Today was the last day of evaluations at the Autism center for our 4 year old son.
We've been through a speech eval and an occupational therapy eval already, and today's visit was with the child psychologist.
Though it's been a long few days (partially because we also unexpectedly conquered his fear of elevators this week), the tests themselves are fun for my son because they are most play-based assessments. The doctors are cheerful and offer positive reinforcement, which he really likes.
After being on a waiting list for what seemed like forever (It was over a year, and that's a really long time to go without developmental therapy, except for what little he gets at preschool) we will finally have a full diagnosis and many more doors will begin to open. We will meet with them again, conference style, in a couple of weeks to hear their thoughts and make a plan of treatment.
From here, more opportunities to help our son develop will be available to us, and some of those even reach beyond traditional treatment. I hope to have him in music therapy by Summer, as well as motor skills boot camp, and equestrian therapy camp in a year or so (he has to be a little older and a little more coordinated before he can engage in therapy with horses). However, that is assuming we will be able to afford them. We are trying very hard.
Next month is Autism Awareness month.
If you are reading this, please engage with someone who has autism. It's not easy and you may not get the reaction you were expecting, but it does become easier with practice.
Just remember that every person with Autism is different, and what worked with the first person you engage may not work so well with the next. And sometimes it takes many tries before they will open up to you and show you how truly unique, intelligent, and amazing they are.
But please, please don't stop trying. We need more understanding in this world.
If you are unsure of where to begin, it's okay. Don't be afraid to ask me questions. I'm here to help!
Here are a few articles to help you get started:
