My son is 8 years old,diagnosed with PDD/NOS.Hes had it ruff since birth.We only found out the diagnosis within the past year.We reside in Connecticut,he is in New Hampshire because there were no hospitals with an opening for him.The hospital hes in specializes in Developmental Disabilities.He has been there for over 4 months.The Hospital has recommended a theraputic school full year as part of the potential release plan.The city we live in recomends a less theraputic school thats not full year.Now the hospital has recomended residential setting for him.My son has no release in sight because we cant get the programs in place and the city on the same page.Im at my wits end,I dont know what else to do who to call where to go.I know my son needs the help but I want him home.I only get to see him once a week for a few hours,because we work.Imiss my beautiful child,can anyone help us get him home?
Jr's Mom,
I'm sorry I don't have any advice for you, but if you will post your question in the "Parents of Autistic Children" you will get more reponses.
God bless
JR's Mom,
You can contact your state education department...your child has specific rights under the law regadring IDEA...Individuals with Disabilities Education Act....they can offer assistance and guide you....
DEFINITELY contact an advocate. You can get names by going to www.copaa.org and clicking on FIND AN ATTY/ADVOCATE. That's a start. Schools do NOT have to give what the doctors recommend. The schools ONLY have to give an appropriate educations (whatever THAT is), not medical intervention. The standard for a 12-month program is that a child cannot experience "severe regression" based on the lack of summer services. YOU must PROVE that he will regress without those services. Doctor's reports will help immensely, but in a Hearing, testimony (that means a doctor must appear in person and that can get pricey) is what the Hearing Officer listens to.
Like I said, get an advocate.