Dyspraxia & Aspergers -any Mums of kids with these issues?

[mamachops]

I saw a speech pathologist today with my almost 3 year old, as I was concerned about his speech and some other lesser issues.

She quickly diagnosed severe Dyspraxia, and has suggested that I see a paediatrician to look into some possible Aspergers signs.

I knew there was something wrong, but am blown away to suddenly have a 'special needs' child.

I've searched google, and I've read what I can, but would love to make contact with someone who knows about these disorders 1st hand.

Thanks

[luvmyboys]

My eldest was diagnosed with Verbal dyspraxia at around 3 but was not severe, can you understand any of the words he is saying? I have worked with a number of kids with autism/aspergers, what sorts of things are they concerned about

[monkeytoes]

Hold on..........Take a deep breath!!

Firstly, Aspergers comes under ASD. For someone to be diagnosed I am pretty sure they need to go thru several tests and be assessed by a "team of professionals". It takes months for the assessment process to be completed. My DD is currently undergoing assessment for ASD. It is a loooooong process.
I am not that familiar with Dyspraxia. I know there are a few different types. I once thougt my DD had motor dyspraxia, but you are obviously talking about verbal dyspraxia. It's when they know what they want to say, but can't get their mouth in the right position to make the sounds. Is that right?
I know of a lady in Perth that runs a Dyspraxia support group. I can give you her details if you want.
Perhaps the Speech Pathologist didn't explain herself very well. I think you probably need to see a Paediatrican and a Child Phsychologist. It sounds like the Speechie has totally freaked you out.

I hope you find some answers soon. Try not to worry too much (hard not too, I know). I often tell myself I have been chosen to parent a special child because I am capable and I can cope with it and I can learn from the experience. Special children have special parents.

[mamachops]

Thanks,

Yes, it's verbal dyspraxia that I'm on about. The speech pathologist (who is very experienced) said she could only discern about 4 true sounds. We can understand more of what he says than that obviously, but we've got used to the substitutions that he uses, I guess.

She didn't freak me out so much as surprise me. I thought we'd come away with a few exercises. She had no doubts whatsoever about him having severe dyspraxia, and said that she was picking up some markers for Aspergers, but that is why she's referred us to a paediatrician, as she clearly can't make that diagnosis alone after one assessment. I think she was trying to be honest and open with me as I come from a medical background.

I'd certainly be keen to be put in contact with the support group that you mention.

I know it's early days, and I'm waiting for the official report from her before I go off to see the paediatrician, but I'm naturally seeking as much info as I can.

Thanks for your advice ladies!