April 9, 2012

Throughout this quarter, I would like to get a better understanding on what parent does when they find out their child has autism? I have worked with children on the autistic spectrum but, an individualized education plan has already been placed into affect. When a parent finds out their child is autistic, are there classes they are suggested to take? Or, do they have to do all of the research on their own in order to make sure their child is treated fairly?

After some research I found this website that helps ease the parents as they are finding out their child has a disability. They explain that they need to take it one day at a time and to consult the pediatrician or psychologist for any concerning questions. They also make a point to say, "Get educated. When looking at this new problem, what’s scary about it is the unknown. Once you understand the problem better and you have a plan on how to help your child, the problem won’t seem so scary; it will no longer be unknown.”

http://www.naddc.org/finding-out-your-child-is-disabled.htm

While further reading through the website I found an interesting story about a seven year old boy named Kaleb. His behavior was hard to deal with but, his mom adopted a service dog (a Labrador retriever). Instantly, Kaleb's behavior changed. The dog helped so much that Kaleb's mom took the school to court, fighting for Kaleb to be allowed his service dog at school. She won, and now Kaleb takes the dog to school with him every day. I find it interesting to read about what techniques work for certain children. I wouldn't have thought a service dog would have been able to provide the help Kaleb needed but this story has proved me wrong.