So... Is it Autism or a Delay?

"I am different. Not less." - Dr. Temple Grandin

I recently listened in on a webinar that was given to state employees and families in a program that helps kids with delays.

Roman and I soon after he started working with the free state program.

My son has been a part of this program, for a year-and-a-half. It's free, through the state. We've had numerous speech therapy sessions, and they do seem to help. Although, at times they are challenging because they're virtual rather than in person. But that's another blog for another day.

For the hour-long webinar I listened to Dr. Jessica Foster, the director for Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics, The Family Venner Endowed Chair in Autism, and Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrician.

A screenshot from Akron Children's Hospital's website. This is to help put a face to the name.

What Struck Me...

While listening to her speak, she mentioned autism and how some of the delays specialists are now seeing because of the pandemic can look like or be similar to the delays seen in kids diagnosed with ASD.

She cautioned specialists to take a good look at the delays, and make sure what they're seeing is actually signs or signals for Autism.

I think for me, when hearing that, I found hope. I still teeter on the idea of Roman possibly having Autism. As I've said before, there are habits he has that make me think... hmmm maybe. Then he does something and I think 'oh absolutely not.'

So What Now?

I requested an interview with Dr. Foster, and I did hear back from the media friends at Akron Children's. They will provide me, and other media outlets with an interview on this topic in the coming weeks.

I'm hoping then I can give you all a better idea of the research being done right now, and what we can all expect in the future. Stay tuned.

Connect with me!

Please, feel free to reach out to me on social or email. I would love to hear your stories, share your stories on this platform, but also do the research and ask experts what we can do to give our kids the best future possible.