| Autism Therapies - Bright Tots - Information on child development - Autism information |
|
| Autism Therapies |
There are many questions about the initial cause of autism which is yet to be determined. Since there is no root cause,
then there is no cure for autism. There are, however, several intervention options available (pharmaceutical and
biomedical, therapeutic, and educational) that can be, to varying degrees, controversial. It is widely acknowledge by
professionals that some form of intensive educational interventions should be at basis of any treatment program,
regardless of any choice to use, therapies options are highly beneficial.
An early, intensive, appropriate treatment program will significantly improve the outlook for most young children with
autism. Most therapies will build on the interests of the child in an exceptionally structured schedule of helpful activities.
Treatment is most successful when focused toward the child's particular needs. An experienced specialist or team
should design the individualized program. A variety of effective therapies are available, including applied behavior
analysis (ABA), speech-language therapy, medications, occupational therapy, and physical therapy, and a behavioral
consultation. Sensory integration and vision therapy are also common, but there is little research supporting their
effectiveness. The best treatment plan may use a combination of techniques.
Once a diagnosis is concluded it will be important to begin to identify needed services and resources. Each child with
ASD is different and each family will have different needs. There is no single best treatment package for all children
with ASD. One aspect most professionals agree on is that early intervention is important; another is that most
individuals with ASD respond well to highly structured, specialized programs. Before you make decisions on your
child's treatment, you will want to gather information about the various options available. Learn as much as you can,
look at all the options, and make your decision on your child's treatment based on your child's needs. You may want to
visit public schools in your area to see the programs they offer special needs children.
Floor Time
Dr. Stanley Greenspan is the most well known supporter of this intervention strategy. Floor Time is an integrated model
that is centered on the child and involves sensory and motor planning play, and focuses on emotional development
rather than cognitive or behavioral development. There is not much research to support its sole use, though many
programs include its principles in combination with others, especially with younger children.
This therapeutic approach seeks to improve developmental skills through analysis and intervention in six areas of
functioning.
The first area has to do with a child's ability to manage his or her attention and behavior while being presented with a
full range of sensations.
The second area involves the child's ability to maintain quality and stability of engagement in relationships.
Third is a child's ability to enter into two-way, purposeful exchange. At its most basic level, this program involves
helping the child open and close circles of communication.
The fourth area involves stringing together many circles of communication into larger patterns, while the fifth level
deals with the child's ability to create mental representations or emotional symbols through engagement in pretend play
and emotional intention.
Finally, the last level works on the ability to build bridges or make connections between different internal
representations or emotional ideas (e. g., "I am mad because you are mean.”) This capacity is a foundation of higher-
level thinking, problem solving and such abilities as separating reality from fantasy, modifying impulses and mood, and
learning how to concentrate and plan, which are extremely important skills needed for independence.
Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS)
PECS- Picture Exchange Communication System is used mostly with children who have limited or no speech. PECS is
a communication training system developed for autistic students ages 2 through 21 years, although it can be used if
needed throughout the remainder of the lifespan. Its basis is applied behavior analysis and discrete trial teaching. This is
an approach that is usually used in combination with others.
Individuals using PECS are required to give a picture of a preferred item to a communicative partner in exchange for
the item. The initial communicative behavior aim is focused on requesting. In the request, preferred items are presented
as achievements for the response. This training is designed to take place in a social context. Teaching students to
request is a useful skill, and often facilitates the teaching of other communicative intents.
Two therapists are initially required so that one sits behind the child and physically prompts him/her to give a picture in
exchange for the item. Physical prompts are quickly faded in order to ensure independent communication. Once the
request with pictures is firmly established, the child is then encouraged to verbalize the request based upon the premise
that when children learn that they can get their needs met by communicating them to the people around them (“I want
juice” = getting juice) they will learn to communicate more quickly and effectively.
Pictures are used in addition to spoken language so the children can exchange pictures to indicate their needs and
wants. This method has shown some success because of the use of visuals and because the communication is
immediately reinforced (rewarded) with the requested item.
Social Stories
All individuals with autistic spectrum disorders have deficits in social cognition, or the ability to think in ways necessary
for appropriate social interaction. This deficit can be addressed by a technique developed by educator Carol Gray,
which helps individuals with autism "read" and understand social situations.
Referred to as "Social Stories," this technique presents appropriate social behaviors in the form of a story. These stories
can be read by a teacher or parent, or even by the individual with ASD. Typically, the author introduces the story by
reading it twice with the person. If able, the person with ASD then reads it once a day independently. For a person who
cannot read, the author may record the story on an audiotape with cues for the person to turn the page as he/she 'reads'
along. Once the individual successfully accomplishes the skills or appropriately responds in the social situation
description, use of the story can be decreased. This can be done by reducing the number of times the story is read each
week or by only reviewing the story once a month or as necessary.
Behavioral Therapy
Behavioral training teaches people of all ages with autism how to communicate appropriately. This type of training can
reduce behavior problems and improve adaptation skills. Both behavioral training and behavioral management use
positive reinforcement to improve behavior. They also use social skills training to improve communication. The specific
program should be chosen according to the child's needs.
High-functioning autistic children may be enrolled in mainstream classrooms and child care facilities watching the
behavior of other typically developing children can provide examples for autistic children to follow. However, some
children are over stimulated in a regular classroom and work best in smaller, more structured environments.
Consistent use of these behavioral interventions produces the best results. The child's functional abilities, behavior, and
daily environment should be thoroughly assessed before behavioral training and management begins. Parents, family
members, teachers, and caregivers of the autistic child should all be trained in these techniques. Some treatment
approaches of behavioral therapy include: Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) and TEACCH (Treatment and Education of
Autistic and Related Communication Handicapped Children).
Music Therapy
Many individuals with autism have been treated with music therapy with varying degrees of success. This therapy uses
music as a facilitating agent to teach a variety of skills including academic/cognitive skills, communication skills, and
social skills. Specially trained music therapists include activities such as singing, moving to music and playing
instruments in their sessions.
The idea behind music therapy is that music has been shown to affect a different part of the brain than verbal
communication does. So, if awareness can get into the brain through a different pathway that may be functioning more
effectively than the impaired communication influence, then the student can learn skills through this different channel.
Additionally, music is by nature is very structured; thus, it often provides the best environment for learning. The sound
stimulus can also aid in sensory integration as well as aid in socialization. Finally, a music therapy program can be easily
applied in a private as well as a public school setting.
Auditory Integration Training (AIT)
This therapy is intended to correct or improve auditory processing problems that may occur if the auditory messages
received by the brain are distorted. It is also used for hypersensitivity to sound. Often regarded as a controversial
therapy, AIT involves listening to vocal music through headphones connected to a device that electronically transforms
the sounds. Training is provided for 30 minutes, typically twice a day for 10 consecutive days. Before receiving the
AIT, the individual is given an audiogram to determine the hearing ability for various sound frequencies. After this, the
individual listens to music through a special machine through the earphones.
Although no scientific research exists to support this intervention, some parents feel it has made significant changes for
their child. Others, however, have noted few if any differences after the therapy. Supposedly, AIT reduces hearing
hypersensitivity for some people as well as providing intense stimulation for the brain. More research to support use of
this method is needed. It is believed that such sensitivity and sound distortion can lead to learning and behavior
problems.
The Son-Rise Program
Son-Rise is a treatment program for autism, autism spectrum disorders, PDD and other disabilities related to
communication and reciprocity. The program teaches a specific and extensive method of treatment and education
designed to help families and caregivers enable their children to dramatically improve in all areas of learning,
development, communication and skill acquisition. It offers educational techniques, strategies and principles for
designing, implementing and maintaining a stimulating, high-energy, one-on-one, home-based, child-centered program.
The therapy is an educational treatment which harmonizes and includes joining children instead of going against them.
The program places parents as key teachers, therapists and directors of their own programs and utilizes the home as
the most nurturing environment in which to help their children.
The Son-Rise belief is that by joining in a child's repetitive and ritualistic behaviors supplies the key to unlocking the
mystery of these behaviors and facilitates eye contact, social development and the inclusion of others in play. Utilizing a
child's own motivation advances learning and builds the foundation for education and skill acquisition. Teaching through
interactive play results in effective and meaningful socialization and communication. Placing the parent as the child's
most important and lasting resource provides a consistent and compelling focus for training, education and inspiration.
Creating a safe, distraction-free work/play area facilitates the optimal environment for learning and growth is basically
the approach.
Dolphin Assisted Therapy
Dolphin Assisted Therapy (D.A.T.) is a new modern medicine that some people categorize as part of the Animal
therapy. This field of medicine although relatively new, has shown results in patients who try it. Doctors at the dolphin
therapy center claim they have helped more than 1,000 children overcome learning disorders, and say that represents a
97 percent success rate. Dolphins and children working together have built a hypothetical base, and programs designed
for children suffering from a range of disorders, including autism and A.D.D, ages 2-13 has made it a realization.
The student with special needs is taken to the pool and is encouraged to swim with the dolphin for thirty minutes. The
individual stays in close contact with the dolphin, cuddles and kisses the dolphin; the dolphin sings to the student and
helps him/her swim, carrying the individual who holds on to its fins. A carefree relationship between the student and the
dolphin is experienced. Swimming with dolphins for half an hour enhances the child’s awareness and curiosity to the
outside world. As a result, acceleration is observed in the learning process of children who are tutored by special
instructors, who take speech lessons and who are treated with physical therapy.
Some medical professionals admit that dolphins can have a therapeutic effect on people suffering from depression and
learning difficulties. But doctors are baffled as to how the process works. One theory is that dolphins use their unique
scanning system skill to identify neurological disorders in people, and then help them relax and open up to learning and
healing. But many scientists argue that the children just like the feel of the dolphins, and it is no more than a recreational
pastime. And they note that there is not a conclusive study on dolphin therapy to prove it really works.
Biomedical Treatments
Among the available options are biomedical treatments (interventions that involve activity of bodily process) that some
families feel have been helpful to their children with autism spectrum disorders. Some of these choices have some
documentation as to their effectiveness on specific symptoms. Certain medications, for example, have been proven to
be helpful in reducing difficult symptoms such as anxiety or obsessive/compulsive behaviors.
There’s others like dietary interventions, which have little proven evidence, but have been supported by families who
say the improvements in their children’s abilities or behavior are noticeable. There are also many other choices available;
among them are some that are dangerous, and have little support from anyone other than the individuals who profit
from them. We advise families to seek extensive information and talk to many other families who have tried a
biomedical intervention before trying this treatment. You should also research and verify basis of any unusual
treatments before you invest.
Caution: Many of these listed can be expensive, and are not generally covered by insurance, though you may wish to check with
your pediatrician for advice on filing insurance claims.
Secretin Hormone Therapy
This was a popular concocted treatment in recent years due to a news report that praised the effectiveness. Secretin is
actually a natural hormone that was used in diagnostic tests for intestinal ailments. . The safety and efficacy of secretin
has been approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for single dose use in diagnosing gastrointestinal
problems such as impaired pancreatic function or gastric problems such as ulcers in adults.
At the present time, there is no agreed upon procedure to determine which children may potentially benefit from the use
of this drug. Physicians are advised that, like all drugs, there is the possibility of adverse events that may be associated
with individual allergies or susceptibilities. An initial small test dose is recommended as a precaution against allergic
reactions and appropriate measures for the treatment of acute hypersensitivity reactions should be administered.
Although more than 100 children have received secretin injections for the treatment of autism, only one study on its use
in three children has been published at this time. The study discuss possible mechanisms of action in the relation of "gut-
brain" theories of autism that propose a link between the gastrointestinal disorders observed in many children with
autism and their brain impairment. Since that time, many studies have been done with little evidence of its effectiveness.
Dietary Interventions/Megavitamins
Several researchers have presumed that diet, food allergies or intolerance, or yeast may contribute to or even cause
autism, although at the current time no research exists to prove or disprove this theory. Since researchers are still
actively exploring much of this area, reliable information concerning this possible intervention is sometimes difficult to
find.
Some researchers have believe that sugar, wheat, milk and some additives may be the cause of autistic-like behaviors in
individuals. Others believe that a lack of essential fatty acids in the diet or an overgrowth of yeast (Candida) is the
culprit. Some dietary interventions such as antifungal medications, herbal treatments, gluten and casein-free diets (both
sources of protein), and elimination of processed foods and food additives have gained popularity. Additionally, limited
research exists regarding the use of mega doses of Vitamin B6 and Magnesium to treat autism. The goal of this therapy
is to normalize body metabolism and thus improve behavior.
Vitamin Therapy
There is a theory that vitamin deficiencies, probably due to related digestive and environmental factors, can cause
behavioral and learning problems. Vitamin B6 has been shown to normalize brain waves and urine chemistry as well as
reduce the effects of allergic reactions by strengthening the immune system.
DMG (Dimethylglycine, a non-toxic metabolite)
DMG is available in many health food stores. It is legally classified as a food. Parents have reported positive benefits in
behavior. For those who have noted a difference, most have noticed this within two weeks of its usage. There have
been legal battles over its use, so it is no longer sold as a vitamin, but rather as a food product.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C is suggested as a vitamin for persons with ASD due to its improvement in the depressive, manic, and
paranoid symptom complexes, together with an improvement in personality functioning. It has not been researched as a
treatment for ASD, but families report improvement in some children. Vitamin C is crucial to brain function, which may
relate to noted improvements in some persons with ASD.
The use of vitamins has been supported by unscientific reports to improve speech, eye contact, social behavior, and
attention span. However, these interventions must be monitored in order to maintain a healthy level of vitamins in the
body. Certain specific vitamin regimens are felt to be effective by some families.
Nutritional therapy – Each person functions best with different levels of nutrients in the body. If these are not
available in sufficient quantity it can affect performance of metabolism. There may also be toxins present in the system
that can have an affect on levels of nutrients. Nutritional therapy is designed to provide the individual body’s optimum
level of needed nutrients through the use of supplements.
Food allergies/sensitivities – Some specialists in environmental medicine believe that brain function may be affected
by a reaction to a certain food or family of foods, or other environmental substances. Sensitivity to these substances
can result in behavioral, motor, learning or personality dysfunction. Typical allergy tests may not identify these
substance sensitivities. Specialists in environmental medicine use a variety of tests that are different from typical allergy
testing.
Yeast/fungal overgrowth – The thinking behind this theory is that overgrowth of candida yeast may occur when the
intestinal environment is altered by a weakened immune system. This imbalance can, in turn, create dysfunctions in
other areas of the body, including the brain.
‘Leaky gut’ – Related to the yeast/fungal theory, this term describes the belief that toxins produced in the digestive
process pass through barriers in the intestine and enter the bloodstream due to a compromised immune system. These
toxins then affect the rest of the bodily functions that depend on the blood supply, including the brain.
Symptoms of food allergy, yeast infection, and/or leaky gut are associated and often they are treated together.
Treatment usually consists of a diet that eliminates foods that promote yeast growth along with supplements of ‘good’
bacteria and/or anti-fungal agents.
MMR connection
There is a great deal of controversy currently over the possible connection of childhood vaccines and the onset of
autism. While there is no provable evidence of a connection at this time, drug manufacturers have removed the mercury
content in some vaccines. Some researchers have suggested that parents ask about the mercury content of a vaccine
before immunizing, to be sure your child is receiving the newer vaccines. They also say that it might be advisable (at
least until further information is available) to immunize individually rather than with multiple vaccines at one time, and/or
that immunization be delayed until the child is older than the current two-year-old standard. It is, however, still required
that children be immunized before they can be registered for public school, and it is not generally recommended that
children not be immunized at all.
Metal detoxification
There are some who support the research that metals which are known to be toxic (lead, mercury, etc.) are present in
higher quantities in individuals with autism and other developmental disabilities, and that this may be related to their
ability to function. It is not clear whether the reported levels are accurate, or whether it might be a cause of autism or
simply an after effect of some other source. It is also not clear what therapies might be helpful, should it prove to be
related. Chelation or removing metals from the blood is a risky endeavor, and there is currently no firm evidence that
this is effective.
Educational Program
Since children on the autism spectrum are so different from one another, and since there may be more than one cause
for autism, there is a great deal of controversy over what is the ‘best’ educational program. While professionals and
researchers may differ in their support of specific methods, there are certain principles that all agree on. Intervention at
the very earliest opportunity, intensity, and consistency are all supported by professionals regardless of their specific
views. This should be kept in mind when planning for the education of all children with autism spectrum disorders. It is
also important to recognize that each method has some value, and that different children may need different approaches.
then there is no cure for autism. There are, however, several intervention options available (pharmaceutical and
biomedical, therapeutic, and educational) that can be, to varying degrees, controversial. It is widely acknowledge by
professionals that some form of intensive educational interventions should be at basis of any treatment program,
regardless of any choice to use, therapies options are highly beneficial.
An early, intensive, appropriate treatment program will significantly improve the outlook for most young children with
autism. Most therapies will build on the interests of the child in an exceptionally structured schedule of helpful activities.
Treatment is most successful when focused toward the child's particular needs. An experienced specialist or team
should design the individualized program. A variety of effective therapies are available, including applied behavior
analysis (ABA), speech-language therapy, medications, occupational therapy, and physical therapy, and a behavioral
consultation. Sensory integration and vision therapy are also common, but there is little research supporting their
effectiveness. The best treatment plan may use a combination of techniques.
Once a diagnosis is concluded it will be important to begin to identify needed services and resources. Each child with
ASD is different and each family will have different needs. There is no single best treatment package for all children
with ASD. One aspect most professionals agree on is that early intervention is important; another is that most
individuals with ASD respond well to highly structured, specialized programs. Before you make decisions on your
child's treatment, you will want to gather information about the various options available. Learn as much as you can,
look at all the options, and make your decision on your child's treatment based on your child's needs. You may want to
visit public schools in your area to see the programs they offer special needs children.
Floor Time
Dr. Stanley Greenspan is the most well known supporter of this intervention strategy. Floor Time is an integrated model
that is centered on the child and involves sensory and motor planning play, and focuses on emotional development
rather than cognitive or behavioral development. There is not much research to support its sole use, though many
programs include its principles in combination with others, especially with younger children.
This therapeutic approach seeks to improve developmental skills through analysis and intervention in six areas of
functioning.
The first area has to do with a child's ability to manage his or her attention and behavior while being presented with a
full range of sensations.
The second area involves the child's ability to maintain quality and stability of engagement in relationships.
Third is a child's ability to enter into two-way, purposeful exchange. At its most basic level, this program involves
helping the child open and close circles of communication.
The fourth area involves stringing together many circles of communication into larger patterns, while the fifth level
deals with the child's ability to create mental representations or emotional symbols through engagement in pretend play
and emotional intention.
Finally, the last level works on the ability to build bridges or make connections between different internal
representations or emotional ideas (e. g., "I am mad because you are mean.”) This capacity is a foundation of higher-
level thinking, problem solving and such abilities as separating reality from fantasy, modifying impulses and mood, and
learning how to concentrate and plan, which are extremely important skills needed for independence.
Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS)
PECS- Picture Exchange Communication System is used mostly with children who have limited or no speech. PECS is
a communication training system developed for autistic students ages 2 through 21 years, although it can be used if
needed throughout the remainder of the lifespan. Its basis is applied behavior analysis and discrete trial teaching. This is
an approach that is usually used in combination with others.
Individuals using PECS are required to give a picture of a preferred item to a communicative partner in exchange for
the item. The initial communicative behavior aim is focused on requesting. In the request, preferred items are presented
as achievements for the response. This training is designed to take place in a social context. Teaching students to
request is a useful skill, and often facilitates the teaching of other communicative intents.
Two therapists are initially required so that one sits behind the child and physically prompts him/her to give a picture in
exchange for the item. Physical prompts are quickly faded in order to ensure independent communication. Once the
request with pictures is firmly established, the child is then encouraged to verbalize the request based upon the premise
that when children learn that they can get their needs met by communicating them to the people around them (“I want
juice” = getting juice) they will learn to communicate more quickly and effectively.
Pictures are used in addition to spoken language so the children can exchange pictures to indicate their needs and
wants. This method has shown some success because of the use of visuals and because the communication is
immediately reinforced (rewarded) with the requested item.
Social Stories
All individuals with autistic spectrum disorders have deficits in social cognition, or the ability to think in ways necessary
for appropriate social interaction. This deficit can be addressed by a technique developed by educator Carol Gray,
which helps individuals with autism "read" and understand social situations.
Referred to as "Social Stories," this technique presents appropriate social behaviors in the form of a story. These stories
can be read by a teacher or parent, or even by the individual with ASD. Typically, the author introduces the story by
reading it twice with the person. If able, the person with ASD then reads it once a day independently. For a person who
cannot read, the author may record the story on an audiotape with cues for the person to turn the page as he/she 'reads'
along. Once the individual successfully accomplishes the skills or appropriately responds in the social situation
description, use of the story can be decreased. This can be done by reducing the number of times the story is read each
week or by only reviewing the story once a month or as necessary.
Behavioral Therapy
Behavioral training teaches people of all ages with autism how to communicate appropriately. This type of training can
reduce behavior problems and improve adaptation skills. Both behavioral training and behavioral management use
positive reinforcement to improve behavior. They also use social skills training to improve communication. The specific
program should be chosen according to the child's needs.
High-functioning autistic children may be enrolled in mainstream classrooms and child care facilities watching the
behavior of other typically developing children can provide examples for autistic children to follow. However, some
children are over stimulated in a regular classroom and work best in smaller, more structured environments.
Consistent use of these behavioral interventions produces the best results. The child's functional abilities, behavior, and
daily environment should be thoroughly assessed before behavioral training and management begins. Parents, family
members, teachers, and caregivers of the autistic child should all be trained in these techniques. Some treatment
approaches of behavioral therapy include: Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) and TEACCH (Treatment and Education of
Autistic and Related Communication Handicapped Children).
Music Therapy
Many individuals with autism have been treated with music therapy with varying degrees of success. This therapy uses
music as a facilitating agent to teach a variety of skills including academic/cognitive skills, communication skills, and
social skills. Specially trained music therapists include activities such as singing, moving to music and playing
instruments in their sessions.
The idea behind music therapy is that music has been shown to affect a different part of the brain than verbal
communication does. So, if awareness can get into the brain through a different pathway that may be functioning more
effectively than the impaired communication influence, then the student can learn skills through this different channel.
Additionally, music is by nature is very structured; thus, it often provides the best environment for learning. The sound
stimulus can also aid in sensory integration as well as aid in socialization. Finally, a music therapy program can be easily
applied in a private as well as a public school setting.
Auditory Integration Training (AIT)
This therapy is intended to correct or improve auditory processing problems that may occur if the auditory messages
received by the brain are distorted. It is also used for hypersensitivity to sound. Often regarded as a controversial
therapy, AIT involves listening to vocal music through headphones connected to a device that electronically transforms
the sounds. Training is provided for 30 minutes, typically twice a day for 10 consecutive days. Before receiving the
AIT, the individual is given an audiogram to determine the hearing ability for various sound frequencies. After this, the
individual listens to music through a special machine through the earphones.
Although no scientific research exists to support this intervention, some parents feel it has made significant changes for
their child. Others, however, have noted few if any differences after the therapy. Supposedly, AIT reduces hearing
hypersensitivity for some people as well as providing intense stimulation for the brain. More research to support use of
this method is needed. It is believed that such sensitivity and sound distortion can lead to learning and behavior
problems.
The Son-Rise Program
Son-Rise is a treatment program for autism, autism spectrum disorders, PDD and other disabilities related to
communication and reciprocity. The program teaches a specific and extensive method of treatment and education
designed to help families and caregivers enable their children to dramatically improve in all areas of learning,
development, communication and skill acquisition. It offers educational techniques, strategies and principles for
designing, implementing and maintaining a stimulating, high-energy, one-on-one, home-based, child-centered program.
The therapy is an educational treatment which harmonizes and includes joining children instead of going against them.
The program places parents as key teachers, therapists and directors of their own programs and utilizes the home as
the most nurturing environment in which to help their children.
The Son-Rise belief is that by joining in a child's repetitive and ritualistic behaviors supplies the key to unlocking the
mystery of these behaviors and facilitates eye contact, social development and the inclusion of others in play. Utilizing a
child's own motivation advances learning and builds the foundation for education and skill acquisition. Teaching through
interactive play results in effective and meaningful socialization and communication. Placing the parent as the child's
most important and lasting resource provides a consistent and compelling focus for training, education and inspiration.
Creating a safe, distraction-free work/play area facilitates the optimal environment for learning and growth is basically
the approach.
Dolphin Assisted Therapy
Dolphin Assisted Therapy (D.A.T.) is a new modern medicine that some people categorize as part of the Animal
therapy. This field of medicine although relatively new, has shown results in patients who try it. Doctors at the dolphin
therapy center claim they have helped more than 1,000 children overcome learning disorders, and say that represents a
97 percent success rate. Dolphins and children working together have built a hypothetical base, and programs designed
for children suffering from a range of disorders, including autism and A.D.D, ages 2-13 has made it a realization.
The student with special needs is taken to the pool and is encouraged to swim with the dolphin for thirty minutes. The
individual stays in close contact with the dolphin, cuddles and kisses the dolphin; the dolphin sings to the student and
helps him/her swim, carrying the individual who holds on to its fins. A carefree relationship between the student and the
dolphin is experienced. Swimming with dolphins for half an hour enhances the child’s awareness and curiosity to the
outside world. As a result, acceleration is observed in the learning process of children who are tutored by special
instructors, who take speech lessons and who are treated with physical therapy.
Some medical professionals admit that dolphins can have a therapeutic effect on people suffering from depression and
learning difficulties. But doctors are baffled as to how the process works. One theory is that dolphins use their unique
scanning system skill to identify neurological disorders in people, and then help them relax and open up to learning and
healing. But many scientists argue that the children just like the feel of the dolphins, and it is no more than a recreational
pastime. And they note that there is not a conclusive study on dolphin therapy to prove it really works.
Biomedical Treatments
Among the available options are biomedical treatments (interventions that involve activity of bodily process) that some
families feel have been helpful to their children with autism spectrum disorders. Some of these choices have some
documentation as to their effectiveness on specific symptoms. Certain medications, for example, have been proven to
be helpful in reducing difficult symptoms such as anxiety or obsessive/compulsive behaviors.
There’s others like dietary interventions, which have little proven evidence, but have been supported by families who
say the improvements in their children’s abilities or behavior are noticeable. There are also many other choices available;
among them are some that are dangerous, and have little support from anyone other than the individuals who profit
from them. We advise families to seek extensive information and talk to many other families who have tried a
biomedical intervention before trying this treatment. You should also research and verify basis of any unusual
treatments before you invest.
Caution: Many of these listed can be expensive, and are not generally covered by insurance, though you may wish to check with
your pediatrician for advice on filing insurance claims.
Secretin Hormone Therapy
This was a popular concocted treatment in recent years due to a news report that praised the effectiveness. Secretin is
actually a natural hormone that was used in diagnostic tests for intestinal ailments. . The safety and efficacy of secretin
has been approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for single dose use in diagnosing gastrointestinal
problems such as impaired pancreatic function or gastric problems such as ulcers in adults.
At the present time, there is no agreed upon procedure to determine which children may potentially benefit from the use
of this drug. Physicians are advised that, like all drugs, there is the possibility of adverse events that may be associated
with individual allergies or susceptibilities. An initial small test dose is recommended as a precaution against allergic
reactions and appropriate measures for the treatment of acute hypersensitivity reactions should be administered.
Although more than 100 children have received secretin injections for the treatment of autism, only one study on its use
in three children has been published at this time. The study discuss possible mechanisms of action in the relation of "gut-
brain" theories of autism that propose a link between the gastrointestinal disorders observed in many children with
autism and their brain impairment. Since that time, many studies have been done with little evidence of its effectiveness.
Dietary Interventions/Megavitamins
Several researchers have presumed that diet, food allergies or intolerance, or yeast may contribute to or even cause
autism, although at the current time no research exists to prove or disprove this theory. Since researchers are still
actively exploring much of this area, reliable information concerning this possible intervention is sometimes difficult to
find.
Some researchers have believe that sugar, wheat, milk and some additives may be the cause of autistic-like behaviors in
individuals. Others believe that a lack of essential fatty acids in the diet or an overgrowth of yeast (Candida) is the
culprit. Some dietary interventions such as antifungal medications, herbal treatments, gluten and casein-free diets (both
sources of protein), and elimination of processed foods and food additives have gained popularity. Additionally, limited
research exists regarding the use of mega doses of Vitamin B6 and Magnesium to treat autism. The goal of this therapy
is to normalize body metabolism and thus improve behavior.
Vitamin Therapy
There is a theory that vitamin deficiencies, probably due to related digestive and environmental factors, can cause
behavioral and learning problems. Vitamin B6 has been shown to normalize brain waves and urine chemistry as well as
reduce the effects of allergic reactions by strengthening the immune system.
DMG (Dimethylglycine, a non-toxic metabolite)
DMG is available in many health food stores. It is legally classified as a food. Parents have reported positive benefits in
behavior. For those who have noted a difference, most have noticed this within two weeks of its usage. There have
been legal battles over its use, so it is no longer sold as a vitamin, but rather as a food product.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C is suggested as a vitamin for persons with ASD due to its improvement in the depressive, manic, and
paranoid symptom complexes, together with an improvement in personality functioning. It has not been researched as a
treatment for ASD, but families report improvement in some children. Vitamin C is crucial to brain function, which may
relate to noted improvements in some persons with ASD.
The use of vitamins has been supported by unscientific reports to improve speech, eye contact, social behavior, and
attention span. However, these interventions must be monitored in order to maintain a healthy level of vitamins in the
body. Certain specific vitamin regimens are felt to be effective by some families.
Nutritional therapy – Each person functions best with different levels of nutrients in the body. If these are not
available in sufficient quantity it can affect performance of metabolism. There may also be toxins present in the system
that can have an affect on levels of nutrients. Nutritional therapy is designed to provide the individual body’s optimum
level of needed nutrients through the use of supplements.
Food allergies/sensitivities – Some specialists in environmental medicine believe that brain function may be affected
by a reaction to a certain food or family of foods, or other environmental substances. Sensitivity to these substances
can result in behavioral, motor, learning or personality dysfunction. Typical allergy tests may not identify these
substance sensitivities. Specialists in environmental medicine use a variety of tests that are different from typical allergy
testing.
Yeast/fungal overgrowth – The thinking behind this theory is that overgrowth of candida yeast may occur when the
intestinal environment is altered by a weakened immune system. This imbalance can, in turn, create dysfunctions in
other areas of the body, including the brain.
‘Leaky gut’ – Related to the yeast/fungal theory, this term describes the belief that toxins produced in the digestive
process pass through barriers in the intestine and enter the bloodstream due to a compromised immune system. These
toxins then affect the rest of the bodily functions that depend on the blood supply, including the brain.
Symptoms of food allergy, yeast infection, and/or leaky gut are associated and often they are treated together.
Treatment usually consists of a diet that eliminates foods that promote yeast growth along with supplements of ‘good’
bacteria and/or anti-fungal agents.
MMR connection
There is a great deal of controversy currently over the possible connection of childhood vaccines and the onset of
autism. While there is no provable evidence of a connection at this time, drug manufacturers have removed the mercury
content in some vaccines. Some researchers have suggested that parents ask about the mercury content of a vaccine
before immunizing, to be sure your child is receiving the newer vaccines. They also say that it might be advisable (at
least until further information is available) to immunize individually rather than with multiple vaccines at one time, and/or
that immunization be delayed until the child is older than the current two-year-old standard. It is, however, still required
that children be immunized before they can be registered for public school, and it is not generally recommended that
children not be immunized at all.
Metal detoxification
There are some who support the research that metals which are known to be toxic (lead, mercury, etc.) are present in
higher quantities in individuals with autism and other developmental disabilities, and that this may be related to their
ability to function. It is not clear whether the reported levels are accurate, or whether it might be a cause of autism or
simply an after effect of some other source. It is also not clear what therapies might be helpful, should it prove to be
related. Chelation or removing metals from the blood is a risky endeavor, and there is currently no firm evidence that
this is effective.
Educational Program
Since children on the autism spectrum are so different from one another, and since there may be more than one cause
for autism, there is a great deal of controversy over what is the ‘best’ educational program. While professionals and
researchers may differ in their support of specific methods, there are certain principles that all agree on. Intervention at
the very earliest opportunity, intensity, and consistency are all supported by professionals regardless of their specific
views. This should be kept in mind when planning for the education of all children with autism spectrum disorders. It is
also important to recognize that each method has some value, and that different children may need different approaches.
| Autism Therapies |
| ________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Copyright © 2004 Bright Tots® Inc. - Educational Toys & Resource Guide to Child Development - All rights reserved. ________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ |
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