oh brother

My youngest brother Isaac turned three last month. Two weeks ago he was diagnosed with autism.

In some ways, it is relieving to get this diagnosis, as it puts a name and a reason to the suspicions we've had. However, Isaac was diagnosed with a fairly light form of autism, commonly known as "late bloomer." Autism covers a wide spectrum of disability, with the least severe kids ending up fairly close to completely functional, while the most severe cases are pretty close to completely retarded. Isaac is closer to the former. Here are some symptoms of autism. Isaac fits the "social skills" and "language" categories pretty closely, but almost none of the behavioral symptoms fit him. This is what makes him only a light case. In other words, he has many of the classic symptoms, but none of the worst ones.

So, what does this mean. At three, Isaac is still not potty-trained, and still not talking very much. He can say names, single words, and some phrases that are of interest to him. He will sing songs from his favorite cartoons, but absolutely refuses to repeat useful phrases when prompted. He can usually communicate what he wants (sometimes by throwing a cup at you rather than asking for a drink), but too often he doesn't use words. Isaac often refuses to make eye contact, or to respond to his name. He doesn't play well with others, and he never plays pretend like regular kids. He seems to lack abstract conceptualizing abilities, and prefers to just focus on physical objects and people. If he is frustrated, he will often scream really loud rather than trying to communicate. He shows some obsessive-compulsive tendencies, as well as no concept of personal danger (such as opening an oven, climbing out windows, or running out into the neighborhood street). This obviously makes him harder to look after.

I don't want to be too negative, though. It appears as though Isaac will eventually be able to function in many ways like a normal kid. It will probably take him longer, but he should talk, get potty-trained, learn to read and dress himself, etc. He may always be socially awkward, and have other problems. But he is still a sweet kid. He smiles and laughs a lot, gives kisses, and runs to me to pick him up. Our family loves (and probably spoils) him, and we are learning better ways to deal with him, now that we know some of what is going on in his head.

My family is moving to Russia in a month and a half. Pray for my parents.

a silly one of the two of us


watching youtube clips of Bob the Builder and TeleTubbies on my computer...