First Steps

For 6 months to 36 months SEE LINK:

Early Intervention | Learn the Signs. Act Early. | CDC

You just got the diagnosis. You are probably feeling everything at once relief that you finally have an answer, grief for the future you imagined, fear of the unknown, and love so fierce it almost hurts. All of that is allowed. All of it is normal.

Here is what to focus on first:

Get the paperwork moving. Contact your local school district and request a free evaluation under IDEA (Individuals with Disabilities Education Act). This is your child's legal right from birth to age 21. Do not wait for the school to come to you, you have to request it in writing.

Find your therapy team. Ask for referrals to a speech therapist, occupational therapist, and behavioral therapist. Early intervention makes a significant difference the earlier the better, but it is never too late to start.

Connect with other parents. Find a local or online autism parent group. The parents who are a few years ahead of you will save you years of searching. They know the shortcuts, the resources, and the things nobody tells you at the diagnosis appointment.

Give yourself grace. You do not have to figure everything out this week. Start with one step. Then take the next one.