Preschool Child Care issues

Q: What can I do for my boys? They are 3 and 4 years old and have both been kicked out of two preschools because of biting. They seem to go in and out of stages where they are biting other kids. My 4-year-old bites himself as well. I think it's to manipulate me or get his teacher to give in to him. He also hits his head hard against the wall.

The preschool thinks there is something wrong with them, and they said they think they could have autism. Their dad and I are constantly talking to them, trying to teach them -- and a lot of times they don't listen. They get into everything or run from us. They also scream and throw temper tantrums.

A: When a child bites himself and hits his head, it generally indicates an emotional or neurological problem. These actions are not used to control parents or teachers but are often the symptoms of a disorder. It is very important to get an accurate diagnosis of the boy's problems. This allows you to discover the services, support and treatments available.

Make an appointment with their pediatrician and report to the doctor the events you are describing. Ask for a complete physical and mental examination. The spectrum of autistic disorders is difficult to diagnose and usually requires a specialist who is familiar with diagnosing and treating this problem.

Call your public school district office and request help in determining whether your sons have special educational needs. In most states, including California, school districts are required to assess educational requirements of preschool-age children with special needs. The district conducts testing to identify disorders and the needs of students.

Regardless of the diagnoses of the boys' problems, you have to meet the challenge of helping them control their behavior. Treatment for most behavioral disorders involves structured behavioral training. Contact a community agency that offers parent education and enroll in a program. Most YWCAs, school districts and county regional centers offer parent-training programs. The earlier you begin treatment and training for the boys, the easier it will be for them. You also will benefit from learning how to handle their challenging behavior.

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