Introduction: Know Autism – Know Your Child: with < My Thoughts > by Sara Luker is written as a multidisciplinary approach to providing information about Autism Spectrum Disorder, and what it means to be ‘on the spectrum’. This anthology of current and past findings, as well as guided inquiries. These are often written in ‘prose’, giving readers the opportunity to begin their own autism researching challenge.
Originally, the focus of my information gathering was to assist the growing number of parents who have recently experienced the shock and disbelief of learning their child has ‘autism’. Then, their healthcare provider may advise them that there isn’t an ‘autism-specific’ healthcare plan available for them. And, that there are no actual set life expectations trajectories to follow.
Understanding their sense of frustration, it was important for me to include a special anthology of personal stories; where the ‘voices of experiences’ could be heard. As a parent of an adult child with autism, as an educator, and a ‘forever student’, < My Thoughts > are offered throughout this collection of autism sources.
In addition to the ‘prose’ and < My Thoughts >, there are ‘referenced’ excerpts from peer-reviewed material with source references, images, appendices, and more ‘true-life’ stories.
Time is of the essence, yet it takes time to ‘know your child and to know autism. My intent is to provide a source, where all those wishing to understand more about the mysteries of autism spectrum disorder, may come to learn, refresh, and renew. A comprehensive view of autism is available to all parents, healthcare professionals, therapists, social workers, caregivers, academic scholars, and all people worldwide who are interested in autism.
PREFACE, DISCLAIMER, & BOOK INDEX ~
Know Autism – Know Your Child, with My Thoughts by Sara Luker; 2024
PREFACE
Welcome, please let this material help you begin your own ‘personal journey' into the world of Autism. As a reader, parent, clinician, therapist, and/or nursing student, ‘do the work’, join in the ‘search’. This material reflects my 30-year journey which ended abruptly with the sudden death of my husband who was Sonny’s devoted father and caregiver. Then, three months later, as the result of grief, and a Grand Mal seizure, 37-year-old Sonny went to join his father. Forever together again, as their spirits soar, these noble souls may now know the secrets of the Universe.
For the rest of us, there is so much to learn about the mystery of the autism brain, with its complex neuroanatomy. What we do know, is that autism has a developmental spectrum; it is a disorder with ‘no’ apparent cure. The ‘hope’ lies in the current recommendations for ‘Early Intervention.’
< My Thoughts > “…‘Early Intervention.’”
Be aware that professionals say the term ‘Early Intervention’ itself may be a misnomer; as many ‘interventions’ and suggestions about products/services, and/or treatments mistakenly may advocate unfounded ‘cures’, or ‘long-term’ positive effects. Whether an infant, a developing child, or an adult, 'Early Diagnosis' is extremely important.
Some misunderstanding may come from the suggestion that autistic brain is often sending ‘mixed messages’; which can confuse perception of the environment, leading to ‘sensory’ issues. Also, along with being on the autism spectrum, the individual may have ‘co-morbid’ issues; such as anxiety, depression, and/or a seizure disorder which accompanies and complicates their autism symptoms/behavior.
According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders – Fifth Edition (DSM-5); published in 2013 by the American Psychiatric Association (APA), there are ‘Levels’ of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD); as follows:
· Level 1: Requires Support ~ Level 1 ASD is the mildest, or the most "high-functioning," form of autism. Individual communicates, but has trouble engaging in back-and-forth conversation. They may try to make friends, but not very successfully.
· Level 2: Requires Substantial Support ~ People with ASD Level 2 will have more obvious problems with verbal and social communication than those diagnosed with Level 1.
· Level 3: Requires Very Substantial Support ~ Level 3 is the most severe form of autism. Persons in this category will have many of the same behaviors as those with Levels 1 and 2, but to a more extreme degree.
Using the DSM-5 and other indicators, certain spectrum subsets and behavior symptoms can be identified, tested, diagnosed and treated by qualified professionals.
Reading, researching and receiving a diagnosis may be how your journey begins. Only you will know your individual’s trajectory and scope. Try to focus on helping your person with autism to be the best that s/he can be. Help them develop a sense of being valued; a sense of belonging.
Start where they are at the moment, as each person and each family lives in their own separate world of autism. And then, we only are allowed a glimpse of their individual world of shifting, symptomatic behaviors.
Give your special person an opportunity to be as awesome and independent as their abilities, strengths, differences, and ‘superpowers’ will let them be. Stay as flexible as possible, because autism seems to be made up of an evolving spectrum. Because, just when you think you have worked out all its dimensions, the autism trajectory may change.
Know too, that autism is a profitable ‘business’ with services and long-term-programs to be sold. Plus, insurance companies are encouraged to provide surety and reimbursement for those services/programs fortunate enough to receive healthcare recommendations.
Regards,
Sara Luker
DISCLAIMER
This material details the author’s personal study, research, opinions, and experiences concerning Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and related topics. As Sonny’s mom, as an educator with a 2011 Master’s Degree in Special Education the author’s accounts about products, services, treatments, and interventions are informational and educational only. The author does not represent that these products, services, treatments, and interventions can ‘cure’, or even have a ‘long-term’ positive effect on symptoms/behaviors.
Autism ‘intervention’, as with the phrase ‘Early Detection / Early Intervention’, may simply mean to attempt an ‘action’; or an attempt to ‘change a course’ or ‘trajectory’ of the person’s autism. Words such as, ‘intervention’, ‘treatment’, ‘therapy’, or ‘program’ often erroneously imply ‘cure’, or a seemingly ‘long-term’ positive effect. My intention here is NOT to ‘imply’, only to offer interpretations of my knowledge and experiences.
All information is presented without intent or suggestion of status or effectiveness. And, any ‘behavior change’ which may result in this collection of studies and personal stories; seemingly depends on the ‘positive’ participation of the child, the parent, and/or the assigned therapist/ interventionist/ clinician. Please also know, as you critically read, that ‘older’ studies are often brought forward in/as ‘newer’ studies. Thus, leaving it to each reader to discern the value of the ‘old/new’ information.
The content of this material does not represent medical advice, nor substitute for consultation with a licensed healthcare professional. Neither does it constitute medical advice in any way. Nothing in this material is intended to diagnose, treat, imply ‘cure’, or prevent any condition, disorder, disability, or disease. All of the material offered here is for possible educational and informational purposes, only. Any use of this material implies your acceptance of this disclaimer.
Originally, the focus of my information gathering was to assist the growing number of parents who have recently experienced the shock and disbelief of learning their child has ‘autism’. Then, their healthcare provider may advise them that there isn’t an ‘autism-specific’ healthcare plan available for them. And, that there are no actual set life expectations trajectories to follow.
Understanding their sense of frustration, it was important for me to include a special anthology of personal stories; where the ‘voices of experiences’ could be heard. As a parent of an adult child with autism, as an educator, and a ‘forever student’, < My Thoughts > are offered throughout this collection of autism sources.
In addition to the ‘prose’ and < My Thoughts >, there are ‘referenced’ excerpts from peer-reviewed material with source references, images, appendices, and more ‘true-life’ stories.
Time is of the essence, yet it takes time to ‘know your child and to know autism. My intent is to provide a source, where all those wishing to understand more about the mysteries of autism spectrum disorder, may come to learn, refresh, and renew. A comprehensive view of autism is available to all parents, healthcare professionals, therapists, social workers, caregivers, academic scholars, and all people worldwide who are interested in autism.
PREFACE, DISCLAIMER, & BOOK INDEX ~
Know Autism – Know Your Child, with My Thoughts by Sara Luker; 2024
PREFACE
Welcome, please let this material help you begin your own ‘personal journey' into the world of Autism. As a reader, parent, clinician, therapist, and/or nursing student, ‘do the work’, join in the ‘search’. This material reflects my 30-year journey which ended abruptly with the sudden death of my husband who was Sonny’s devoted father and caregiver. Then, three months later, as the result of grief, and a Grand Mal seizure, 37-year-old Sonny went to join his father. Forever together again, as their spirits soar, these noble souls may now know the secrets of the Universe.
For the rest of us, there is so much to learn about the mystery of the autism brain, with its complex neuroanatomy. What we do know, is that autism has a developmental spectrum; it is a disorder with ‘no’ apparent cure. The ‘hope’ lies in the current recommendations for ‘Early Intervention.’
< My Thoughts > “…‘Early Intervention.’”
Be aware that professionals say the term ‘Early Intervention’ itself may be a misnomer; as many ‘interventions’ and suggestions about products/services, and/or treatments mistakenly may advocate unfounded ‘cures’, or ‘long-term’ positive effects. Whether an infant, a developing child, or an adult, 'Early Diagnosis' is extremely important.
Some misunderstanding may come from the suggestion that autistic brain is often sending ‘mixed messages’; which can confuse perception of the environment, leading to ‘sensory’ issues. Also, along with being on the autism spectrum, the individual may have ‘co-morbid’ issues; such as anxiety, depression, and/or a seizure disorder which accompanies and complicates their autism symptoms/behavior.
According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders – Fifth Edition (DSM-5); published in 2013 by the American Psychiatric Association (APA), there are ‘Levels’ of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD); as follows:
· Level 1: Requires Support ~ Level 1 ASD is the mildest, or the most "high-functioning," form of autism. Individual communicates, but has trouble engaging in back-and-forth conversation. They may try to make friends, but not very successfully.
· Level 2: Requires Substantial Support ~ People with ASD Level 2 will have more obvious problems with verbal and social communication than those diagnosed with Level 1.
· Level 3: Requires Very Substantial Support ~ Level 3 is the most severe form of autism. Persons in this category will have many of the same behaviors as those with Levels 1 and 2, but to a more extreme degree.
Using the DSM-5 and other indicators, certain spectrum subsets and behavior symptoms can be identified, tested, diagnosed and treated by qualified professionals.
Reading, researching and receiving a diagnosis may be how your journey begins. Only you will know your individual’s trajectory and scope. Try to focus on helping your person with autism to be the best that s/he can be. Help them develop a sense of being valued; a sense of belonging.
Start where they are at the moment, as each person and each family lives in their own separate world of autism. And then, we only are allowed a glimpse of their individual world of shifting, symptomatic behaviors.
Give your special person an opportunity to be as awesome and independent as their abilities, strengths, differences, and ‘superpowers’ will let them be. Stay as flexible as possible, because autism seems to be made up of an evolving spectrum. Because, just when you think you have worked out all its dimensions, the autism trajectory may change.
Know too, that autism is a profitable ‘business’ with services and long-term-programs to be sold. Plus, insurance companies are encouraged to provide surety and reimbursement for those services/programs fortunate enough to receive healthcare recommendations.
Regards,
Sara Luker
DISCLAIMER
This material details the author’s personal study, research, opinions, and experiences concerning Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and related topics. As Sonny’s mom, as an educator with a 2011 Master’s Degree in Special Education the author’s accounts about products, services, treatments, and interventions are informational and educational only. The author does not represent that these products, services, treatments, and interventions can ‘cure’, or even have a ‘long-term’ positive effect on symptoms/behaviors.
Autism ‘intervention’, as with the phrase ‘Early Detection / Early Intervention’, may simply mean to attempt an ‘action’; or an attempt to ‘change a course’ or ‘trajectory’ of the person’s autism. Words such as, ‘intervention’, ‘treatment’, ‘therapy’, or ‘program’ often erroneously imply ‘cure’, or a seemingly ‘long-term’ positive effect. My intention here is NOT to ‘imply’, only to offer interpretations of my knowledge and experiences.
All information is presented without intent or suggestion of status or effectiveness. And, any ‘behavior change’ which may result in this collection of studies and personal stories; seemingly depends on the ‘positive’ participation of the child, the parent, and/or the assigned therapist/ interventionist/ clinician. Please also know, as you critically read, that ‘older’ studies are often brought forward in/as ‘newer’ studies. Thus, leaving it to each reader to discern the value of the ‘old/new’ information.
The content of this material does not represent medical advice, nor substitute for consultation with a licensed healthcare professional. Neither does it constitute medical advice in any way. Nothing in this material is intended to diagnose, treat, imply ‘cure’, or prevent any condition, disorder, disability, or disease. All of the material offered here is for possible educational and informational purposes, only. Any use of this material implies your acceptance of this disclaimer.