My son has autism and adhd - what's the best approach to dealing with both?

Find experienced ped: There is not a 'best approach' to treating children with autism or adhd. Everything must be individualized-because like snowflakes, no two children are alike. I determine what the most problematic symptoms of adhd and autism are, and then work to manage it. Treatment may include parent training, behavior modification, and medication.

Specialist needed: I recommend your son be evaluated and treated by a specialist who has completed fellowship training in child & adolescent psychiatry. In general, my own approach is to focus treatment initially on obtaining optimal control and improvement of autism symptoms. Then, re-evaluate the need for additional treatment focused on remaining adhd symptoms.