– It seems that gluten and casein free diets have a huge impact on the functionality of autistic children.  There is visible regression when a child on this diet has food that doesn’t fall into the guidelines.  There are a lot of resources on this diet, however I haven’t found a lot of recipes online for this particularly.  Gluten-free is plentiful but not GFCF.   I am sure parents would like to see more resources.

 

-My boyfriend’s son recently received an iPad for therapy.  There are some really great apps out there to help them with motor skills, social interaction, etc.  Here is a link to some: http://www.autismspeaks.org/family-services/autism-apps

 

-The biggest and most important thing is to keep them on schedules and routines.  They learn a lot faster and have a better chance of independence with these built in to their lives young.  

 

-One of NuRelm’s clients here in Pittsburgh is one of the largest autism resources in our area, http://www.thewatsoninstitute.org/  

They are in the process of launching a social network geared towards parents dealing with autism disorders and other special needs children.  

 

-My own view, as someone who has not had a lot of contact with autistic children, you just have to get on their level.  They communicate differently.  It is about visuals and instant gratification.  This is why video games appeal to them a lot, like most children, however they can become obsessive.  Thankfully, Isiah seems mildly autistic now that he is on routine and special diet. He is attentive, interactive and is a very sweet child.  I guess it just makes you think 

 

Also, you should check out this article that came out today on CNN:  http://www.cnn.com/2012/03/29/health/autism/index.html?hpt=hp_t1