First Steps
Hearing that your child has a challenge is never, ever easy. All of us are upset and scared and most of us ask the same questions: Do we know for sure 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
You may be the kind of person who doesn’t like to say much in public, but you are now 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
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.
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.
@2022 START HERE