Dear Pearsonswife,

      Thank you for replying to my message about my autistic daughter and her eating.  And sharing your story about your grandson.  It is comforting to know that I am not the only  parent dealing with these concerns.  I don't know if I can give you any advice that you haven't heard.  But, I can tell you what I have tried and have been told myself.  Emma has a good vocabulary now.  But, she was a late talker.  I did teach her a few words in sign language.  Which did make a world of difference.  She, even now, gets extremely upset when she can't explain or convey what she wants to say.  The hand signing helped calm it down a little.  I do think it is great that you have a board of pictures for him to point out his wants.  It is also great that you all read to him like you do.  Keep it up.

      As far as eating.  Emma's doctor told me the same thing when she was 4.  That she will just grow out of eating non-textured foods.  "You don't see any 9 year olds eating baby food" is what she said to be exact.  Well, Emma will be 8 in January and we are still on same diet of instant mashed potatoes, oatmeal, and baby food.  So, don't be satisfied with a doctor saying your grandson will change.  Changing is the last thing an autistic person wants to do.  Which I am sure you know all to well.  Since I am still struggling with Emma eating new foods.  The only thing that I can suggest is to have him evaluated by an Occupational Therapist.  We are going to see one in Dec. for Emma's eating and a few other autistic symptoms that she has.  Good Luck.

      ABC News did give a few web sites to check out.

http://www.autism-society.org/site/PageServer?pagename=research_info

http://www.autismsource.org/

Again, good luck and keep up the good work.

Take Care,

Amyq9