> >> > to ever have a girlfriend or wife,,,,she will be a saint because >> she>> >> > is going to have to be the one to make the first MOVES and>> >> understand>> >> > that though all married people do have to change >> at times,,,,,,,that>> >> > Ian is not going to be able to change probably that hardest >> parts of>> >> > him that she'll have to deal with. Don't get me wrong,,,,Ian is>> >> > amazing!! He's an incredible funny, cute guy. I was just >> writing>> >> all>> >> > this because this past year has been the roughest yet,,,,,,and>>

>> we've>> >> > done a lot of "learning".>> >> > So,,,,,,, >> >> > Feel free to ask questions any time. There are a lot of smart >> gals>> >> in>> >> > this group.>> >> > Good luck!!!>> >> > Robin>> >> >>> >> > Beth Manautou wrote:>> >> >> Hi,>> >> >>>> >> >> I am very new to AS. My 8 yro ds matches almost all of the>> >> >> symptoms. My son loves dinosaurs and has collected lots of >> books on>> >> >> them. He has read every book in the library on them and loves to>> >> draw>> >> >> them too. I knew something was not right though when this past>> >> year we>> >> >> were at a social

function with other boys and they were all in a>> >> group>> >> >> and having fun and my son seemed to not even notice. He was bent>> >> over>> >> >> drawing dinosaurs in the sand and was oblivious to what was >> going>> >> on.>> >> >> Most of the time it seems like he is in another world. He draws>> >> what>> >> >> he sees in his head and can do this for long periods of time >> with>> >> >> extreme focus. I am somewhat happy to see that I now have more >> of>> >> an>> >> >> understanding of his world but at the same time I am scared too.>> >> Where>> >> >> do I start for having him diagnosed? Should I have him tested? >> How>> >> do>> >> >> they

test? What are the positives of getting a diagnosis? What >> do>> >> you>> >> >> use to help develop better social skills? My son is extremely>> >> >> sensitive but unable to read nonverbal social cues. I see that I>> >> need>> >> >> to help him in this area but how?>> >> >>>> >> >> Thank you,>> >> >> Beth>> >> >>>> >> >>> >> > oneSearch: Finally, mobile search that gives answers, not >> web>> >> > links.>> > Ready for the edge of your seat? Check out tonight's top picks on>> > TV.> Boardwalk for $500? In 2007? Ha!> Play Monopoly Here and Now (it's updated for today's economy) at > Games. Looking for a deal?

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[Guest guest]

It's on my list of stuff to talk about!!! It's one of the " freakish "

things he does at school that the other kids talk about or are grossed

out by... so I want to see if there is somthing that I can do to help

correct it.

Jackie

On Aug 1, 2007, at 7:39 AM, and/or Robin Lemke wrote:

> And the compulsion to chew and bite things.  Not to sound like a

> freakish doctor " know it all " ,,,,,but compulsions are HAVE TO DO

> things.   Sounds to me like he has these compulsions.  I don't know

> what,,,,,but I'm sure they have diff meds to help.  Maybe some other

> meds our kids may take actually make it worse? 

> That's a question for the other " docs " in this group?  Hee hee.

> Anyway,,,,,,

> Maybe chat with the doc next appt?

> Robin

>

> <hunebear3@...> wrote:

>> Well he's diagnosed " Obssessive Compulsive Associated with Aspergers!

>> So I guess he is. LOL He doesn't HAVE to do the same thing over and

>> over or repeat things three times or anything like that... but he has

>> told me that he HAS to touch things... so I have put his hands in his

>> pockets!

>>

>> I guess some of his " behaviors " could be OCD... like pulling the skin

>> off of his feet and picking his nose constantly????

>>

>> Jackie

>> On Jul 31, 2007, at 6:28 PM, and/or Robin Lemke wrote:

>>

>> > Sam is a licker/chewer.  She loves straws that are folded in 1/2.

>> > Is he OCD?

>> > Robin

>> >

>> > wrote:

>> >> doesn't chew his OWN clothing too much anymore... He just

>> >> chews

>> >> everything else in sight.. couch, metal, plastic, wood, my hot glue

>> >> sticks.. you name he chews on it. It's gotten so bad lately that I

>> >> have been trying to find things to put in his special box that he

>> can

>> >> chew on... besides gum. Got any suggestions???

>> >>

>> >> Jackie

>> >> On Jul 31, 2007, at 1:52 PM, and/or Robin Lemke wrote:

>> >>

>> >> > All of Ian's shirts have the " chew look " right under his chin. 

>> No

>> >> > matter what he's doing,,,,the collar of his t-shirt is in his

>> >> mouth. 

>> >> > It's so stretched out that even when I was them,,,,,they come out

>> >> > still " crinkled " from where it was chewed. 

>> >> > AHHHHHHHHHH.......I love it.

>> >> > Robin

>> >> > wrote:

>> >> >> What do you mean HALF INSANE??? I think I am as far insane as I

>> can

>> >> >> get!!! If chews on another pc of furniture or the door

>> jam

>> >> >> today it will send me over the edge!!!! It's like I have a new

>> >> puppy

>> >> >> to break of bad habits!!! He does have a chew necklace he is

>> >> SUPPOSED

>> >> >> to wear... but he keeps losing it!! URGGHHHHH!!

>> >> >>

>> >> >> LOL

>> >> >> Jackie

>> >> >> On Jul 31, 2007, at 1:23 PM, and/or Robin Lemke wrote:

>> >> >>

>> >> >> > Why, thank you, Jackie......hee hee.

>> >> >> > It's amazing how smart we get when we run around for years,

>> half

>> >> >> > insane trying to keep our lives together, huh?

>> >> >> > Ha!!!!

>> >> >> > Robin

>> >> >> >

>> >> >> > wrote:

>> >> >> >> Robin.. great job with the explanation! Couldn't have done it

>> >> >> better

>> >> >> >> myself!! LOL

>> >> >> >>

>> >> >> >> Jackie

>> >> >> >> On Jul 30, 2007, at 5:07 PM, and/or Robin Lemke wrote:

>> >> >> >>

>> >> >> >> > Hi Beth.

>> >> >> >> > First, I'd make an appt with your pediatrician.  They may

>> give

>> >> >> you

>> >> >> >> > some questionnaires to fill out................kind of like

>> >> >> >> > pin-pointing what the issues are.....or they may refer you

>> to

>> >> a

>> >> >> >> > phychologist.

>> >> >> >> > The psychol will talk with you and he/she is the one who

>> will

>> >> >> dx, if

>> >> >> >> > there is something to dx.

>> >> >> >> > Once you have a dx, you then decide what route to take.  If

>> >> >> there is

>> >> >> >> > also attention problems or hyperactivity (or something

>> else)

>> >> >> >> > involved....which there usually is,,,,,,then you have to

>> >> decide

>> >> >> if

>> >> >> >> you

>> >> >> >> > will put him on meds.

>> >> >> >> > Hopefully if you do that, the first meds will work. 

>> Sometimes

>> >> >> they

>> >> >> >> > don't and this will start a LONG ride for your son and you.

>> >> >> >> > BUT,,,,remember that you are a great mom and thousands have

>> >> gone

>> >> >> >> > through this same thing and ......made it.

>> >> >> >> > **

>> >> >> >> > Benefits of a diagnosis are that you can get help at

>> school. 

>> >> >> Some

>> >> >> >> > schools are good - some not so good.  But,,,,,having a dx

>> will

>> >> >> give

>> >> >> >> > you the LEGAL right to demand certain things for your son

>> that

>> >> >> will

>> >> >> >> > make it easier on him while at school.

>> >> >> >> > A dx will also give you a reason why he does some of the

>> >> things

>> >> >> he

>> >> >> >> > does.  It at times can shut someone us who just thinks your

>> >> son

>> >> >> is

>> >> >> >> > terrible and you are a bad mom.  Saying that your son has a

>> >> form

>> >> >> of

>> >> >> >> > autism that affects him socially may not change your life

>> at

>> >> >> >> > all,,,,but you DO have the right to let people know about

>> it

>> >> and

>> >> >> >> hope

>> >> >> >> > that they can deal better with you and your son once they

>> >> know.

>> >> >> >> > It also makes you an advocate for your son,,,,,and the

>> >> >> >> > thousands/millions out there dealing with a spectrum

>> >> disorder. 

>> >> >> The

>> >> >> >> > more people know about the crap that these kids and

>> families

>> >> are

>> >> >> >> going

>> >> >> >> > through, hopefully in time, the world will treat them

>> better. 

>> >> >> >> > ***

>> >> >> >> > Being unable to read social cues is classic aspergers. 

>> HAVING

>> >> >> >> little

>> >> >> >> > social " awareness " is classic.  Some see a therapist.  Some

>> >> are

>> >> >> in

>> >> >> >> > social skills groups.  Some use " modeling " or social

>> stories. 

>> >> >> >> > But,,,,,,,,it is something that will NEVER just come to

>> them. 

>> >> >> YOu

>> >> >> >> can

>> >> >> >> > work with him in your own way,,,,,,,,but ultimately we all

>> >> have

>> >> >> to

>> >> >> >> (or

>> >> >> >> > have had to) realize that THIS IS WHO OUR KID IS.  Bottom

>> >> line. 

>> >> >> The

>> >> >> >> > best thing for our family has been just ACCEPTING it.  Not

>> >> that

>> >> >> we

>> >> >> >> > don't want to integrate him and help him be able to fit

>> >> >> >> > better,,,,,,but just realizing that he will never be a

>> social

>> >> >> >> > butterfly.....that he doesnt' mind being a

>> loner........that

>> >> if

>> >> >> he

>> >> >> >> is

>> >> >> >> > to ever have a girlfriend or wife,,,,she will be a saint

>> >> because

>> >> >> she

>> >> >> >> > is going to have to be the one to make the first MOVES and

>> >> >> >> understand

>> >> >> >> > that though all married people do have to change

>> >> >> at times,,,,,,,that

>> >> >> >> > Ian is not going to be able to change probably that hardest

>> >> >> parts of

>> >> >> >> > him that she'll have to deal with.  Don't get me

>> wrong,,,,Ian

>> >> is

>> >> >> >> > amazing!!  He's an incredible funny, cute guy.  I was just

>> >> >> writing

>> >> >> >> all

>> >> >> >> > this because  this past year has been the

>> >> roughest yet,,,,,,and

>> >> >> >> we've

>> >> >> >> > done a lot of " learning " .

>> >> >> >> > So,,,,,,, 

>> >> >> >> > Feel free to ask questions any time.  There are a lot of

>> smart

>> >> >> gals

>> >> >> >> in

>> >> >> >> > this group.

>> >> >> >> > Good luck!!!

>> >> >> >> > Robin

>> >> >> >> >

>> >> >> >> > Beth Manautou wrote:

>> >> >> >> >> Hi,

>> >> >> >> >>

>> >> >> >> >> I am very new to AS. My 8 yro ds matches almost all of the

>> >> >> >> >> symptoms. My son loves dinosaurs and has collected lots of

>> >> >> books on

>> >> >> >> >> them. He has read every book in the library on them and

>> >> loves to

>> >> >> >> draw

>> >> >> >> >> them too. I knew something was not right though when this

>> >> past

>> >> >> >> year we

>> >> >> >> >> were at a social function with other boys and they were

>> all

>> >> in a

>> >> >> >> group

>> >> >> >> >> and having fun and my son seemed to not even notice. He

>> was

>> >> bent

>> >> >> >> over

>> >> >> >> >> drawing dinosaurs in the sand and was oblivious to what

>> was

>> >> >> going

>> >> >> >> on.

>> >> >> >> >> Most of the time it seems like he is in another world. He

>> >> draws

>> >> >> >> what

>> >> >> >> >> he sees in his head and can do this for long periods of

>> time

>> >> >> with

>> >> >> >> >> extreme focus. I am somewhat happy to see that I now have

>> >> more

>> >> >> of

>> >> >> >> an

>> >> >> >> >> understanding of his world but at the same time I am

>> scared

>> >> too.

>> >> >> >> Where

>> >> >> >> >> do I start for having him diagnosed? Should I have him

>> >> tested?

>> >> >> How

>> >> >> >> do

>> >> >> >> >> they test? What are the positives of getting a diagnosis?

>> >> What

>> >> >> do

>> >> >> >> you

>> >> >> >> >> use to help develop better social skills? My son is

>> extremely

>> >> >> >> >> sensitive but unable to read nonverbal social cues. I see

>> >> that I

>> >> >> >> need

>> >> >> >> >> to help him in this area but how?

>> >> >> >> >>

>> >> >> >> >> Thank you,

>> >> >> >> >> Beth

>> >> >> >> >>

>> >> >> >> >

>> >> >> >> > oneSearch: Finally, mobile search that gives

>> answers,

>> >> not

>> >> >> web

>> >> >> >> > links.

>> >> >> > Ready for the edge of your seat? Check out tonight's top

>> picks on

>> >> >> > TV.

>> >> > Boardwalk for $500? In 2007? Ha!

>> >> > Play Monopoly Here and Now (it's updated for today's economy) at

>> >> > Games.

>> > Boardwalk for $500? In 2007? Ha!

>> > Play Monopoly Here and Now (it's updated for today's economy) at

>> > Games.

> oneSearch: Finally, mobile search that gives answers, not web

> links.