If you suspect Autism, don't delay taking action.

When you first think your child might have autism, it’s completely normal to feel scared, confused, or even heartbroken. You might wonder what it means for their future, or feel lost about where to start. That’s okay. Every parent wants their child to be happy and successful, and it’s hard when things don’t go as expected.

Taking that first step—talking to a doctor, asking questions, or getting an evaluation—can make a huge difference. The sooner you act, the sooner your child can get support that helps them grow, learn, and connect with other. Early therapies can make a positive impact in how your child communicates, play, socialize with others and handle the world around them. They can develop skills that will create greater independence and confidence over time.

Getting a diagnosis doesn’t put your child in a box—it helps open the right doors. You’re not giving up on them—you’re fighting for their future.

Document

Start keeping a detailed record of behaviors that concern you. Include things like:

Delayed speech or language
Lack of eye contact
Repetitive behaviors (e.g., hand flapping, lining up toys)
Unusual reactions to sounds, textures, or social situations
Difficulty with social interaction or play

Request an Evaluation

A comprehensive developmental evaluation, which may include:

Autism-specific screening tools (e.g., M-CHAT, ADOS-2)
Assessments of speech, cognitive skills, and motor development

This evaluation can be done through:

Developmental Pediatrician
Child Psychologist or Child Psychiatrists (outpatient or through school district)
Pediatric Neurologist

Start Services

Depending on your child’s age:

Under 3: Contact your state’s Early Intervention (EI) program. This service can be integrated in your child's daycare or preschool.
Age 3 or older: Contact your local school district’s Child Find or special education department
Find ABA program and get on their waiting lists

These services are free and can provide therapy (speech, occupational, behavioral) even before a formal diagnosis.

Build Support

Connect with other parents or support groups. Understanding autism will help you:

Advocate effectively for your child
Reduce your own anxiety
Begin to plan for long-term support

Start Early Intervention or Therapies Immediately

Don't wait for a formal diagnosis to begin support. If your child qualifies for services like speech therapy, occupational therapy (OT), Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA).

Start as soon as possible. Early support can significantly improve outcomes.

It's also important to stay organized because you will be coordinating medical and therapeutic care including academic. Staying organized will reduce stress and confusion.

Create a binder or digital folder with:

Medical and therapy records
Notes from evaluations
Service provider contacts
Progress reports

Take Care of Yourself and Your Family

Parenting a child with autism can be emotionally and physically demanding. Make time to:

Create a fulfilling social group of your own
Access counseling if you’re feeling overwhelmed
Spend quality time and create memories with your other children.

Remember this is a marathon not a sprint. It's okay to take breaks between therapies. Continue to evaluate how your child is doing and adjust when you need to.