BRADY & PDD NOS (Pervasive Developmental Disorder, Not Otherwise Specified)

The other day, I stated in a blog entry, that a syndrome, disorder or a disability does not define my child. What makes my child is their unique personality. I love both my kids for who they are and a label does not change a mother’s unconditional love.

Recently, my two-year-old son received a diagnosis of PDD NOS (Pervasive Developmental Disorder, Not Otherwise Specified). From what I have read, this disorder neurologically based. My son will need intervention aiming at his social-commutation skills and behavior.

What is PPD NOS? PPD NOS is part of the Autism Spectrum Disorders also know as Pervasive Developmental Disorders. This is a condition in which some of the characteristic of Autism are feature - but not all. The child may only have a few symptoms. PDD NOS is also refers to as “Atypical personality development”, “Atypical PDD”, or “Atypical Autism”. Like Heterotaxy, no two children with PDD NOS are alike. Therefore, children have uniqueness about them. One child may have language delay as to where the other child has more of a social development delay and the other may not have a behavior pattern. PDD is very confusing and its terminology does not help one make sense of it all. Nevertheless, In the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-IV), you will find PDD NOS where it describes as to having an impairment of social interaction, communication, and/or stereotyped behavior patterns or interest, but don’t meet the requirements to be diagnosed with a specific disorder under PDD.

How am I coping with it? It has been about one week since my meeting with the Developmental Center at Children’s. I am still having a hard time coming to grips with my son’s diagnosis. It was heartbreaking to hear the words come out of the doctor’s mouth. Most of all, I had a hard time grasping at the material that he was handing me about Autism. Yes, I was in shock. I was going through the motions, but it was as if I was not there. That it was someone else hearing the news – not me. My first thought, was how unfair it was. Not only does Chloe have a rare syndrome and learning disability, but now Brady also had a disorder. It was indeed a tough day for me. I knew in my hearts of all hearts that something was not right with my son. I know he has a speech delay, he likes to peel labels, and he likes to stack things, and tends to be shy around people. However, I wanted to be wrong. I wanted to hear from the doctor that Brady would out grow this; that this was only a phase. Most of all, I did not want confirmation on what I suspected.

However, I do know the sooner he gets help the easier it will be for him. Most of all, it is not about me but my son. How can I help him right now? What is my next step? Those are the questions I had. Right now, I am looking into an ABA (Applied Behavior Analysis) program. From what I have read on the internet, ABA is a proven method that will help my son with skills that he will need. The teaching method is broken into small parts so it makes it easier for him to learn. Brady, will receive a reward with every task that he meets. The positive reinforcement will also help him in maintaining the skills that he learned. Since August, a speech therapist from Early Intervention has been working with him twice a week. I do notice a difference in him. I hope it will continue and gain strength now that ABA will be involved.

Like any mother out there, I want the best for my kids. I want to ensure that life is easy for them. It breaks my heart when my kids have to face certain challenges in life. I have faith in Brady and Chloe. I believe in my children and no matter what they have my support. I will guide my children in whatever they need. I am the strongest advocate my kids have.