Dr. Robert Melillo, creator and co-founder of the Brain Balance Program® and author of Reconnected Kids, recently contributed to an article at Sheknows.com called Understanding Asperger’s. The article offers basic info on distinguishing more severe forms of Autism from Asperger’s Syndrome and offers some tips for parents who suspect their child may be affected. Enjoy an excerpt from the article below or click here to read it in full:
“Autism is a broad spectrum of related disorders and Asperger’s is considered an autism-spectrum disorder. Autism is a developmental disorder that affects communication and social skills and usually presents with an IQ below 70.
Asperger’s is related, but communication and language skills are not affected and can in fact exceed peers by several grade levels. However, children with Asperger’s still have some inappropriate or “delayed” social skills.
Schools are mandated to customize your child’s education to help your child succeed when a diagnosis is made and you do not have to move your child to a new school unless you want to. Many small changes can be made to aid in the success of your child and help control negative behaviors.
These accommodations might include activity breaks, a sensory diet if they have sensory integration issues, visual aids for class work and daily schedules, small group (rather than large group) work, an individual aide to assist in behavioral outbursts and sitting near the teacher to be close to materials.
Dr. Melillo’s program helps parents develop skills to meet the needs of their child. Reconnected Kids’ focus is to turn “on” the genes stuck in the “off” mode through cognitive, physical and dietary changes. Treatment options include social skills training, cognitive behavioral therapy, occupational and physical therapy, and speech and language therapy.
Six tips to remember
- Watch for milestones
- Seek professional help for diagnosis
- Educate yourself and family members
- Collaborate with teachers
- Connect with support groups
- Attend programs focused on family approach”
Do you suspect your child has Asperger’s Syndrome? Want to know more about Dr. Robert Melillo and the Brain Balance approach? Brain Balance Achievement Centers are after-school learning facilities that help children with learning and behavioral disorders reach their potential. After a comprehensive assessment, the Brain Balance team custom designs cognitive, physical, and sensory activity plans to establish proper neural connections and improve rhythm and timing. Contact us today!
