Autism Spectrum Disorder
What to do when first receiving a diagnosis of autism for your child?
When your child is first diagnosed with autism, it can be a difficult and overwhelming time. Here are a few things that may be helpful to do after receiving a diagnosis of autism:
Learn as much as you can about autism: Understanding the condition and what it means for your child can help you make informed decisions about their care and support. There are a number of reputable sources of information about autism, such as the Autism Society of America, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and the Autism Research Institute.
Connect with other families: Talking to other parents of children with autism can be a valuable source of support and information. There are a number of online and in-person support groups for families of children with autism, where you can connect with other parents who understand what you are going through.
Find the right professionals: There are a number of professionals who can help support your child, including developmental pediatricians, speech therapists, occupational therapists, and behavior therapists. It is important to find the right professionals to meet your child’s specific needs.
Look into therapy and educational options: There are a number of therapies and educational approaches that can help children with autism, such as applied behavior analysis (ABA) and developmental, individual-difference, relationship-based approach (DIR Floortime). Research the different options available in your area, and speak to professionals to determine which might be the best fit for your child.
Get organized: Keep track of important information, appointments, and communication with different professionals by keeping an organized binder or electronic folder. This can help you stay on top of everything and feel more in control.
Take care of yourself: Caring for a child with autism can be demanding, so it is important to take care of yourself as well. Make sure to take time for yourself, and seek out support when you need it.
It’s important to know that an autism diagnosis is not a life sentence for your child, With the right support, children with autism can make great strides and live fulfilling lives.