In the previous post we learned about Pervasive Developmental Disorders, its symptoms and how parents should be alert about their child’s behavior and communication. A pervasive developmental disorder is a lifelong condition and cannot be cured. A doctor when trying to diagnose toddler with PDD, he usually prefers to wait and see the child’s condition if it improves before he makes his final diagnose. He may not want to misdiagnose a child as suffering from autism.
Even though PDDs cannot be cured, there are medicines available to deal with some of the problems associated with the child’s behavior. In addition to the medication, there are specialized treatments and therapies that can help the child to develop some social skills and communication skills.
Children suffering from Pervasive Developmental Disorders have normal mental function. In fact some children who are PDD affected demonstrate a very high intelligence quotient. Their IQ is sometimes greater than the IQ of a normal child. Children, who have mild disorders, perform reasonably well in normal schools. They however, may need some additional support and therapy. Some children may require extra attention hence they need special classes or need specialized teaching, which caters to their specific learning or needs.
Parents must realize that being diagnosed with a pervasive developmental disorder is not the end of the world. In today’s modern world, there are plenty of schools and organizations which are available to help you find appropriate treatment for your child. There is no reason that children with PDD cannot live a normal life considering the advancement in sciences and medication and alternative therapies.