Newly Diagnosed
Parents of children who have just been diagnosed with an Autism Spectrum Disorder often feel both devastated and panicked. How did this happen? What does it mean? And what are they going to do now? In this section, we address some of the issues most on the minds of parents in this situation.
- It's Not Your Fault
- You're Not Alone
- Getting a Handle On It: Educating Yourself
- Prioritizing and Taking Action
- Becoming Your Child's Advocate
- Caring For Yourself
- Participating in Research: Being Part of the Long-Term Solution
Some Important Resources...
Autism Speaks provides two very helpful publications to assist families who have just received an autism spectrum diagnosis for their child. The First 100 Day Kit and the Asperger Syndrome and High Functioning Autism Tool Kit are available here.
The Organization for Autism Research (OAR) also offers some excellent publications, including A Parent's Guide to Assessment, An Educator's Guide to Autism, and An Educator's Guide to Asperger Syndrome, all available here.
Related Articles
Frequently Asked Questions About Autism Spectrum Diagnoses
Catherine Lord, Director of the University of Michigan Autism and Communication Disorders Center, answers some of parents' most urgent questions about Autism Spectrum diagnoses.
Very Late Diagnosis of Asperger's Syndrome
Professor Simon Baron-Cohen and his colleagues discuss the "lost generation" --those with Asperger's who grew up before the diagnosis existed. They describe a unique program designed to help diagnose and assist these adults, helping them to understand themselves as well as to access services and support.
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