Showing posts with label autism. Show all posts
Showing posts with label autism. Show all posts

Tuesday, July 14, 2009

Autistic meltdown vs. temper tantrum

Found this on another website and thought it was interesting. Here are some characteristics of a temper tantrum, versus an autistic meltdown:
Temper tantrum
"A temper tantrum is very straightforward. A child does not get his or her own way and, as grandma would say, "pitches a fit." This is not to discount the temper tantrum. They are not fun for anyone.
Tantrums have several qualities that distinguish them from meltdowns.
* A child having a tantrum will look occasionally to see if his or her behavior is getting a reaction.
* A child in the middle of a tantrum will take precautions to be sure they won't get hurt.
* A child who throws a tantrum will attempt to use the social situation to his or her benefit.
* When the situation is resolved, the tantrum will end as suddenly as it began.
* A tantrum will give you the feeling that the child is in control, although he would like you to think he is not.
* A tantrum is thrown to achieve a specific goal and once the goal is met, things return to normal."


Autistic meltdown
"* During a meltdown, a child with autism does not look, nor care, if those around him are reacting to his behavior.
* A child in the middle of a meltdown does not consider her own safety.
* A child in a meltdown has no interest or involvement in the social situation.
* Meltdowns will usually continue as though they are moving under their own power and wind down slowly.
* A meltdown conveys the feeling that no one is in control.
* A meltdown usually occurs because a specific want has not been permitted and after that point has been reached, nothing can satisfy the child until the situation is over.
"

My only disagreement with this is that I have definitely known kids with autism who would throw true temper tantrums. The intention was very definitely to manipulate. I've had other parents of kids with autism tell me the same thing- many of these kids are "capable" of using tantrums (that appear similar to meltdowns) to try and get their way.

Monday, June 29, 2009

Steven's Law

Steven's Law is going to be effective this Wednesday, July 1. The question is, will your child be eligible for autism-related insurance coverage. See the step by step guide below for help.

1. Ask the Company/Human Resources Dept. (HR) for whom you work (where you receive your health benefits/insurance) if the plan your family has is a “Self Insured Plan.” If they tell you “Yes” – you are not eligible for benefits under Steven’s Law. If they tell you “No” go to step # 2.
2. If you do not know or are unsure, ask the HR Department if the company has 50 or more employees. If they tell you “No” than you are not eligible for benefits under Steven’s Law. If they tell you “Yes” go to step #3.
3. Ask the HR Department where/in which state your Insurance Plan is “underwritten.” If your plan has been underwritten in any state other than Arizona you may not be eligible for Steven’s Law.
4. Call your insurance company and ask for “Member Benefits.” Ask if they (Customer Service) are familiar with Arizona’s Steven’s Law/Autism Coverage.If they tell you “No” ask to speak to a Supervisor and ask the Supervisor the same questions.
5. If they tell you “Yes” ask them if your family (your child) is eligible for the benefits under your plan.
6. If they tell you “No” ask them why/what the reason is, and then tell them you want the reason you do not have coverage sent to you in writing.
7. If they tell you “Yes” request a list of “Network or Contracted Providers” or “Preferred Providers” for your area. This will give you all of the agencies and/or individuals who are contracted with your insurance company to provide services outlined by Steven’s Law.
8. Because some Companies have elected to offer this coverage when they are not required to, call your insurance company and ask even if you think you are NOT eligible. If they tell you that you ARE eligible, request it in writing before you make any appointments etc.

From here.

Tuesday, April 7, 2009

Celebrate Autism Awareness Month!


COME TO CASINO ARIZONA FOR A MUSICAL TRIBUTE TO AMERICA'S GREATEST SUPERSTARS AND HELP CHILDREN WITH AUTISM IN ARIZONA!

DATE: Thursday, April 30th

TIME:
Cocktails at 5:15 p.m. & Show from 6:45-8:20 p.m.

LOCATION:
Casino Arizona at 101 & McKellips
524 North 92nd Street, Scottsdale, AZ 85256

MORE:
Download the FLYER or visit our WEBSITE for more information!

All Proceeds Benefit: ASA-GPC & ACT! Today

Sensory Friendly Films!

ASA & AMC Present Sensory Friendly Films!

Hannah Montana:
The Movie


DATE: Saturday, April 18th

TIME:
10:00 AM

LOCATION:
Two Valley Locations

MORE:
Visit our website for
locations and more information!

Sunday, March 29, 2009

Celebrate Autism Awareness Month with the ASA Picnic!

Annual ASA Family Support Picnic!
WHEN:
Saturday, April 11th
WHERE: McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park,
7301 E. Indian Bend Road
TIME: 12:00 - 4:00 pm
LOCATION: Papago Ramada
(South End of the Park past the Tunnel)


ASA-Greater Phoenix will be providing GFCF Hamburgers, Hot Dogs, condiments, and paper products (plates, napkins, utensils). There are BBQ Grills and Covered Picnic Tables. Bathroom facilities are located nearby. There will be BOUNCERS and other fun activities for the kids as well as the train and carousel! This is a wonderful opportunity for our families to get together and socialize as well as network with other autism families in their communities.

We are asking families to bring an item to share by last name: A-H: Drinks/Water/Juice/ Soda, I-Q: Desserts, R-Z: Side Dishes. We encourage you to bring a GFCF or special diet item to share if your family follows one! Please RSVP by April 1st to Katie at Katie@phxautism.org or at 602-295-8062 so we have enough food for everyone!
Original link here