April is Autism Awareness Month

Autism is a complex neurobiological disorder that affects all persons regardless of race, religion, socio-economic status or geography.

Recent reports reveal that 1 in 110 children in the U.S. has Autism. A child is diagnosed every 20 minutes; more children will be diagnosed with Autism this year than with AIDS, diabetes & cancer combined. It is the fastest-growing serious developmental disability in the U.S.

There is no known cause for Autism, though there may be a genetic predisposition.Early intervention is key to developing the child’s full potential.

Recognize The Signs of Autism

In Infants:
Indifferent to surroundings
Content to be alone, happier to play alone — lack of interest in toys
Shows lack of response to others; no smiling; no eye contact— stares blankly
Does not point out objects of interest to others
Noticeable reduction or increase in activity level
Resists cuddling
No babbling by 12 months; no words by 16 months; no meaningful phrases by 24 months

In Children:
Avoids cuddling or touching
Abnormal play
Frequent behavioral outbursts, tantrums
Inappropriate attachments to objects
Displays little or no eye contact
Over- or undersensitivity to pain; no fear of danger
Difficulty with motor skills
Unresponsiveness to normal teaching methods & verbal clues (despite normal hearing, may appear to be deaf)
Loss of language or social skills

If you recognize any of these signs in your child, contact your pediatrician and
request a screening. Early intervention is key to your child’s future development.

An Autism diagnosis does not commit your child to a lifelong dependence on
psychotropic drugs. Holistic alternatives such as diet and brain-based Chiropractic Neurological therapies are available that address the source of the issue. Call to learn how our Maximum Achievement Program (MAP) can help your child reach his/her maximum learning potential without medication.

--Dr. Keri Chiappino DC,DACNB
Defeat Autism Now! Practitioner

Autism, ADHD, Learning Disorders... Unlocking Your Child's Full Potential Holistically Through Diet, Vitamins & Brain-based Exercise -- Invitation to Lecture 11/9/10 Wild By Nature

Neurological disorders are on the rise. Autism now affects 1 in 110 children; The Center For Disease Control (CDC) figures show that 4.6 million children had a learning disorder in 2007 and 4.5 million children were diagnosed with attention defict hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) that same year. CDC also reports that 56% of children with ADHD were on prescription medication (2003.)

Early diagnosis and intervention are key to developing a child's full potential.

Please join me tomorrow, Tuesday, November 9, 7:00 pm at Wild by Nature in E. Setauket for my lecture on holistic therapies for pediatric neurological disorders such as ADHD, Autism and learning disorders. Learn how natural therapies address the source of your child's symptoms, without the need for medication or surgery. Discover how diet, nutritional supplements, and physical and cognitive exercises can help improve connections in your child's brain.

Attendees will gain a better understanding of the neurological mechanism behind behaviors such as impulsivity and inattention in children diagnosed with ADHD or learning disabilities, or spinning, swaying and stimming behaviors in children with Autism. I'll cover the importance of diet, specifically how the gluten-free/casein free diet can make significant improvements in such areas as speech, bowel habits, language, behavior and sensory issues for children with neurological disorders. In addition, I'll provide helpful tips on how to adopt a gluten-free lifestyle and how to keep your child's diet on track during the upcoming holiday season.

For directions contact Wild By Nature; 631 246 5500.

Hope to see you tomorrow night!

Yours in Health,

Dr. Keri Chiappino
Board-certified Chiropractic Neurologist
Defeat Autism Now! Practitioner

Thanksgiving Tips for Special Needs Children

Tell your child who is coming over or if you are going to someone else’s home.
Have staple food available if your child is on a special diet.
Awareness- Make sure your guests know your child’s special needs.
Nonverbal children may need extra prompting if you are in someone else’s home.
Keep healthy snacks your child likes handy.
Send home doggie bags so you don’t have too many “illegal” foods left over.
Get outside to burn off some energy.
Involve your child in preparations for the holiday.
Vegetables disguised with other foods is essential.         
                                                                      (See Jessica Seinfeld’s "Deceptively Delicious")
Invite those who have been supportive to you.
Never compromise all your routines, or it might be difficult to get back on track.
Gratitude – Remember to be thankful for your beautiful family.


Happy Thanksgiving from Dr. Keri Chiappino and Dr. Brent Reynolds