newly diagnosed

I'm the mom of a nonverbal 5 year old little boy with autism. When he was that age he often ignored me as well but what we did was use PECS(Picture Exchange Communication System)and eventually he picked that up and while no he did not verbalize anything he was still communicating. I'd also recommend using sign language with your daughter, some children have great success with it. Do not worry it will not delay the ability to acquire spoken language. I know it easier said than done but be patient as in time things will start to emerge. Focus on what she can do instead of what she can't and try to find ways to develop a communication repertoire with her.

I would highly recommend seeing a BCBA even if its for a consultation. As the mom above said start to develop signs. Is she pointing or reaching for items or things she wants? If yes great, if not this is a first. It may require you teaching her hand over hand to reach or point at first but then you can fade your prompt. Also eye contact needs to be worked on...when she comes to you wanting you to take her to get something she wants does she look at you? These are basic ways of communication, eye contact and pointing/gesturing that can give you something to work on...then build up from there. hope that helps

My son also has PDD-NOS and is 3 1/2 years old he was enrolled in the early Intervention program since he turned 2. Because of delayed speech. With their help and us working with him at 2 and 1/2 he had a language burst and now is using complete sentences. Don't give up, READ,READ,READ to her as much as possible. Interact with her as much as possible, continue applying what the therapists want you to do with her. She may show no interrest, but be patient as she gets older it will come as long as you don't give up. Also, once my son started pre-school (Special Ed) being around other kids, with routined schedules he blossomed and in 1 year has come a long way from being rigid, and fearful to open, comfortable and flexible wanting to try new things and play. Limit television and really try to engage her as much as possible, sign language helps many parents we used some of the basic words to begin, like hungry, drink, more, sleepy ect. Good luck and have faith (-;