
Autism / Autism Spectrum Support Group
Autism is classified as a neurodevelopmental disorder which manifests itself in markedly abnormal social interaction, communication ability, patterns of interests, and patterns of behavior. Although the specific etiology of autism is unknown, many researchers suspect that autism results from genetically mediated vulnerabilities to environmental triggers.
Couldn't hurt to try.
My son's aide is wonderful. However, she had to leave on a medical leave quite suddenly last year for approximately 6 weeks. They replaced her with an aide who knew nothing of ASD's. I discovered this after she wrote in my son's journal that comes home to me each day. I could tell based on what she wrote that she thought my son had a behavior disorder. She actually asked me if she could give my son candy if he listened to her. It was then I went to the school to speak with the Principal/Vice-Principal. I then discovered she knew nothing about ASD's, nor how to handle a child with it. I then decided to meet with her and give her information regarding my son's issues. The school also put her in training while my son was in his speech and social skills classes. He was also having difficulties with her as she didn't understand where he was coming from. Things started to get better towards the end, once she received the training. I think it's important to speak with the school about it if you see any problems, whatsoever.
But, my son was and is much better off with his original aide. I agree with Challenger on this, the schools are unprepared. I also have to mention in my son's district, aides start out at roughly $8 per hour. I don't think it's very much considering what they do and have to know, but then I think the same of teacher's salaries.
I think there should be some sort of guideline set in place for who they allow to work with our special needs children, it makes all the difference in the world. For now however, the best hope for our kids is us as parents going in and fighting for what our kids are entitled to.