New here

[Mom2Austin2005]

I am 26 yrs old with a 19 month old that was diagnosed with Autism yesterday by the doctor. I suspected that he is autistic since he was 20 days old.

I joined this forum because I want to talk with other parents of autistic kids and get their advice and etc.

I so desperately want any advice,pointers,etc....
I would also like to know what I can expect and what the future holds for my child.

[AutMom]

Hello there! Who knows what the future will hold? Hopefully he will grow up happy and healthy! We've had ups and downs all along the way. Lot's of learning too.
Its amazing you knew so soon.

[Bethintx]

There is more being done for our special children every day! When he turns three, he's eligible for early childohood education in the US. Also check with your local Mental Health Mental Retardation (MHMR). They should be able to give you resources for those therapies for free. Early Childhood Intervention came to our house twice a week and worked with Ryan.

It doesn't hurt to ask!

Bethintx

[sharon]

Welcome. It's interesting that you sensed that your baby might have issues so early on.

When my daughter was a few weeks old, I remember trying to engage her, she wouldn't look at me. I tried to tell myself that she was speaking with the angels or perhaps the goddess. I was scared. and deep in my soul, I was terrified. My daughter is twenty three now. She does not have Autism but I remember that day as if it were yesterday.

But about fifty of my other little darlings do. I have worked with children and families with a diagnosis of Autism for many years. You are entitled to Early Intervention Services based on your little one's diagnosis. Do you have them now? If not, see the post above. You can also get information on services through your health care provider. If you get a good team, they can help you tease out his strengths, abilities and particular learning style.

Good luck and if you have specific questions, I'll see if I can come up with anything sensible.

[sharon]

I wanted to add that Early Intervention Services begin at birth. You have a diagnosis, he is eligible now.