On the Spectrum: Do These 4 Things If You Suspect Your Child Might Be Autistic
Awareness of autism spectrum disorders (ASD) has increased considerably in recent years. Consequently, parents can often identify developmental issues in their children at a younger age, when professional intervention would be most effective. If you believe your child may be on the spectrum, pursue these four contacts to obtain a firm diagnosis and a practical path.
1. Primary care physician
Coming to grips with a potential autism diagnosis can be difficult for parents. As such, your first contact should be your child’s trusted primary caregiver. If none is available, contact a pediatrician near you for professional advice and referrals.
The doctor will conduct an in-depth discussion with the parents regarding the child’s progress. Pediatricians can also perform necessary assessments of the child to diagnose ASD, such as a thorough physical and neurological exam, review of cognitive and speech abilities, and observation of the child’s behavior.
As there are no blood tests or X-rays to determine ASD, a precise diagnosis is not possible. Autism is a spectrum because there is a wide range of behaviors that are displayed differently in every child.
2. Specialist
If the primary caregiver believes your child may be on the spectrum, contact an autism specialist immediately. A team of medical professionals, consisting of specialty pediatricians, pediatric neurologists, child psychologists or psychiatrists, physical or speech therapists, and audiologists, will conduct a more comprehensive assessment. This team will also work closely with the parents to ensure understanding and acceptance.
When your pediatrician cannot make a specialist recommendation, conduct your research to include your state’s website, which will have links to autism diagnosis and assessment professionals in your area. Your insurance likely covers the specialist’s services, but be sure to ask first.
3. Professional services
The ASD specialists may not make an immediate diagnosis, although they likely will share their preliminary thoughts. It is not necessary to wait for the specialist’s final report before pursuing services for your child.
The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) requires each state to provide free and appropriate education for children diagnosed with autism. For children under three years old suspected of being autistic, ask the ASD specialist for a recommendation for early intervention services. Professionals providing these services include development, speech, physical, and occupational therapists. The treatments can happen in your home, at the child’s daycare center, or in other locations such as a doctor’s office. If the specialist cannot provide a referral, check out your state’s website for further information.
4. Special Education
Autistic children over three years old qualify for special education services through their local school district. The special education staff will evaluate as a medical diagnosis of autism alone does not guarantee eligibility for special education.
Once the program accepts the student, the special educator may collaborate with the parents to develop an individualized education program (IEP) for the child. The local school system implements the IEP. This plan may include the type of therapists the child has interacted with previously and a classroom aide to assist with behavioral issues.
If the child does not qualify for an IEP, they may be eligible for assistance in a regular classroom through a 504 education plan.
Identification and diagnosis of autism spectrum disorders in your child can be a very stressful and overwhelming time. These four steps will make the process manageable and ensure the best treatment and education for your child.