The “Professionals” Matching Game: Test Your Knowledge!

You learn your child has a disability, and suddenly in come “the professionals.” Your life becomes a maze of specialists, therapists, and other “ists.” It can become overwhelming. In this part one of my two-part blog on professionals, let’s test your knowledge of these 19 specialists and see if you can match them to their (very basic) job descriptions below: Professionals: Geneticist Endocrinologist Counselor Pediatrician Orthopedic Specialist Ophthalmologist Optometrist Psychiatrist Psychologist Speech & Language Pathologist Audiologist Physical Therapist Occupational Therapist Neurologist Social Worker Special Education Teacher Behavioral Therapist Nutritionist Scientist/Researcher Basic Job Descriptions: A. Treats diseases of the eye. B. … Continue reading →

Choosing a Pediatrician or Specialist for Your Child

I’ll never forget the doctor’s visit where I sat across from my son’s pediatrician, describing his congenital cataract. I was very concerned about what it might mean. I had done a lot of research, and knew the possibilities. As I ran one scenario past the doctor, she gave me a blank look. She had absolutely no idea what I was talking about. “Have you heard of that condition?” I asked. Somewhat reluctantly, she admitted she never had. As I mentioned more concerns, she nervously turned her back and got out a notepad. “What were those terms again?” she asked. It … Continue reading →

“If Only We Had Known…” Couples Sue over Wrongful Life

Is having a special needs child worse than death? Apparently for some parents, it is. A number of couples are now suing their obstetricians for not informing them about testing procedures available during their pregnancy, which would have exposed fetal conditions such as spina bifida. In other words, they lost the opportunity to make an informed choice about continuing the pregnancy. According to the law in many states, physicians must inform expectant couples of all their prenatal testing options. Personally, I don’t blame parents for wanting to know about the health of their unborn child. And prenatal testing can provide … Continue reading →

Precocious Puberty: How it Could Affect Your Child

Precocious Puberty is a condition where a child enters into his or her sexual development too early. What is not commonly known is that children with neurological disorders of every kind are twenty times more likely to experience early-onset puberty than neuro-typical kids. A study found that children with various forms of autistic disorder typically have higher levels of testosterone in their family members than that of non-autistic children. This elevated level of testosterone has been shown to be a risk factor, and it’s prenatal. What is too early? For girls, any signs of sexual development prior to age eight … Continue reading →

Childhood Seizures: What Parents Should Know

If your child had a seizure, would you know it? And would you know what to do? What is a seizure? A seizure is a brief period of time when a person’s brain has a surge of electrical activity. The surge temporarily alters consciousness, perceptions, and/or muscle control. Children with Cerebral Palsy, Autism, mental retardation, or any neurological disorder are at higher risk for experiencing a seizure. It’s a good idea for parents to recognize the symptoms and know what to do. Possible signs of a seizure: Staring Spells. If your child has episodes of staring into space, make it … Continue reading →

Is Something Wrong With My Child? What to do when you’re concerned.

It’s a scary thought. As a parent, you’ve watched your little one play and develop, and something doesn’t seem right. Your child doesn’t seem to be speaking or behaving the way other children do. Friends and family try to reassure you that “every kid learns at his own pace.” But still, you wonder. What if something is wrong? Could my child have a disability or be developmentally delayed? Share your concerns with your Pediatrician. Be specific with what you’ve noticed, and what seems amiss. Listen to the doctor’s advice, but remember, ultimately YOU are the greatest advocate for your child. … Continue reading →