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Expert Q&A

	By Dr. Bunni Tobias Kid Detective Psychologist

My 5-year-old son was diagnosed with mild/moderate autism and ADD. I cannot control him and think he should be hospitalized but his doctor refuses. They just keep increasing his medication dosage. What should I do?

First, hospitalization is not appropriate, and I would want to be absolutely sure that the physician you are using is highly skilled in dealing with children with autism.

I have seen many children medicated without addressing the developmental issues that are involved in this disorder and the attention problems that may be related to it. If your child has been labeled "autistic" I would contact parent groups online or in your community and check out Web sites to find out what services are available for specific behavior interventions by organizations funded for these very cherished children. You will also want to look at diet and read the research on casein-free/gluten-free diets, allergies and other related metabolic issues.

VERY important is a thorough assessment by an occupational therapist specially certified in sensory integration. Your school district can also provide special services and modifications since he has been given a "label." This also includes assessment and behavior management.

Remember, your child is not a label – he's a person. Your job is an even bigger challenge, and your need for skills is greater than many other parents. Again, parents of children with autism are a great source of encouragement and information. There are several Web sites that target all of the specifics I mentioned.

With a 700-percent increase in autism since, I believe, 1997, the needs of parents are enormous and resources should be closely monitored. Be sure to get testimonials from people who have used services if you have a "gut feeling" about any of them. I can't stress enough the role of nutrition, allergy and sensitivity in these diagnoses as well as consistent and predictable behavior management.

If I can be of further services, contact me by e-mail at drbunni@drbunni.com."

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