I am hoping that someone can help me sort out how to help my son(Kyle). He is 6 and was just diagnosed with ADHD and ODD.I also have a 5 year old son with autism. We and some of the boys teachers see many characteristics of AS in Kyle. He doesn't fit the "classic"(if there is such a thing)picture of AS and yet the more I read about both disorders the more I lean toward AS. Is there anyone else out there who has been here that could offer some advice.
Thanks

My son has Asperger's and I've been told he doesn't display 'classic' behaviour. My nephew is eleven and my sister has just been told he may have either ADHD or ODD. All these diagnosis are very similar and quite confusing for parents.
Perhaps you might like to check out this website I hope it is of help to you http://www.medhelp.org/HealthTopics/ADHD.html

Thank you for responding to my question and I will check out the website!
Sara

Before I knew about Aspergers, I fought the ODD label for my ADHD son. When he was diagnosed with Aspergers, educators would say that most Aspies were not aggressive. However, I went to a Region 10 (texas) education workshop, and the presenter talked about behavior very similar to my son's: refusal to work, fairness and justice issues, acting out, aggression linked to frustration and communication issues, etc. Her name was Brenda Smith-Myles (or Myles-Smith, can't remember). She has written books on the subject. I will try to post the titles after I look them up. Good luck!

momadmom

My son doesn't have all the classic symptoms either. He doesn't perseverate like many AS kids do. His interests change and quite often. He has pretty good eye contact with people he knows. I do know that he indeed has AS. He has difficulty making friends and is a very concrete thinker. He can be ridgid and has sensory issues.
Laura

My daughter is six and had been diagnosed with ADHD and ODD. She was just-rediagnosed with AS. Although she doesn't fit the classic picture, she definately didn't fit ADHD. I see more of her behavior being AS than anyhting we have been able to find. She didn't respond to ANY medications for ADHD or ODD and she has tried many. All I can tell you is to keep trying different doctors until you find one you trust and agree with and that will listen to you. No one knows your child better than you do. Follow your gut instinct. If the diagnosis doesn't sound right, move on. It took us 2 years to get this diagnosis and four doctors, but it was worth it to get her the right treatment! Good luck.