Starting Point Behavioral Healthcare - Hilliard Drop - In Center

The simple answer is: whenever you’re ready. You are your child’s greatest advocate and protector. It’s okay if you don’t have all the answers, or aren’t able to perfectly explain everything. You can still educate those around you about your child’s autism when you have the energy to do so. Check out our complete guide for examples and tips.

Teach and practice calming strategies with your child. Helping your child learn how to manage their emotions and reactions is very important. Teach your child different ways they can calm down and relax, such as:

• Deep breathing, counting to 10, using sensory toys (like squishy balls or putty), going for a walk, listening to music
• Build "relaxation time" into their normal routines and schedules
• Practice these when your child is happy and calm so that later, when they’re highly stressed, they can access these skills

For more expert tips, check out our meltdowns guide.

Yes, a psychiatrist is a good person to speak with regarding medication for your child. While you might have an idea of what might work for your child, it’s best to have a conversation with a medical professional, such as a psychiatrist. What works for one autistic child may not work for another, so consider your child’s individual needs and goals. 

If you’d like to explore prescription medications or supplements for your child, weigh your options and concerns with your child’s medical team and create a plan. Discuss developments and side effects with your child’s doctor and adjust as needed.

“Early Intervention” might be the provider’s way of describing services that they provide to babies or young children. However, it might also indicate that the provider is a vendor for your state’s publicly funded program. This means the services with this provider might be covered by your state! 

The first step in accessing these free services from your state is to get an evaluation. The evaluation will help the state determine what services your child qualifies for, if any. You can find your state’s local EI program by clicking here.

When you contact your local center, say “I have concerns about my child’s development and I would like to have my child evaluated to find out if they are eligible for early intervention services.” They will ask screening questions and arrange for an evaluation, which is provided for free.

If you’re not sure where to start, this article lists 6 types of housing to be on the lookout for. Your child’s school and other parents are great resources to find out about potential options. Local groups, like your area’s Arc chapter, autism society, or special needs groups on social media, are good places to find resources as well. For additional help, consider working with a social worker and/or case manager.

If your child does not qualify, you can ask your school to evaluate your child for a 504 plan. This article provides more information about the differences between IEPs and 504s.

This happens. The results of the school’s evaluation may be different than your child’s medical diagnosis. It’s also important to remember that school is NOT the final say on your child’s potential. They may offer very little support to your child, underestimate their abilities, or disagree with you on what support your child needs. You will probably need to advocate for the services and support you believe your child needs.