GENERAL RESEARCH
A study conducted by Ana Maria Gonzalez-Barrero and Aparna S. Nadig has found that, contrary to what was previously believed, learning 2 languages may in fact help children with ASD increase cognitive flexibility, allowing them to switch from one task to another more easily. Click here for more information!
OBSERVATOIRE DES TOUS PETITS
On January 31st 2019, Quebec Prime Minister François Legault and Health and Social Services Minister Lionel Carmant announced measures to improve the early detection and management of developmental delays in children before entering kindergarten.
A computer platform will give parents access to questionnaires to assess their child’s developmental profile leading them to, amongst other things, early detection of any disabilities (not just autism), the required services for early intervention in shorter delays and an additional 800 professional resources for families.
This comes as great news as it is important to remember that the period between birth and 3 years of age is crucial to the development of children. Click here for the full article.
HEALTHY SLEEP
https://www.facebook.com/destinationsleep
DENTISTRY
Dr. John Drummond and associates in Montreal West
Dr. Dixter Charles: 4141 Sherbrooke O, Westmount, H3Z-1B8, (514)934-0749
HAIR STYLISTS
Team members at the 4 Minimod locations are experienced with children with neuro-diversities and the facilities are equipped with screens and seats that look like cars to make getting a hair cut a fun experience. Always advise about your child’s sensitivities when booking an appointment in order to make sure you are paired with the stylist most experienced with your kiddo’s needs.
OPTOMETRY / OPHTHALMOLOGY
The Canadian Association of Optometrists recommends adults receive an eye exam every two years. Infants should have their first exam between six and nine months, while school-aged children and those over 65 should have one annually. In recognition of Vision Health Month, Ginette Petitpas, Minister of Health, urges Canadians to “make visiting an optometrist a part of their regular health routine”. https://www.canada.
According to the Canadian Association of Optometrists, if a child’s eye condition goes untreated, there could be an impact on his or her learning ability.
Most parents are diligent about taking their child to the pediatrician for annual appointments as well as the dentist but may not think about having their kids’ eyesight checked. Many parents will only bring their child to the eye doctor when there is an apparent abnormality. But seeing an optometrist should be part of the annual medical appointment routine for kids. Under Medicare, children under the age of 18 are entitled to a free annual eye examination.
During the appointment, the optometrist will conduct tests for ocular issues including myopia (
Before your child enters kindergarten, the school will ask that you have your child seen, but it is a great idea to do this annually. According to the Canadian Association of Optometrists, if a child’s eye condition goes untreated, there could be an impact on his or her learning ability.
Eye examination for children under 18, with experience with children with ASD or other neuro diversities:
Optometrist:
If your child does present with an anomaly, have your pediatrician refer you to:
Specialist Ophthalmologist
Dr. Robert Polomeno, 4095 Tupper St, Westmount, QC H3Z-3E5, (514)935-0966
