Autism Specialist
Good Choice Pediatrics Inc.
Anslem Oparaugo, MD, MPH
Pediatrician located in Las Vegas, NV
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, autism spectrum disorder affects as many as one of every 68 children. At Good Choice Pediatrics in Las Vegas, Dr. Anslem Oparaugo helps kids with autism and their families navigate autism diagnostics and treatment. If you suspect that your child might fall somewhere on the autism spectrum, or if you’re looking for new treatment paths for your autistic child, schedule a consultation with Dr. Oparaugo, either online or by calling the office.
Autism Q&A
What is autism?
Autism covers a range of conditions that fall under autism spectrum disorder. There are many types of autism, and people living with autism display a vast array of abilities and challenges. Some of the signs of autism in very young children are:
- No smiling or expressions of joy by six months
- Little eye contact by six months
- No sharing of sounds or facial expressions by nine months
- No attempts to communicate by 12 months
- No words at 16 months
- Lack of phrases by 24 months
Some of the signs of autism in older children include:
- Repetitive behaviors like rocking or spinning
- Repeating the same words or phrases
- Avoiding eye contact
- Difficulty understanding the feelings of others
- Delayed or nonexistent verbal skills
- Unusual or intense reactions to stimuli like sounds, lights, or tastes
- Significant emotional distress caused by changes in routine
How is autism treated?
Autism treatment has come a long way. In decades past, many autistic kids were institutionalized. Today, kids with autism can live full lives, learning and flourishing at their own pace.
Treatment approaches vary and depend on your child’s specific skills, challenges, and needs. When working with autistic kids, Dr. Oparaugo creates customized treatment plans designed to fit the needs of both child and family.
Many treatment options help identify functional or behavioral challenges and how to improve those areas. Some therapies teach kids to focus on specific activities to redirect behavior, while others help kids better identify and respond to their own emotions, or those of others. Treatment paths differ according to a child’s age and needs.
How is the family involved in autism treatment?
Dr. Oparaugo understands the toll that autism can take on a family. That’s why he involves parents in the treatment plan from the very beginning. The most effective therapies for autistic kids are those that the family can incorporate into their daily lives.
Feedback from family members is central to tracking progress in autism treatment. Dr. Oparaugo is available to address your questions and concerns, listen to the challenges you face, and help you find the best course of action for your child and your family.
Schedule an initial consultation today to learn more about Dr. Oparaugo’s approach to autism.