Pathway Pediatrics

An autism diagnosis can cause a mix of emotions for a family. On one hand, you may finally have the answers you’ve been searching for to get your child the help they need. On the other, you now have the task of learning everything you can to best help your child live their life to the fullest. There is so much information, and misinformation, about autism available. Where do you even start?

General Information

One of the best resources for general autism information, and a great place to begin your research, is Autism Speaks. Autism Speaks is an organization dedicated to “creating an inclusive world for all individuals with autism throughout their lifespan… through advocacy, services, supports, research and innovation, and advances in care for autistic individuals and their families“.

Newly diagnosed families would benefit from their “Newly Diagnosed” page, including their 100 Day Kit for Young Children or the 100 Day Kit for School Age Children. These kits are designed to help newly diagnosed families make the best use of the first 100 days after an autism diagnosis by providing information on autism signs, symptoms, treatments, available services, and lifestyle and education changes needed to help your autistic child thrive.

Local Resources

For families in the state of Alabama there is the Regional Autism Network from the Alabama Department of Mental Health. “The Regional Autism Network (RAN) serves those who have questions, concerns, or resource needs regarding themselves, a family member, friend, client, patient, or student with diagnosed or suspected Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).” There are 5 RAN sites located in five regions of Alabama where families can talk to experts in ASD.

Regional Autism Network More Information

Regional Autism Network Más Información en Español

Alabama also has the Alabama Disabilities Advocacy Program (ADAP), a federally funded program that “provides legal services to Alabamians with disabilities to protect, promote, and expand their rights“. Part of the ADAP’s services include assistance with special education information, referral, case advocacy, training, and other resources. Additionally, the ADAP has a book, Special Education in Alabama: A Right Not a Favor, available for free on their website.

If you need to contact your child’s school regarding special education services but you’re unsure of how to begin, the Center for Parent Information and Resources has a model letter and additional information available to help you get started.

The first few months after a life altering diagnosis can be frightening and overwhelming. There is so much new information to learn and so many changes and decisions to be made, it can seem impossible to get started. Your pediatrician is available to provide support and resources to get you started on your autism journey and will stay with you along the way to ensure that you and your child are healthy and thriving in your new normal.