What is Extended School Year?

Extended School Year (ESY) is a legal term that refers to services provided by your school district when school is not regularly in session.  The discussion about whether or not ESY is needed should happen at the annual IEP meeting.  Learn more about what ESY is here. If you think a child needs ESY start […]

Is Asperger’s a real diagnosis?

Diagnosis is a medical term for a label that helps professionals communicate about the cluster of symptoms they see in a person they are treating.  The criteria for making a diagnosis follow the DSM 5 Manual.  As of the May 2013 publishing, Asperger’s is no longer a specific diagnosis.  The behaviors, challenges, and symptoms still […]

Where should my child be tested or get diagnosised?

Though diagnosis by a medical professional (MD or PhD) is necessary for certain documentation and programs, the wait for an assessment can be long.  Being assessed and treated through your local school district or counseling provider can be a first step while awaiting formal diagnosis. Medical professionals in East Central Illinois who offer diagnostic services […]

What are the best interventions for children with ASD?

This is a tricky question to answer.  Individuals with ASD are complex and unique so finding ways to best support them depends on the individual and their goals.  Below, we’ve outlined a few interventions that you would want to be familiar with.  On our “Community Autism Specialists” page we have contact information for area resources.  […]