For parents & caregivers
A clear place to start after a child’s autism diagnosis.
You do not need to solve everything today. Use these first steps to learn the basics, understand options, and find support for your family.
Download the first-week checklist1
Learn the basics
Understand autism, common terms, and neuro-affirming ways to think about support.
Take this step2
Build your support team
Compare evaluators and therapists, then prepare questions before scheduling.
Take this step3
Understand school and funding
Review IEPs, 504 plans, insurance, Medicaid, and state-specific options.
Take this step4
Find community
Connect with local support groups and sensory-friendly places for everyday life.
Take this stepA simple first-week checklist
You do not need to solve everything at once. Choose one or two useful next steps and keep the rest for later.
- Save your evaluation and recommendation documents in one place.
- Write down the questions you want answered first.
- Ask your insurer about autism-related benefits.
- Contact one local support group.
Have a specific question?
Ask the Autism Hearts Assistant for help translating a report, planning a provider search, or finding local support.
Ask the AI Assistant