PDDNOS services?

Question

If you get a PDDNOS diagnosis, would you still be able to obtain services from local regional center & school dist in the LA county area? I heard only if you get a diagnosis of autism would get you the help you need, is that true? if so, what other options are there???

Answer 1

All services in public school districted are driven by educational relevancy. No matter what the diagnosis, if the person is doing well in school, services will not be given. Many PDD kids get services because they often have great difficulties understanding and expressing language and  they can't keep up with other kids. Just because the diagnosis is not autism does not mean that services will not be offered.

That being said, Many PDD people have very poor social behaviors. If this is getting in the way of learning and relating to other people, then this can be addressed with and IEP.

I would take the diagnosis to the school counselor and he or she will help you start the process for a referral for special education services. This process involves extensive testing for learning disabilities, language deficits, intelligence and any other related disabilities that may be present.

The child's label does not drive his or her placement. The child's needs determine placement.