Journal Of Special Needs Education
My son has a diagnosis of Austism Spectrum Disorder. I am an educator and counselor. I fear we may be getting so wrapped up in statistics that we may miss something. Each case must be an individual case and parents need to listen to their gut instincts. (Not the “I am so tired of him not paying attention” or “would the school keep calling if there was not a problem”). Most of the time no one knows a child like his or her parent and that parent needs to listen to and respect his or her gut. DO NOT BE AFRAID to question. Question the doctor, question the school, etc. Find qualified and expereinced professionals. Not every general pediatrician is qualified to determin e many disorders. The good ones know it and refer to the most appropriate professionals. Question until you are comfortable with the amount and quality of information you have received in order to make a decision. If someone does not like answering the questions and wants you to take them at their word, MOVE ON! Medical, psychological and developmental care of children is a team effort and mom and dad are the team leaders. Every child is different and their needs are different.
The best part…this whole conversation is taking place because we care about children and for that reason every comment is essential. Sorry, the counselor came out.
