After countless doctor’s visits, screenings, and formal evaluations, your child has finally received their autism diagnosis. Finally having an answer brings a flood of relief, but you’re likely totally overwhelmed too. It’s normal for parents to ask, “What happens after an autism diagnosis?” Here’s a few steps parents can take:
- Learn more about your child’s autism diagnosis
- Find a support group
- Research treatment options
- Talk to your child’s teachers/caregivers
- Create a daily routine
- Celebrate small victories
As a pediatric therapy center and ABA clinic, we’ve helped countless families navigate their autism diagnosis so their child achieves the best outcomes possible. We’ve also seen plenty of parents who have no idea what to do once they get the diagnosis. So, let’s dive into the first steps you can take to help your child and the rest of your family through this transition:
Step 1: Learn More About Your Child’s Autism Diagnosis
According to the CDC, one in 31 children under the age of eight were diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in 2022. However, this does not mean that every child had the same symptoms or received the same treatment. Every child is different, which means every child’s autism diagnosis will present itself differently. Still, many parents will ask, “What are the main 5 symptoms of autism I should look out for?” Generally speaking, the most common signs of autism in children include:
- Challenges with communication
- Restricted or repetitive behaviors or interests
- Delayed language, movement, cognitive, or learning development
- Hyperactive, impulsive, and/or inattentive behavior
- Unusual emotional reactions
You know your child and their behavior best, but with an autism diagnosis it’s still wise to speak with doctors, therapists, and even other parents of autistic children to learn more about the condition. The more you understand ASD and how it specifically affects your child, the better you will be able to advocate for your kid. It will also put you in contact with people who can help you through the emotional challenges of your child’s autism diagnosis.
Step 2: Find a Support Group
Your child’s autism diagnosis doesn’t just affect them; it affects your entire family as you adjust to this reality. After you get the official diagnosis, it’s normal to experience many different emotions. You might feel overwhelmed, confused, and relieved all at once. Be kind to yourself and know that you don’t have to navigate this new chapter of your child’s life alone. Look for a support group in person or online for parents with kids who have been diagnosed with ASD. This will give you a safe space to share your experiences and hear from other parents facing similar issues. Not only will this provide the emotional support you need, but these groups can be a great place to hear about new treatments or activities that can help your child.
Step 3: Research Treatment Options
There are countless treatment options available for children with autism and many different therapy centers that offer this in-depth support. Before you pick a therapist or therapy center, you need to ensure it is the right fit for your child. Look for centers that offer multiple therapies that work together to help your child, use evidence-based practices, and have experienced pediatric specialists. Additionally, it’s wise to have at least a basic understanding of common treatment options for autism diagnoses. Here are five programs and therapies that may help your child:
- ABA Therapy: Applied behavioral analysis therapy helps children build communication, behavior, and social skills in supportive and structured ways.
- Occupational Therapy: Helps children develop sensory integration, fine motor skills, and daily living abilities.
- Speech Therapy: Supports language development, speech sound disorders, and social communication skills.
- Executive Functioning Programs: Helps children improve focus, organization, emotional control, and school readiness skills.
- Customized Home Treatment Programs: Provides parents with practical strategies to help their child in challenging areas that fit their real life and daily routines.
Great autism therapy clinics will offer all of these programs and use them to customize a plan for your child. The more information you have on the types of therapy offered, the better you will be able to spot ineffective therapy centers and ensure you find the right kind of support for your child.
Step 4: Talk to Your Child’s Teachers and Caregivers
While therapy is a powerful tool to help children with autism, most of a child’s day will not be spent with a therapist. School age children spend more time on average with their teachers or caregivers than they do with their parents. So, when asking “What happens after an autism diagnosis?”, it’s critical to coordinate with your child’s teachers or caregivers. It will take their buy-in and participation to ensure your child receives consistent support no matter where they are.
After all, you can’t be with them 24/7, but you can provide great care for them. Speak to your child’s teachers and/or caregivers as soon as possible about the autism diagnosis and your child’s needs. As your child grows and participates in pediatric therapy, their needs will change. The strategies you use to help your child’s development will also change over time. It is a great idea to set a regular rhythm (maybe monthly or quarterly) to sit down with your child’s teacher or caregiver. This time can be used to learn about how your child is doing away from home, collaborate on caregiving and learning, and provide new strategies you’ve learned from your child’s therapy team.
Some teachers or schools experienced in helping children with autism may even offer individual education programs (IEPs) to give your child the specialized attention they need. Additionally, make sure your child’s healthcare team is knowledgeable about autism. Their expertise will be invaluable in treating your child for regular ailments and recommending therapies to help them develop. It takes a village to raise a child; that is doubly true for raising a child with an autism diagnosis.
Step 5: Create a Daily Routine
All children can benefit from a regular routine, but this is especially true for children with autism. Create a structured routine and a visual board where your child can see what their day is going to look like. This provides a sense of stability for you and your child which can help reduce anxiety and prepare your family for transitions. When children know what to expect, they are less likely to lash out when it’s time for a change. Just remember to be flexible as your routine is going to change unexpectedly. That’s a part of raising any child. But when you have a routine, you and your child know what is expected of the day and can get back on track much easier than if you didn’t have a schedule.
Step 6: Celebrate Small Victories
Navigating your child’s autism diagnosis and helping them develop necessary skills to become functioning members of society can feel overwhelming at times. It’s easy for you and your child to become discouraged, which is why celebrating even the smallest victories is so important. This helps motivate you and your child to keep giving your best, and it even boosts your kid’s self-esteem. So, the next time your child shows improved communication, has a positive social interaction, manages their sensory sensitivities well, or achieves a behavioral milestone, try the following celebration tips:
- Specific praise: Compliment your child on the exact thing they did well. For example, “You asked for help with words! I’m proud you talked to me.”
- Use a sticker chart: Give your child a sticker every time they complete a task or reach a new milestone to make it a fun experience for them. When they’ve collected enough stickers, you can…
- Offer a reward your child enjoys: Celebrate milestones immediately with a favorite snack, extra playtime, or a special activity they enjoy.
Children with autism may need additional time to learn skills, pick up information, or change behaviors. Consistent, immediate, and positive feedback is critical to their learning process. For these children, they often do not fully understand multi-step processes and delayed gratification. By celebrating small victories and individual steps in a process, you can help them learn the way they do best.
Above all else, celebrating your child’s achievements should resonate with them. Make sure you pick something simple yet special that you can do whenever a new milestone is reached and that your child will enjoy. This encourages your child to repeat the positive behavior and their smile at the reward will help keep you going.
Still Not Sure What’s Next? The TEACH Group is Here to Help
Your child’s autism diagnosis is the first step on their journey to navigate the rest of their lives. And the good news is you don’t have to help them through this alone. The TEACH Group offers a wide range of therapies and support aimed at helping your child develop after receiving their autism diagnosis. Contact us today to speak with one of our experts and see how our custom treatment plans can help.
“What Happens After an Autism Diagnosis?” and Other FAQs
What happens after an autism diagnosis?
What happens after an autism diagnosis typically includes therapy recommendations, school planning, and ongoing evaluations. Families often begin services like ABA, speech, or occupational therapy.
What are the 5 main symptoms of autism?
Common signs include communication challenges, repetitive behaviors, developmental delays, difficulty with focus or attention, and unusual emotional responses.
How do I know which therapies are right for my child’s autism diagnosis?
After an autism diagnosis, your child’s care team will recommend therapies based on their strengths and challenges. It’s important to choose evidence-based programs tailored to your child.
What happens after an autism diagnosis in school settings?
Schools may create an Individualized Education Program (IEP) or provide accommodations. This ensures your child receives the support they need to succeed academically and socially.
How early should therapy start after an autism diagnosis?
The sooner, the better. Early intervention after an autism diagnosis can significantly improve communication, behavior, and social skills.
What is the hardest age for autism?
Many parents ask, “what is the hardest age for autism?” This varies, but early childhood and transitions like starting school or puberty can be particularly challenging due to developmental and social changes.
Can my child live a normal life after an autism diagnosis?
Yes. With the right support and therapies, many children with an autism diagnosis grow into independent, successful adults. Every journey is unique.
What support is available for parents after an autism diagnosis?
There are support groups, parent training programs, therapists, and online communities. These resources help parents navigate “child autism diagnosis what next” with confidence.
Will my child’s symptoms change over time after an autism diagnosis?
Yes, symptoms can evolve. With therapy and support, many children improve communication, social interaction, and daily living skills over time.
How do I advocate for my child after an autism diagnosis?
Learn about your rights, stay involved in therapy and school planning, and communicate regularly with professionals. Advocacy is key after an autism diagnosis.
