Is there a cure for Autism? There is no known cure for autism spectrum disorder. Some medicines can help with related symptoms.
What are the best treatment options? According to Autism Speaks there are behavioral treatments and interventions.
Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA)
Early Start Denver Model (ESDM)
Pivotal Response Treatment (PRT)
Relationship Development Intervention (RDI)
The interventions that Landon used was Occupational, Physical and Speech Therapy. I also learned how to use the TEACCH approach with Landon which consisted of communicating with Picture Exchange System Cards (I will discuss these cards in another blog post).
Speech Therapy-Emily Laird would communicate with spoken and sign language. Emily would show, say and how to use an object. Landon would learn what the object is but never remember it. Landon also had a fascination with numbers so she used it to her advantage.
Physical Therapy-Landon could not tolerate getting his hair cut. He would scream until he turned blue and passed out. Landon’s Physical Therapy consisted of Stephanie cutting Landon’s hair during Speech Therapy. In the beginning, this was the only way we could cut his hair. Stephanie would desensitized his head by running her fingers along his scalp while he was totally distracted with his Speech Therapy. Therapy.
As time went on, Les and I purchased an electric shaver. We would desensitize his head before we began and gave breaks as needed. It was difficult for many years, but eventually he got use to it. Now, we mention to Landon that he needs his hair cut but we give him control of what day and time he wants to have his hair cut.
Giving many opportunities for a special needs individual to be able to make a choice makes almost everything go smoothly.
