Hi! My grandson has been too anxious lately and we're desperate!!! Please someboy help us!!! He's been bitting and pulling out our hair
nb, we don't know what to do to make him understand, we don't believe in physical punishments and we're aware he doesn't do it intentionally. He's non-verbal. We don't want to use Risperdal because I've read that it may cause besity and diabetes. We've tried 5HTP, weighed therapy, and physical activity to help him. Any suggestions?
There are other meds that you can try without the side effects of Risperdal but you are going to have to try them. Certain meds work on certain people better than others so you may have to try a few before you find one that works. Sometimes you also need to try a mixture of them because just one may not do it.
If you are dealing with a non verbal child you are most likely dealing with a frustration issue because the child cannot communicate. In this case you will need to work on sign language and PECS to help our with the communication.
On top of this it sounds like you are also going to need some intense ABA therapy. Unfortunately there is no quick and easy fix for this. Last resort if you are not able to handle the child because of aggression and strength you may need an intense program of some kind or possibly residential treatment.
I know a lot of people are against it but the younger you start the better the outcome. I can tell you from experience it is the best choice we could have made for our child. My daughter has had massive improvements in communication, eating, sleeping and behavior that we could not have had happen at home.
Many thanks!!! I'll try it.
It is difficult to advice. Each child is different. I can only say what I try and what works. Try to stay calm, do not raise voice. If you can hug him, it is the best, Wait till he comes down and start a conversation. Tell him how you feel and ask not to do this again. Wait for the answer. Beleive me, they do understand us and do not try to be annoying. Good luck!
I would try NAC. Here is a case study which showed less aggression.
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC369...
There are also double blind studies showing reduction in repetitive behavior. It is a supplement (PharmaNAC).
@A MyAutismTeam Member, @A MyAutismTeam Member, and @Crossingshells many thanks for your ideas!!! I hadn't had the chance to check my page 'cause my grandson doesn't want to be upstairs anymore -and my computer is in my bedroom.... As you said, all kids are different, we're still trying to find what Works for Nico... Thanks!!!