A LETTER FROM CINDY, A LISTENER

Dear Coach Lynn,

I believe that my baby daughter, age 2, may have Autism but I am not sure.  The thing is, I have always heard that if she does have Autism, she will never learn and neverhave a real chance for having a good life.  It makes me so sad and I don't know what to do.  Please help.  I love your show.  Cindy

Cindy,  thank you for sending me your letter about your daughter.  I understand that you are afraid to think that she may have Autism.  however, you will not be in any position ot help her if you don't move beyond being paralyzed.  Let your love for your daughter guide your steps.

Recently, we did a show on Autism.  Many parents wanted to know what signs to look for in their children.  In recent years, over a million children were born with Autism Spectrum Disorder.  Some argue the causes are vaccinations and even perhaps our food supply but the cause is unknown.  Still there are fascinating aspects of the Autistic mind.  How can an autistic child who won't talk to you solve complex mathematical equations?  ASD varies widely in severity and symptoms and may go unrecognized, especially in mildly affected children or when it is masked by more debilitating handicaps.  Very early indicators that require evaluation by an expert include:

• no babbling or pointing by age 1: *no single words by 16 months or two-word phrases by age 2: *no response to name  *loss of language or social skills  *poor eye contact
• excessive lining up of toys or objects:  *no smiling or social responsiveness  *impaired ability to make friends with peers  *impaired ability to initiate or sustain a conversation with others  *absence or impairment of imaginative and social play
• stereotyped, repetitive, or unusual use of language  *restricted patterns of interest that are abnormal in intensity or focus  *preoccupation with certain objects or subjects  *inflexible adherence to specific routines or rituals.

When a parent receives the news that their baby is Autistic, what is the first thing they should do?  NOT GIVE UP.  Despite what some common misconceptions are Cindy, your child can learn and can live a happy life.  It will be up to you, however, to get him or her tested to see where they are on the spectrum of Autism.  Then, work along with the professionals to find a supportive learning environment for your child.  Do your research and learn as much as you can.  And be ready to question, challenge and stand up for the right of your child to be treated with dignity.

Our children are by far our best assets-All of our children.  And whether that child is autistic, short, tall, creative, athletic, or whatever...what's most important is that he or she gets the message that noone gets to decide whether they are good enough or not.  Most importantly, advocate for your child.  Don't worry about whether people will like you or not.  Your child's safety, health and welfare are worth more than your worry over someone else's approval.  Give your child th is vital message:

You are beautiful and wonder just because you are!

Prosper!
Coach Lynn