DS, 7, looks like a candidate for having Fragile X, although his IQ is not impaired. He has the sensory, speech, social, hyperactive, and behavioral, and physical characteristics of Fragile X, and we are planning to have him tested - if for no other reason than to find out the genetic ramifications.
My question is: does anyone know if therapies used on kids without Fragile X, such as OT for sensory problems or Fast ForWord for auditory processing, would be any different in this case?
I am planning to put DS on Fast ForWord starting next week, but I wasn’t very clear on whether this (new) possible diagnosis would affect how this program would work. As far I know, auditory processing IS auditory processing, and it should not matter what the cause is.
DS pretty much presents like a kid with combined SI/ADHD/TS/OCD diagnoses, so I can’t imagine what else could be “different”.
However, over 2 1/2 years of OT have done little or nothing for him, and I had figured up until now that most therapists are just not experienced enough with TS and its resulting effects to really see what helps him.
Any thoughts? TIA!
Auditory Processing Disorder
Hi
auditory processing disorder is a disorder which can mimic some of the disorders you include in your list or can co exist with them.
APD is a a random failing to process received auditory or verbal information. which leads to a lack of understanding of instructiuons, and diificulty in following conversations, and feeling comfortable only with small groups of people, 2 or 3 at most. APD is normally inheritied by genetically, although some serious acidents can produce a similar fault.
There are resulting communication problems with peers, teacher, and even family, unless the disability is understood.
So if APD is being considered and FastForword is being recommended then it may be worth trying to find Audiologist trained in the dianosis of APD to find out if it is one of the disabilities Ds may have.
I tutored a boy with Kleinfelter’s Syndrome, which is not the same as Fragile X but seems to have some similarities.
You are right, a problem is a problem and good teaching is good teaching. As always, find out where he is weak, and use his strengths to work on building up his weak points.
With a child with a physical/genetic disorder, you have to go even farther with patience and backtracking to the beginning and breaking things up to the smallest possible skill. Don’t give up, but make reasonable goals from where he is now. Many small steps will add up to some big progress.