autism update

I used to doubt Bryce's autism diagnosis. I wondered, is it just ADHD? Is it overdiagnosed? but the more I read about autism and the older he gets, it makes complete sense. He makes little to no eye contact with others. He is extremely picky with food. He spins and crashes into us for much of the day. 

He is the most affectionate six year old I know. He craves affection, deep hugs and warm blankets. He is sincere, when he gives a compliment or says he is sorry you know he means it. He is smart. He draws interesting pictures of angry birds and loves legos. Loves board games. Loves tasks and jobs.

I've been reading articles lately that talk about the fears that accompany autism. I was reading about a boy who's parents offered him a great reward if he ate a salad. And he spent hours in a restaurant trying to eat it. I really do think some of his behavior is fear driven. Bryce wants to sleep with the overhead light on every night. He doesn't like shadows (we turn it off after he goes to sleep).

I constantly worry if we are doing enough. I worry that he doesn't eat fresh fruit or vegetables. When he is stressed or keyed up he craves liquids+consistent textures (applesauce, pudding, milk). This reminds me of Temple Grandin in her movie, which I can't recommend enough. If you are family its such a good place to start in understanding Bryce and autism.

We had a doctor's developmental visit a few weeks ago for Bryce. I shared all of his progress. (He voluntarily took a shower 2x recently! And tried a bagel with poppy seeds on it!) And his big meltdowns are less often (the structure of school 5x a week helps tremendously) School has been a relatively easy transition and he loves it. He is such an eager learner. I think all day school will be good for him (right now he is half-day).

The print out summary from the developmental pediatrician now categorizes Bryce as "high functioning" I've always thought that and it is encouraging. 

*sorry for the weird font on this! I pulled two posts together :)