As a parent, you’ve learned the importance of finding the best pediatrician, babysitter, and friends for your toddler. Now, with a diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) newly introduced to your life, it’s time to look for the right early intervention program that gives your little one a strong foundation to learn life skills.
Unless you already have friends and family in your area who have been through a similar situation, you probably feel like you’re navigating this path without much direction. But the good news is that there are many people with children with ASD who have maximized the steps to finding the ideal early intervention program, and this guide combines those tips into one easy-to-use process to help you get started.
First, Trust Your Gut
One of the greatest parts of raising children today is that we’re often reminded that everyone is unique. Comparison isn’t fair, so if your little one is taking longer to do something than your friend’s toddler is, that’s okay!
But is it really?
Yes, each child learns to walk and talk and cite their ABCs at their own pace. However, at some point, you can’t ignore that your little one isn’t walking or talking like their peers, and you’re a little anxious. Should you ignore the differences and hope for the results to show up soon, or aim for early intervention?
This question is the gut-level deciding factor. You know your child best. A delay in speaking or walking, combined with other little nudges that something isn’t quite typical, may mean a trip to the pediatrician for advice. If the specialists suggest your child might have autism spectrum disorder, early intervention is the best way you can help them have a strong, independent future.
Start the Referral and Evaluation Process
If your gut and the specialists you’ve worked with suggest early intervention is necessary, you’ll need a referral to get started. This step is necessary to ensure your insurance covers treatment at low or no cost to you. Each state decides eligibility criteria, but once you have a diagnosis, it’s usually straightforward to obtain approval through private insurance or state-run services like Medicaid.
Your pediatrician will ask you what your concerns are, so it’s helpful to prepare before your visit. Common reasons for early intervention often include delayed speech or walking, difficulty with self-feeding, limited eye contact, or lack of skill growth.
Your pediatrician can give a diagnosis, but your state’s early intervention (EI) program is the main determining factor that will move you forward. This information from the CDC explains how to contact an EI representative and get your child the support they need.Determining whether your little one qualifies for EI assistance happens in an evaluation that takes place at home or a childcare facility. This location gives providers the opportunity to see how they behave in their natural environment, when they’re most comfortable. The observer will watch for skills like movement, learning, communication, and social interactions.
Choose a Program Provider
Once your child is approved for EI services, you’ll receive a list of providers that offer care, usually in the form of Applied Behavior Analysis therapy, or ABA. ABA is a research-based therapy that uses scientific principles of learning and behavior to teach skills.
Most ABA programs are family-oriented, with the understanding that children are most successful when everyone is on board with their growth. The provider you choose should involve you in everything from goal-setting to routine creation, coaching you in how to best build learning opportunities for your child during everyday moments.
Look for a provider who offers services in the environment most comfortable for your situation. ABA therapy can be home- or center-based, and both have their advantages and disadvantages. When you meet with the provider’s representative, they should communicate clearly, letting you know the services they provide, the locations, and the ups and downs of the different options offered.
Just as you’d visit a childcare center before leaving your child there, take some time to check out the various programs near you. Be sure to call ahead to ensure that someone will have time to answer your questions. (This article by BehaviorSpan is a great resource of suggestions to ask an ABA therapy provider if you need some ideas.) If you don’t feel comfortable with one, move on to the next.
When you have an idea of the care plan recommended for your little one, and you know the insurance coverage, ask about the costs that come out of your pocket and how to minimize them. In most states, like Colorado, a diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder typically qualifies the child for Medicaid, which covers 100% of approved ABA therapy programs.
Conclusion
Finding an early intervention program that’s right for your toddler doesn’t have to be stressful. Once you know they need care, the next step is to contact your state’s EI resource center, which will guide you as to your options.
With a diagnosis and referral, it’s time to visit your potential therapy providers. The winning program is a center that works around your family structure, communicates clearly, and involves you in planning and learning, and is within your budget.
