Trying To Get ABA Therapy For Autism Teaching

I met with my son’s case manager. She is still working on getting my son a communication device. Apparently, his former case manage left things a mess. She quit and his new one is trying to fix everything. His new case manager isn’t familiar with communication devices or Boardmaker.

A couple years ago, we were able to get a touch screen and Boardmaker. His CAP services/Medicaid paid for them. The company that is responsible for approving the communication device we are trying to get, asked her why does he need it when he just got a communication device. I explained to her that he didn’t get a communication device. He received software and a touch screen that can be used on the computer. He needs a communication device that he can take anywhere.

She understood after I explained. Then I brought up ABA. I firmly believe that my son would benefit from ABA therapy. I’ve tried and tried to get it, but either there were no providers in the area or insurance wouldn’t pay. I asked her to check into it. There are providers in the area, but I don’t know if CAP or my son’s insurance will pay for it. If my son was 3 years old, I would be able to get ABA for him with no problem. Only, he’s not. He’s 11. When he was 3, he wasn’t even diagnosed ASD. He was diagnosed with “Global Delays.” Globally delayed is all we heard, until he was 5 years old. That was when he was diagnosed with Autism. Of course, the school had to be convinced. That took a lot of doing.

From everything I have read, ABA can benefit all ages. It is believed that the younger the child, the more ABA can benefit him. That is great, but please don’t forget about my son, just because he isn’t the age you think he should be to receive ABA therapy. He is still learning. His OT and I were working with him on throwing a ball the other day. His biggest problem with that is letting go of the ball. We actually got him to do that. We were so proud of him.

His case manager said she will call me Friday and let me know what she found out. I hope it’s good news and not bad. I really think he needs this.

A Label Doesn't Change The Child

Jean Myles, www.MommyToTwoBoys.blogspot.com, shares her story with me and my readers via an email interview. Thank you, Jean.

1. When was your three year old diagnosed?


Jaylen was diagnosed at 18 months.


2. Receiving a diagnosis at such a young age is great. Are you receiving Early Intervention services?


At 18 months Jaylen was getting a specialist to the house once a week and we quickly realized it wasn't enough. So he began ABA - DTT five days a week for an hour and a half. Then when he turned 3 he started an integrated PreK program run by special ed certified teachers where he also receives Speech, OT, and PT.


3. If so, can you explain what they are to my readers?


Oops, just did that above :)


4. Would you mind telling my readers a little bit about your child?


Jaylen was completely non verbal until 2, but now has a vast vocabulary, almost above age level. He still has some issues answering questions, and has instant and delayed echolalia at times.

He is very hyperactive, especially when there is a change in routine or he is overstimulated. He used to have very little eye contact and rarely responded to his name, but now does both more often than not.

Jaylen has emotional problems, mostly anxiety and cries often when frustrated or not sure of something. He also has very little empathy and can not "read" people. He used to have up to ten 30 minute or longer tantrums per day, but know has only 1 or 2 a week.

Sensory issues have become worse over time. He likes to squeeze into tight places, use a weighted blanket, and carry heavy objects.

He has difficulty playing with toys appropriately and to this point has no idea how to interact with other children other than to chase them and repeat what they say. However, he is getting good at turn taking games at home.

Jaylen is very bright, some of his teachers have even mentioned the term savant to me. Numbers, shapes, and letters are his favorite thing and he can easily become consumed in any activity involving them.


5. What has been the biggest help for you in obtaining information about autism, therapies and treatments?


The biggest help for us was his first placement. His coordinator, teachers, and therapists at his ABA school were just amazing. They were so involved in Jaylen's development. Since leaving that placement I have found several websites and mom's groups online that really help. A few books have also been helpful in reading about treatments and tips.


6. What has been your family's reaction to your child being diagnosed with autism?


The first day we were told something wrong was very tough to hear. Being a former teacher though, my husband and I both knew something wasn't right. But hearing it from someone else was hard to handle. The label didn't change him though. He is still the same kid, our same little boy, just now we know what is wrong and work hard to help him the best we can.