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.