Just Diagnosed - Turning Pointe Autism Foundation
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Just Diagnosed
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Just Diagnosed

Your child getting diagnosed with autism can elicit a wide range of emotions including but not limited to – overwhelmed, anxious, sad, relieved, and more. Know that everything you are feeling is valid. Also know that your child is the same amazing child they were before the diagnosis, but now you know more about their unique brain and how they view the world! Here are some tips as you start to navigate through this journey.

  • If you have not received one already, ask for a comprehensive report from where you received the diagnosis. This will help you prioritize therapies and interventions based on your child’s current strengths and challenges.

  • Ask all of your questions! No question is too big or too small, and you can ask it as many times as you need.

  • Many autistic children have a tendency to elope or wander off alone. If this is a concern for your child, create a safety plan by notifying your neighbors, school, and local first responders. Also consider having your child wear an identification bracelet. You can find more safety information on AWAARE’s website here.

  • If you have other children, it’s important that they also understand what autism is and what it means for your family. As your children continue to grow, develop, and learn, they may continue to come up with new questions – let them know that you are always open to a conversation about autism.

  • Remember, you know your child best! There is a lot of support and resources available for you to explore and decide what is best for your family.

Here are some books that help explain autism in child friendly ways:

1. Nathan’s Autism Spectrum Superpowers

2. All My Stripes –
A Story For Children
With Autism

3. My Big Brother Ben – An Autism Spectrum Super Story

4. Meet The Overs and Unders – An Activity Book to Help Children Understand Their Sensory Needs

5. Autism in My
Family – A Journal for Siblings of Children
with ASD

6. Everybody is
Different – A Book for Young People Who
Have Brothers or
Sisters with Autism

As always, we recommend parents to preview books before reading them
with their children.

If your child is under 3 years old, you can access Early Intervention through a Child and Family Connections office to begin therapies. To find information about your local Child and Family Connections office, click here. (Office Type: Early Intervention)

If your child is over 3 years old, you can ask your school district in writing for a special education evaluation. This will help determine if your child is eligible for an Individualized Education Plan (IEP).

If you would like to enroll your child in PUNS, you can find your local Independent Service Coordination Agency here. (Office Type: Developmental Disability Services)

You can access our resource page HERE to explore more support.

If you would like to connect with Turning Pointe Autism Foundation’s Family Specialist, you can contact Mary at mbutler@turningpointeaf.org or (630) 615-6036

tpaf-color-medium
  1500 West Ogden Avenue

Naperville, IL 60540

  contactus@turningpointeaf.org

   630.570.7948

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Turning Pointe Autism Foundation is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization.

Turning Pointe Autism Foundation Foglia Family Adult Services is a Certified Autism Center by the IBCCES and the Adult Day Pilot is accredited by CARF.

Our organization does not discriminate in employment or the provision of educational services on the basis on race, color, religion, age, gender, national origin, disability, citizenship status, veteran status or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local law.

tpaf-color-medium
  1500 West Ogden Avenue

Naperville, IL 60540

  contactus@turningpointaft.org

   630.570.7948

4Star 234×60

Turning Pointe Autism Foundation is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization.

Turning Pointe Autism Foundation Foglia Family Adult Services is a Certified Autism Center by the IBCCES and the Adult Day Pilot is accredited by CARF.

Our organization does not discriminate in employment or the provision of educational services on the basis on race, color, religion, age, gender, national origin, disability, citizenship status, veteran status or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local law.

2021 Turning Pointe Autism Foundation. All Rights Reserved.