New autism diagnosis

[Cinderelley]

Some of you may remember that one of my friends has a 3 year old daughter that was diagnosed with diabetes last Oct. They have now diagnosed her daughter with autism.

She had taken her to a developmental specialist, because she was concerned withher language development and repetition of some things. They did an evaluation and sent her home with things to read. That's it. Now she doesn't know where to go from here.

I know some people on here have done a wonderful job of raising children with autism. Any suggestions for her? It must be on the mild end of the spectrum, because she is doing wonderfully in her preschool program, if that would change any advice you have for her.

Thank you

[sportsguy2315]

Cinderelly, I have mild autism and would be more than willing to try to help your friend. PM me and we'll go from there.

[teambricker04]

They can talk to their daughter's pediatrian about services (every state is different on what is covered) and support. There is a few organizations that help to direct you where to go and get some of this as well as what to ask. As 3 is usually the age where children transition out of early intervention services to the school district, they may even contact the school district for support. At first it feels lonely, and then you find out there are TONS of places to meet other parents and children living with ASDs.

Good luck to your friends! And as a parent of a child with Autism, there is nothing they need more than caring friends like you!

[Georgesgirl1]

One of my good friend's little girl has apserger's and she says that the Autismspeaks.com blog has a lot of great info on it.

[Cinderelley]

Thanks everyone :) I knew you guys would have some good advice.

[BrerGnat]

To echo what others have said, the school district should be the first stop right now, so they can get special ed preschool services (free to the parents) set us a.s.a.p. Early intervention is incredibly important, and the sooner services start, the better! They should have to pay NOTHING for any services from here on out.

They may also want to do a WHOLE LOT of research online and in books. Knowledge is power, and the more you read and inform yourself, the more empowered you will be to get the right kind of help. I have two children on the spectrum, and it's all about knowing your kid and knowing where he/she needs help and then making sure he/she gets that help!

I'm leery of certain online "Autism support" sites. Many of them have an ulterior motive. The goal at this point shouldn't be trying to "cure" the child, but rather getting the child the help she needs to be a successful and independent member of society. There's no cure for autism, but there is hope for a better life than what our kids would have had in store years ago.