Dr. Don Sturz, Director of Program Development, Gersh Academy:
You want to look in areas as far as language development, social skills, motor development, that type of thing. So if you have a child whose language development is off pace, check it out. Doesn’t seem to be developing the peer interactions, isn’t developing the social awareness and social interaction capabilities that they should be, that appear to be age-appropriate, that’s a red flag.
ANNOUNCER:
Genetics and environment are both thought to be potential causes of these disorders, but, despite the myths, poor parenting has never been a factor. Red flags can often be ignored or misunderstood, but the extra attention these kids need can be well worth the effort.
Dr. Don Sturz, Director of Program Development, Gersh Academy:
Things are identified as being behavior problems when it’s not really a behavior problem, it’s really a symptom. And there’s a big distinction between the two people will, you know, say, “oh, well, they’ll grow out of it.” And sometimes it’s the case, but frequently not. And so the earlier you can intervene the better.
Lisa, Daughter Has Asperger’s Syndrome:
I mean, as hard as it can be to be Jessica’s mom sometimes, I wouldn’t trade it for anything in the world. I mean, if I’m overwhelmed, I look at her, and then it’s all worthwhile. I mean, she’s just fantastic.
ANNOUNCER:
Thanks for joining us on today’s Once Daily!
