Receiving an autism diagnosis for your child can bring a wave of emotions: relief in having answers, uncertainty about next steps, and even a sense of overwhelm. You are not alone in this journey. While there is no single “right” path to take, there are many ways to build a support system to honor your child’s unique strengths and needs. With the right support in place, your child can thrive – and so can you!
First Steps
The first step parents should take after receiving their child’s autism diagnosis is to decide what they want support to look like. There is no one right direction to take after the diagnosis. You, as the parent, get to build your child’s team. This team may include:
- Mental health clinicians to work directly with the child, to support the child and parents together, or for direct parental support
- Speech and language pathologists
- Occupational therapists
- Physical therapy
- Creative arts therapies- such as music therapy
- Small groups, such as the social learning groups we offer at Puzzle Pieces
Neurodiversity-Affirming Approach to Autism Support
A neurodiversity-affirming approach to autism support prioritizes respecting and embracing neurological differences rather than trying to “fix” or change an individual to fit a neurotypical mold. It is strength-based, acknowledges all forms of communication as valid, and respects sensory differences. This approach is important because it fosters self-acceptance, confidence, and emotional well-being in children with autism. When children are being supported in ways that support their natural development, they thrive. They build meaningful relationships, develop self-advocacy skills, and grow in ways that feel authentic to them.
Therapy Options
With so many therapy options, it can be overwhelming for parents to know where to start when choosing the best fit for their child. At Puzzle Pieces, we offer a variety of therapy services including:
- DIRFloortime Therapy
- Mental Health Therapy
- Occupational Therapy
- Speech and Language Therapy
- Small Groups
- Parent Supports
To determine which therapies are the best fit for your child, we recommend thinking about what the biggest challenge is and starting there. If you’re not sure, talk to a member of our team. They’ll be able to help point you in the right direction!
Building a Support System at Home and in Your Community
It can feel isolating after an autism diagnosis, but finding others who understand what you are going through can be a game changer. To start, we encourage open communication with your friends and family. Talk with family members about your child’s needs, strengths, and challenges, and give your loved ones grace while they work to understand what all of this means. If you have a co-parent, be sure to keep open communication about the division of responsibilities so no one person is carrying the load alone. You should be able to lean on each other! Schedule regular check-ins to discuss parenting wins and challenges, and make space to take care of yourself.
Connecting with like-minded parents in your community can also boost your support system as a parent. Join a support group like Moms Navigating Neurodiversity, which provides a safe space to share experiences, ask questions, and receive emotional support. Join your local SEPAC (Special Education Parent Advisory Council) to meet with other parents in your town who are on similar journeys.
Advocating for Your Child at School
As a parent, it is important to understand your child’s rights. Familiarize yourself with what an IEP and 504 plan mean and request that your child be evaluated for school services early and in writing. Remember, the school and these professionals are part of your team! Build strong relationships with them and know they have your child’s best interest in mind.
Before team meetings with the school, be sure to write down your questions and concerns so you don’t forget. Bring a support person with you to these meetings, too. You can bring anyone who feels supportive to you – even your Puzzle Pieces therapist! If you’re not sure about something, don’t feel pressured to sign anything. Document everything, including all communication with the school.
Why Puzzle Pieces
At Puzzle Pieces, we are proud to be a resource for you, your child, and your family. We listen to your needs, make sure you feel heard, and use evidence-based practices to ensure the utmost level of care. We want your family to function at its best, and therefore family is at the center of everything we do at Puzzle Pieces. Our families stay with us through the years and we get to know them personally. Once you are a client, you’re a member of our community.
Our goal is for you as a client to feel supported, satisfied, and lighter than when you entered our doors. We will help you every step of the way. Contact us today to learn more about how we can support your family.