Bay Area public schools? (autism, Asperger, child, kids)

[zinnie99]

Recently my 4 year old son has been diagnosed with autism. He mainly has social issues and speech delays. Although more tests are needed to see where on the spectrum he is, I do know that emotionally he is like a 1.5 year old. They told me each school district is different in dealing with special need children. What is the best way to go about researching public schools? Are there any moms out there with good/bad experiences with a certain school district specifically elementary schools? Any advice would be greatly appreciated. thanks.

[NoLoveLost]

Originally Posted by zinnie99

Recently my 4 year old son has been diagnosed with autism. He mainly has social issues and speech delays. Although more tests are needed to see where on the spectrum he is, I do know that emotionally he is like a 1.5 year old. They told me each school district is different in dealing with special need children. What is the best way to go about researching public schools? Are there any moms out there with good/bad experiences with a certain school district specifically elementary schools? Any advice would be greatly appreciated. thanks.

Sorry I am not in California, but you may want to start here:

Special Education Resources - Services & Resources (CA Dept of Education)

I do have twins with Autism and Fragile X so I know what it is like to deal with the school system, but I am in Washington so there may be differences in how things are done. However I would sugest you check out his place:

Asperger Syndrome

Barb Kirby and Patty both are very well known in the world of autism. They have a forum that is very active for parents with children with Autism/ Aspergers and there are parents from all over so you are bound to find some who know where to direct you.

hope this helps

[zinnie99]

Thanks for the info. I'll check it out!

[Ann in Oriental]

Back in the 60's I did years of volunteer work during high school. The facility was called Penninsula Childrens Center, based in Palo Alto or Menlo Park. It was one of the first of its kind for autism, back when almost no one knew what it was. We had kids from 6 thru 13. All day program lots of volunteers and social workers and teachers. Look around and see if it still exists, it was GREAT!