Up to half of the people with tuberous sclerosis develop autism and the hope is that any treatment that works well against tuberous sclerosis might also benefit others on the autism spectrum. Tuberous sclerosis is caused by one of several mutations in genes that regulate cell growth and strikes about 1 in 6,000 newborns. People with it commonly develop tumors, autism, and/or epilepsy. The hope is that studying this disease may provide new insights into autism.
New Autism & Asperger’s Hope?
There is potentially new hope for those with autism and Asperger’s. Researchers are now studying an old drug called rapamycin in clinical trials for a rare genetic condition called tuberous sclerosis complex. This study is drawing attention because the disease often leads to autism. Some have been reported mental advances and dramatic gains from this drug trial.
Check back tomorrow for more on the tuberous sclerosis – autism/Asperger’s connection.
Depression
Depression in children and teens is a major problem that is hardly discussed. People are often too embarrassed to talk about it and sometimes in denial. If depression in children and teens is left untreated, it can lead to long-term educational issues, relationship problems, substance abuse and suicide.
Socialize Asperger’s Children
It’s important to get Asperger’s children to socialize as often as possible. Sports and play dates are great ways to get these kids included.
Success: Leave a Trail
Do not follow where the path may lead. Go where there is no path and leave a trail.
Parenting Special Needs Children
When children have special needs, those closest to them may suffer. Parents of children with special needs often experience emotional problems such as fear, sadness, rage, loneliness, and guilt. They also experience physical problems such as exhaustion and self-neglect. Many report their health as “fair to poor“ and over half say their diets and exercise habits have deteriorated since their parenting responsibilities began. They also report that they do not regularly keep their own medical appointments. It is important for those caring for those with special needs to address and treat their own issues as well.
Asperger’s Association of New England – AANE Tutoring
This year’s Asperger’s Association of New England (AANE) Laugh Out Loud Gala will be held at the Newton Marriott Hotel in Newton, MA. Bid generously on the Y3K Tutor In Your Home tutoring and test prep auction donation. As AANE receives no consistent government funding, they rely upon the community at large to help fund the Asperger’s services they provide. Your bid on our auction contribution ensures that AANE will be able to continue providing quality programs and services for individuals with Asperger’s Syndrome and their families.
Asperger’s & Autism Friendly Movie Theaters
Movie theaters around the country are now welcoming Asperger’s and autistic customers. Traditionally movie theaters can be over-stimulating and confining for people with Asperger’s and autism. These Asperger’s and autism inviting movie theaters schedule monthly sensory-friendly movie showings. During these showings the lights stay on and the sound stays low.
Problem To Look For When Kids Hate School #1: Self-Esteem
SELF-ESTEEM – Kids that feel bad about themselves and abilities most likely hate school too. A lot of kids that are deemed “special ed” are discouraged that they are not achieving at the level they want to.
Asperger’s & Autism-Friendly Theater Productions (Part 2)
There are many ways certain theater productions are becoming Asperger’s and autism – friendly. They welcome these patrons and address the sensory overload that usually would deter people with sensory problems from attending. Theaters keep the house lights on but just dimmed. The play’s noise is reduced. Actors are introduced to the audience out-of-character before the show begins. Audience members have stress balls to squeeze during the performance. People with Asperger’s or autism are free to get up and move around during the show. If the music feels too overwhelming, they can escape to a designated quiet room. Some shows offer a downloadable book telling them about the show before the day of the performance so they will know what to expect ahead of time.