The Neurodevelopmental Conditions and Autism Program at the Nicklaus Children's Hospital is internationally recognized and offers a comprehensive care program for neurodevelopmental and cognitive conditions in children referred from all over the world. In the United States, approximately 1 in 6 children aged 3 to 17 years in diagnosed with a neurodevelopmental condition including but not limited to autism, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, and intellectual disability.

The program at Nicklaus Children's also coordinates with specialized medical and allied healthcare professionals, behavioral, physical, occupational and speech-and-language therapists, educational organizations, volunteer programs and parent support organizations to support each child.

Conditions We Treat

• Attention Deficit and Learning Disorders (ADHD)
• Autism
• Learning Disorders and Disabilities

What is Autism?

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by social and communication deficits for age, and excessive restrictive-repetitive behaviors and/or interests. People with ASD may also have differences in learning, motor skills and behavioral regulation. It is important to note that some people without ASD may also exhibit some of these symptoms, but for people with ASD these characteristics can make daily life very challenging.

Autism Facts

• Autism impacts the expected development of the brain in the areas of social interaction, communication skills, and cognitive function.
• Individuals with autism typically have difficulties in verbal and non-verbal communication, social interactions, and leisure or play activities.
• In the United States, 1 out of 36 children will be diagnosed with ASD by 8 years of age.
• Males are four times more likely to have an ASD than females.
• Autism greatly varies from person to person: No two people with autism are alike, and functional impact ranges from very mild to severe.
• Children with autism do progress – early identification and intervention is key.

Does my child have ASD?

Who should be evaluated for ASD or related disorders? Children who exhibit all of the following developmental and behavioral characteristics:

• Delayed communication skills and/or difficulty with social communication and understanding
• Difficulty understanding social cues and/or lack of interest in socially engaging with others, particularly age-matched peers
• Excessive restrictive interests and/or engagement in ritualized or repetitive activities

ASD Evaluations

• The first step for parents seeking care and assistance for their children is a full evaluation by a physician – either a pediatric neurologist, developmental-behavioral pediatrician or psychiatrist specializing in ASD. The physician will obtain a detailed medical history and perform a thorough physical and neurological examination.
• Further medical work up such EEG, brain imaging and/or genetic and metabolic testing may be recommended.
• A consultation with a psychologist specializing in ASD is occasionally recommended. This may include an expanded assessment including a standardized behavioral assessments, cognitive testing, and additional evaluations for other conditions that can be associated with or mistaken for ASD.
• Once the evaluation is complete, the physician will meet with the family to discuss and explain results.

Treatment options for ASD

For children identified as having ASD or associated disorders, ongoing management and support may include:

• Psychological intervention including behavioral therapy or modification
• Speech and language, occupational and/or physical therapy
• Treatment with medication
• Educational recommendations to meet the child’s needs
• Referral to support groups and extracurricular activities

What is ADHD?

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is the most common behavioral disorder of childhood. The three main ADHD symptoms in children can include inattention, hyperactive and impulsive behaviors. These traits can lead to behavioral and learning difficulties in school, challenging social interactions with other children and adults, and low self-esteem. Associated disorders can include anxiety, depression, difficult behaviors (oppositional defiant disorder), tics and learning disabilities.

Does my child have ADHD?

Children who exhibit any of the following behavioral characteristics may be a candidate for evaluation by a team of professionals:

Inattention

• Fails to pay close attention to details or makes careless mistakes
• Has difficulty maintaining attention in tasks or play activities
• Does not seem to listen when spoken to directly
• Does not follow directions and fails to complete schoolwork, chores or, in adolescents, on-the-job duties
• Has difficulty organizing tasks or activities
• Avoids or dislikes tasks that require sustained mental effort (such as schoolwork or homework)
• Is easily distracted
• Is often forgetful in daily activities

Hyperactivity

• Excessively fidgets with hands or feet or squirms in seat
• Leaves seat in classroom or in other situations in which remaining seated is expected
• Runs or climbs excessively when inappropriate
• Has difficulty playing or engaging in leisure activities quietly
• Is always on the go or acts is if “driven by motor”
• Often talks excessively
• In adolescents, may be exhibited by feelings of restlessness

Impulsivity

• Blurts out answers before questions have been completed
• Has difficulty waiting his/her turn
• Interrupts or intrudes on others (for example, butts into conversations or games)
• Is easily angered and can have aggressive or disruptive behavioral outbursts

ADHD Evaluations

The first step for parents seeking care and assistance for their children is a full evaluation by a physician – either a pediatric neurologist, developmental-behavioral pediatrician or psychiatrist specializing in ADHD. The physician will obtain a detailed medical history and perform a thorough physical and neurological examination.

A consultation with a psychologist specializing in ADHD is occasionally recommended. This may include standardized behavioral assessments, cognitive testing, and additional evaluations for other conditions that can be associated with or mistaken for ADHD.

Once the evaluation is complete, the physician will meet with the family to discuss and explain results.

Treatment options for ADHD

For children identified as having ADHD or associated disorders, ongoing management and support, may include:

• Psychological intervention  including behavioral therapy or modification
• Treatment with medication
• Educational recommendations  to meet the child’s needs
• Referral to support groups and extracurricular activities

Autism Friendly Partner

The Center for Autism & Related Disabilities (CARD) at the University of Miami and Nova Southeastern University, South Florida’s leading resource for autism support, designates Nicklaus Children’s Hospital as an Autism Friendly Partner. CARD’s Autism Friendly Initiative's goal is to create more inclusive places within the community for individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and their families.