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First Steps

Hearing that your child has a challenge is not easy to hear. It may take some time to process what is happening, before action can be taken. Families could be uncertain of what is going on, and most of us ask the same questions: Do we know what’s going on? Will it get better or worse? What can we do about it? If you’re reading this, you’ve started getting informed and connecting to other parents. That’s a great first step.

GET INFORMED

What You Need To Know

Parents have their own ways of doing things, but that won’t stop anyone from telling you what you should and shouldn’t do. Nothing helps as much as getting informed — knowing what some of the language means, learning how to be an advocate, getting ready to work with the experts who will help meet your child’s needs.

HOW TO SPEAK UP

Being A Champion For Your Child

As a parent, you may be more reserved when it comes to speaking in public, but you are likely to be in situations where you need to let other people know what your child needs and even explain their challenges. These few suggestions can help you be better prepared and more comfortable.

WHATS NEW

Smart technologies are replacing the expensive adaptive devices of the past.
They’re getting better and often more affordable every day.

FIRST REACTIONS

You feel afraid

You want to know the cause

You worry about the future

You worry about how others will react

FIRST QUESTIONS

What are we talking about?

What’s next?

What’s important?

What now?

FIRST STEPS

Connect with other parents

Speak to your doctor

Form a care team

Give yourself time

GLOSSARY

WHAT IS AUTISM?

This is actually a range of different conditions, which is why you also hear the name Autism Spectrum Disorders. There is a lot we don’t know, but

WHAT’S NEW BLOG

Exploring resources, insights and shared experiences. Blog for parents, by parents. 

IFSP & IEP

An IFSP is for kids 3 years old and younger, and an IEP for anyone between 3 and 21. These plans explain the supports your child will be getting to help them build on their strengths and manage their challenges.

HOW TO STEP IT UP

Opening people’s minds, creating opportunities, raising expectations, taking chances, and working around barriers.

DEVELOPMENTAL MILESTONES

Not all children do new things at the exact same age,  but when a child is well behind in developing it can be a sign that you should visit a doctor.

FIGHTING THE GOOD FIGHT

Know what you are fighting for, choose your battles, join forces, raising an advocate, and identifying what’s standing in your way.

GLOSSARY

A guide to some of the terms and language used.

HEALTH AT HOME

Eating, sleeping, moving, relaxing, & connecting.

CARE MANAGEMENT

Every parent should understand what Managed Care Means. More here.

PRECISION CARE

Healthcare should start with an understanding of the particular person involved, otherwise it is not precise.

DOCTOR VISIT

Visiting the Doctor can be stressful. Here is a guide to before, during, and after the visit.

FRIENDS MATTER

Navigating the sometimes difficult world of finding and making friends.

               

@2022 START HERE

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