15. Raising a Child With Autism: The Importance of Early Detection and Finding a Support System

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In this episode, Nia shares how she discovered her son, Jerry, is autistic. We discuss the signs of autism, the importance of early detection, the challenges, and the wins. We also discuss insurance, tips for families who are just discovering their child has autism, and planning the future for Jerry and her neurotypical daughter, Joy.

April is National Autism Awareness Month, and I want to give a huge thanks to my cousin for sharing her story of love and triumph.

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• Nia noticed at age 1 that Jerry wasn’t talking, but the doctor said she just needed to read to him more and stop comparing him to other children.
• Jerry was meeting all the expected milestones except for communication, and between the ages of one and two, he started saying “thank you.”
• After moving from Chicago to Florida, he met with another doctor for his two-year wellness visit, and she suggested taking him to Early Steps after hearing Nia’s concerns.
• The doctors pointed out that he didn’t sustain eye contact and he played with his toys differently.
• By two and a half, he had met with a series of professionals and was diagnosed with Pervasive Developmental Disorder Not Otherwise Specified (PPD-NOS)
• Since Jerry was in the early intervention program in Florida, he was eligible for free occupational and speech therapy until age 3.
• At 3, he was able to start Pre-K, but it was scary putting him on the bus, knowing he couldn’t communicate if something went wrong.
• She was so thankful to have the support of her husband and mom.
• I wouldn’t change it because I love my son. And although I may have had one vision for him in the beginning, what he is and the progress that he makes just makes me more proud of him every day. – Nia
• Nia discusses what insurance covers. Luckily, her husband’s insurance covers Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy.
• We discuss the importance of early detection.
• Therapy has helped make progress in talking, controlling meltdowns, schoolwork, and Jerry now plays at recess and has become more social.
• Nia discusses planning the future for a neurotypical child and a child with autism.
• TIPS from Nia
  • If you are just discovering your child has autism, know things will get better
  • Make sure you  find your community/support system
  • Read everything you can, but don’t believe everything you read – Nia

LINK LOVE

• VizZle Player App (Apple)
• Autism speaks (website)
• Autism Society (website)

WHERE’S NACHÉ

Website: nachesnow.com
Instagram: @nachesnow
Twitter: @nachesnow
LinkedIn: nachesnow
Podcast: Studio 78
Facebook: studio78podcast
Pinterest: Tallook

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