Early intervention is the most important thing a child with autism or on the spectrum your child needs to be able to cope and communicate and learn.

The first few years are vital when it comes to communication and other problems your child might have including sensory problems, motor skills, verbal skills. The quicker the diagnosis the more likely your child will get the help they need to get the most they can out of life.

Getting early intervention can be a very long and stressful wait that’s where I hope First steps autism will help. Here is a bit of information about what kind of programs are out there, what to look for and what early intervention is.

Early intervention is a term used to describe a range of different programs

for children under six years of age.

 

Different countries and states have a range of programs and options. Here are some options I recommend you start off doing if you believe your child might have autism:

 

The best thing I can suggest is talk to your pediatrician, use your local council, or word of mouth to find specialized programs. Even ask your nearest allied health care about programs in your area. 

Examples:

Programs based in a center, programs in mainstream pre school, Programs that have been

co-ordinated by parents or carers that are experienced/ researched.

In clinics with special therapies.

Some agencies arrange for early intervention workers to come to your home

On a regular basis for home visits.

 

There are a lot of support services for parents, we all need someone to talk to and a lot of support, especially through the stress and processing. The fact that our child has autism or is on the spectrum can be stressful, so talk to your doctor about any services that are out there for you.