If I was able to conduct research any
topic in early childhood field, it would have to be autism. I remember when I
first entered into the early childhood field, at that time you didn’t hear of
children with autism that was over 15years ago. Over the past few years autism
has become so prevalent in our communities. According to the National Autism Association
about 1 in 88 children are on the spectrum of autism. I would want to research
possible causes and if there could be some way to prevent autism.
When I look at the children whose families
are not financially able to help their children with autism or who are not
knowledgeable of information regarding autism it hurts me because they are at
such a disadvantage than other children who families are more involved in
knowing about autism. This research would change the lives of so many families.
Reference
National Autism Association
(2012). Autism retrieved from http://nationalautismassociation.org/resources/autism-fact-sheet/
Naquetta-Autism is what I chose to do my research study on because of the some of the same reasons that you stated. It is becoming more common or more diagnosed and there are so many vary degrees of Autism. I had a child in my class last year who I strongly believe is somewhere on the Autism spectrum, but his parents refused to go to outside help. I feel for all involved because the parents probably don't want to think their child isn't "perfect" and I feel for the child because the longer it goes undiagnosed, the longer he doesn't get the help he needs to function well in a classroom setting.
ReplyDeleteHi Naquetta, Your post reminds me of a conversation I had recently with a family friend. His son is 16 years old and has Asperger's Syndrome, which is a "type" of autism. After many years muddling through the inadequate resources available here in New Mexico, his son is finally receiving professional support, out of state, in the way of complete immersion in camp and boarding school, both specially tailored to the needs of people with autistic disorders. But this kind of quality support comes at a price, which is going to radically alter the economic status of this family... greatly reducing their spendable income. Their son will attend a 4-year boarding school @ $110,000/year. They've decided they have to do it... keep working hard (they are both financial advisors and brokers) drive their cars until the wheels fall off, cancel vacations, and take out a second mortgage on their house. This decision will financially break them, and yet they feel lucky... because they realize that by comparison, most families cannot and will never be able to afford this kind of support for their autistic children.
ReplyDeleteNaquetta, reading your blog I could feel the concern that you have for children with Autism. I have a 12 year old cousin with Autism he is truly blessed because he has a grandmother who sought help for him as a baby. Because she fought for his rights he has mastered things in life already that many said would not be possible. Great post.
ReplyDeleteNaquetta,
ReplyDeleteI do believe that It will make a huge difference of families being more knowledgeable of autism. I can say the talk about autism has never been so relevant and available as it is now. That research can open up a world of difference. Great Post!