Definitions of PDD-NOS and ASPERGERS

Today is the first day of our spring break, instead of spending the day today running outside, swimming and having fun. I am doing my own "work". The "work" that everyone wonders; what does she do all day? So far it's 10am and I have already made breakfast, kids dressed, dentist appointments made, optometrist appt. made. and now off I go into the barracks of trying to find help for S.

What exactly is PDD-NOS? "Pervasive Developmental Disorder - Not Otherwise Specified, or PDD-NOS, for short, is a condition on the spectrum that has those with it exhibiting some, but not all, of the symptoms associated with classic autism. That can include difficulty socializing with others, repetitive behaviors, and heightened sensitivities to certain stimuli. " by Autisim speaks

The reason that S got diagnosed with PDD-NOS was because she was five years old when she first received this diagnosis now that she is six she is due to be re-evaluated. Children's Hospital does not like to jump into labeling a kid with Asperger's and most Aspergerians don't start showing signs until six. This is because it's a social and behavioral issue not academic. What is Asperger's? "Asperger's syndrome is a developmental disorder that affects a person's ability to socialize and communicate effectively with others. Children with Asperger's syndrome typically exhibit social awkwardness and an all-absorbing interest in specific topics.

Doctors group Asperger's syndrome with other conditions that are called autistic spectrum disorders or pervasive developmental disorders. These disorders all involve problems with social skills and communication. Asperger's syndrome is generally thought to be at the milder end of this spectrum.While there's no cure for Asperger's syndrome, if your child has the condition treatment can help him or her learn how to interact more successfully in social situations." by mayo clinic

Now that S is six, she has grown and changed. Some things have approved whereas others don't seem to be clicking - trying to explain feelings, interact with strangers, sharing, words, fits. etc.... these are the social/behavioral things that make me fight for her.... The only thing is it feels like no one will help her.

It cost a lot of money for Children's to re-examine her because they do not take Medi-cal after six in this department and she is not severe enough for San Diego Regional Center. S will prosper in her life with early intervention. It's just about finding the right way to teach her things, what can work for one issue may not work for another. As a mother and advocate I spend a lot of time researching this and doing it on my own. We've come so far, there is still more to do and this is way I need to find out exactly what it is to keep going. If I hear "There is something not right, it mystifies me... " from one more doctor - AGHHH!!!

Oh and we did make it outside for baseball, playdate, biking, and board games =) I am learning to not let this take my day over completely and focus on having good times in the moments that we have daily!