welcome to the Ananya Child Development Center podcast! I’m your host Madhavi Adimulam, an RCI certified professional, a parent to a 25-year-old young man with Autism, and the founder and director of Ananya CDC. Today, I am thrilled to have with me Dr. Shiva Anoop Yella, a senior psychiatrist. As always, we are here to discuss the joys and challenges of raising children with Autism and provide insights and support for parents in the Hyderabad community and beyond.
1. Introduction
In today’s episode, we will be addressing some thought-provoking questions from local parents about Autism therapies, education, nutrition, sensory sensitivities, challenging behaviors, early intervention, and support groups.
But before we dive in, I want to remind our listeners that if you are in the Hyderabad area and looking for autism support services, Ananya Child Development Center is here for you. Visit our website at asap.org.in to learn more about our programs and resources.
2. Early Signs of Autism and Seeking Help
Madhavi: Dr. Anoop, we collected some questions from parents here in our Hyderabad centers, who have young children with autism. I’d like to go through them one by one and get your insights on them. So let’s begin with the first one. Priya, a mother of a two-year-old boy, Rahul, wants to know, as a parent, she’s always worried about missing early signs of autism. What should she be looking for in her child’s development?
Dr. Anoop: As parents, some signs of autism are very evident, such as:
2.1. Communication Challenges
- Poor communication skills.
- Difficulty maintaining eye contact.
- Delay in speech milestones, like uttering bisyllables or forming complete sentences.
2.2. Behavioral Concerns
- Aggressive behavior, including temper tantrums and anger towards parents and peers.
- Toe walking (after walking milestones are fully developed).
- Extreme distress and anger over changes in routine or toy placement.
2.3 What to Do If You Notice Signs
What to Do If You Notice Signs:
- Seek Professional Help: Approach a mental health professional specializing in autism and other childhood mental illnesses as early as possible.
- Avoid Unqualified Professionals: Ensure the professional you choose has the appropriate qualifications and expertise.
3. Supporting Social and Communication Skills at Home
Madhavi: So, the next question is from Raj. He is a father of a three-year-old girl, Anjali. He wants to support his daughter’s social and communication skills at home, but he’s not sure where to start. What are some of the everyday activities or strategies that parents, or Raj, can use to help his child?
Dr. Anoop: Here are some key strategies for parents:
3.1 Quality Time and Socialization
- Dedicate ample time to interact and play with your child.
- Encourage socialization with peers, even in informal settings.
- Address any instances of bullying promptly and provide support.
3.2 Minimize Screen Time
- Limit screen time as much as possible, especially for children under 10.
- Avoid using mobile phones while interacting with your child.
- Remember, children mimic their parents’ behavior.
4. The Importance of Independent Play
Madhavi: So, Dr. Anoop, there are some parents who want to know how much time is too much? Is there anything too much at all about spending time with children?
Dr. Anoop: That’s a crucial question. While quality time is essential, excessive supervision can be counterproductive.
4.1. Quality Time and Socialization
Allow children to have independent play time, just like adults need their own space.
This fosters creativity, problem-solving skills, and reduces dependency.
4.2. Focus on Problem-Solving:
Encourage children to solve age-appropriate problems independently.
Let them figure out puzzles, build blocks, and navigate minor challenges.
Madhavi: Many parents struggle to understand that young children don’t always use logic. Disrupting their imaginative play with adult expectations can hinder their development. Allowing boredom and encouraging self-directed activities are important.
Dr. Anoop: Absolutely. Finding a balance between guidance and allowing independence is key.
5. Navigating a Multitude of Therapies and Interventions
Madhavi: Another question, Seeta, mother of a four-year-old Arjun, asks, there seems to be so many different therapies and interventions out there for children with autism. In your experience, which ones have you found to be the most effective for young children like my son?
Dr. Anoop: There’s no one-size-fits-all approach to therapy. The most effective approach depends on the child’s specific needs and challenges.
5.1. Commonly Effective Therapies
Behavioral Therapy: Addresses challenging behaviors and social skills.
Occupational Therapy: Improves fine motor skills, sensory processing, and daily living activities.
Speech Therapy: Improves communication skills, both verbal and non-verbal.
5.2. Additional Interventions
Psychotherapy: Provides emotional support and coping strategies.
Pharmacotherapy: Involves medication prescribed by a qualified psychiatrist for severe behavioral issues, always under careful supervision.
Choosing Qualified Professionals
Consult a Child Psychiatrist: For a comprehensive assessment and treatment plan, it’s crucial to consult a qualified child psychiatrist or clinical psychologist specializing in autism.
Avoid Unqualified Practitioners: Be wary of individuals without appropriate credentials who may offer ineffective or even harmful interventions.
Madhavi: Many parents end up seeing pediatricians or neurologists who may not have specialized training in autism. It’s crucial to consult with a qualified child psychiatrist, especially one with a DM in child psychiatry.
6. Autism Support in Hyderabad: An Overview
Madhavi: Okay. All your professional life, you’ve worked in Hyderabad. Can you give us an overview of what kind of support does Hyderabad have for the families who have children with autism in Hyderabad?
Dr. Anoop: Hyderabad offers several reputable organizations and hospitals providing autism support services:
6.1. Reputable Options
- National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) in Bowenpally.
- Sweekaroopkar, Secunderabad.
- Rainbow Hospitals, Banjara Hills
- Apollo Hospitals, Jubilee Hills
- Ankura Hospital for Women & Children – Attapur
- Ananya Child Development Center, Madhapur, Banjara Hills, Manikonda & Nallagandla.
6.2. Choose Carefully
Exercise caution when selecting a center and ensure they have qualified professionals and ethical practices.
Be wary of unqualified centers that may exploit families seeking support.
Madhavi: A significant challenge is the lack of awareness about government regulations and qualifications required for therapists. Parents in remote areas often struggle to find qualified professionals nearby.
7. Advocating for Your Child's Needs in Education
Madhavi: So, the next question is, we have Anil, father of a five-year-old Meera. He is concerned about his daughter’s future in the education system. He wants to know, “How can I be the best advocate for my child’s needs and ensure they receive the support they require?”
Dr. Anoop: Parents play a vital role in advocating for their child’s educational needs:
7.1. Be Present and Supportive
Be there for your child emotionally and provide support without being overly intrusive.
Encourage their independence while addressing their needs.
7.2. Communicate with the School
Maintain open communication with teachers and school staff about your child’s needs.
Collaborate to create a supportive learning environment.
Madhavi: From my experience, many parents struggle with inclusion in mainstream schools, even for children with developmental issues beyond autism. Schools often lack the resources and understanding to adequately support these children.
7.3. Focus on Preparedness
Before enrolling in an inclusive school, focus on developing your child’s social skills, managing challenging behaviors, and building their independence.
Consider starting with a smaller, more supportive school before transitioning to a larger institution.
Help Your Child Thrive
8. Gaps in Autism Support Infrastructure
Madhav: From Ananya to International School is probably not a great idea. Are there any particular trends or areas for improvement in autism support infrastructure in Hyderabad, especially when it comes to educational support?
Dr. Anoop: Our education system needs significant improvement in supporting children with autism:
8.1. Lack of Qualified Professionals:
Most schools lack qualified mental health professionals like psychiatrists, psychologists, or clinical psychologists.
Unqualified counselors can do more harm than good.
8.2. Need for Shadow Teachers:
India lacks a robust system of shadow teachers or learning support assistants who provide one-on-one support in mainstream classrooms.
Madhavi: We are currently working with several international schools to develop shadow teacher and learning support assistant courses to address this gap.
9. Nutrition and Sensory Sensitivities
Madhavi: Another question: Neha, mother of a three-year-old Rocky, has a question about the role of nutrition in managing autism symptoms. She wants to know if there’s any truth to this.
Dr. Anoop: Dietary modifications can potentially help manage some autism symptoms.
9.1. Casein-Free and Gluten-Free Diets:
Research suggests that eliminating casein (found in dairy) and gluten (found in wheat) from the diet might reduce aggressive behavior in some children with autism and ADHD.
Consult with a qualified dietician or nutritionist before making any significant dietary changes.
10. Sensory Sensitivities and Behavior Management
Madhavi: Karan, father of a four-year-old Sanvi, and Anita, mother of a five-year-old Dhanush, have questions about managing sensory sensitivities and challenging behaviors, respectively. Can you provide some strategies for coping with these challenges, taking into account any specific considerations for families in Hyderabad?
Dr. Anoop: Here are some tips for managing sensory sensitivities:
10.1 .Identify Triggers
Observe and identify specific sensory stimuli that trigger your child’s unusual behaviors (e.g., light, noise).
10.2. Minimize Exposure
Gradually reduce exposure to those triggers whenever possible.
10.3. Create a Sensory-Friendly Environment
Make adjustments at home and inform teachers about your child’s sensitivities.
Madhavi: Parents often misunderstand sensory sensitivities. A comprehensive autism assessment includes a sensory profile, which helps identify specific sensory issues. Parents can use this information to make necessary adaptations.
10.4. Addressing Challenging Behaviors
Try to identify what triggers your child’s challenging behaviors.
It could be sensory overload, changes in routine, or difficulty communicating their needs.
10.5. Behavioral Therapy
Seek professional help from a behavioral therapist experienced in working with children with autism.
They can teach you strategies to manage behaviors effectively.
10.6. Medication (When Necessary)
In some cases, medication might be necessary, especially if challenging behaviors are severe or pose a risk to the child or others.
Consult with a qualified child psychiatrist to discuss appropriate medication options.
11. The Diagnostic Process
Madhavi Adimulam: I’ll move on to the next question. For parents in Hyderabad who suspect their child may have autism, what is the typical diagnostic process like?
Dr. Anoop: Here’s a typical diagnostic process:
11.1. Initial Consultation
Begin with a consultation with a qualified child psychiatrist.
11.2. Comprehensive Evaluation
The psychiatrist will conduct a detailed evaluation, which may include:
- Developmental history.
- Behavioral observations.
- Psychological assessments.
11.3. Diagnosis and Treatment Plan
Based on the evaluation, a diagnosis will be made, and a personalized treatment plan will be developed.
11.4. Therapy and Interventions
The treatment plan may include:
Behavioral therapy.
Speech therapy.
Occupational therapy.
11.5. Medication (If Needed)
If necessary, medication might be prescribed to address specific behavioral or emotional challenges.
11.6. Importance of Consistency
Following the treatment plan consistently is crucial for maximizing the child’s progress.
12. Early Intervention Considerations
Madhavi: Are there any specific challenges or considerations they should keep in mind when seeking early intervention services?
Dr. Anoop: Early intervention is vital, but seeking support from qualified professionals is crucial.
12.1. Consult Qualified Professionals:
Choose a child psychiatrist or clinical psychologist specializing in early childhood development and autism spectrum disorders.
13. The Role of a Child Psychiatrist
Madhavi: When should they come to you for help?
Dr. Anoop: A child psychiatrist plays a crucial role in:
13.1. Medication Management
Prescribing and managing medication when behavioral therapy alone is insufficient to manage severe behaviors like aggression, hyperactivity, or sleep disturbances.
Medications are used judiciously and at the lowest effective dose to minimize side effects.
13.2. Comprehensive Care Coordination
Collaborating with other therapists (behavioral, speech, occupational) to provide holistic care.
Madhavi: While some parents might be apprehensive about psychiatric medication, it’s important to remember that:
13.3. Medication is Sometimes Necessary
For some children, medication can significantly improve their quality of life and help them benefit more from therapy.
13.4. Start with Therapy
Therapy is typically the first line of treatment.
Medication is considered when therapy alone doesn’t yield sufficient results.
Dr. Anoop: Early intervention is key. Seeking professional help from qualified specialists when you first notice signs of autism can significantly improve outcomes for your child.
14. Conclusion
Madhavi: Dr. Anoop, thank you so much for sharing your expertise and insights with us today. I know our listeners will find your advice incredibly helpful as they navigate the ups and downs of parenting children with autism.
To all our Hyderabad parents out there, remember that you are not alone in this journey.
- Keep Advocating: Advocate for your children’s needs and rights.
- Seek Support: Don’t hesitate to reach out for support from qualified professionals and other parents who understand your journey.
- Build a Community: Together, we can create a more inclusive and supportive community for our children.
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