what age - Autism Spectrum Message Board

Ian1000 · 05-05-2005, 06:11 AM

Do HFA kids get easier as they get older?

Does the humming/jumping when exited reduce as they get older?

How would a low functioning 4 year old differ from a HFA?

Thanks

Ian

kw2vt · 05-05-2005, 07:29 AM

As mom to a 10 yr. old boy diagnosed with aspergers/hfa, I don't think it gets easier as they get older. I think it gets harder. The reason being that kids on the high-end of the spectrum are far more aware of their differences & their inability to "fit in". It has caused my son extreme anxiety & resulted in depression because no matter how hard he tries, he just doesn't "get" the social world. I sometimes think the kids who don't see their differences are far better off.

My son still makes his "sound effects" when he's happy or stressed. He still spins & hops side-to-side. That need hasn't changed. But he has learned when its appropriate to do it & when its not.

As to low functioning vs. high functioning -- I can't answer that. Each kid is unique in their own ways & has their own challenges & strengths. You have to deal with the challenges & use the strengths. Trying to compare your child's development to someone else's child will only frustrate you. Base things on the progress he's made. Each goal met (no matter how small) is a huge accomplishment for our kids.
Karen

Ian1000 · 05-06-2005, 03:44 AM

Thanks
Ian

jeffreys mom · 05-06-2005, 04:58 AM

Ian, I struggle with that question every day. I believe my son will continue to be on the mild side. He has come so far in less than a year with the help of all the therapy he receives. I am so pleased with his progress but for reasons beyond my comprehnsion I still dwell on what the future is going to be like. I need to learn to take it as it comes and be satified with being proud of him right now. I get so angry with myself for not being able to do this because I never want him to feel like he's a disappointment. He never disappoints me, he is so adorable, funny, and very smart but I'm afraid as he gets older that he is going to sense the heartbreak I feel about how the Autism is going to affect his life.
Has anyone else gone through this and been able to get over it with out professional help?