The Ultimate Autism Support Checklist for Families Beginning the Journey
Published November 3, 2025
•
3 min read
Getting an autism diagnosis for your child can come with so many emotions — relief, worry, confusion, hope. Totally normal. What matters right now is knowing what to do next and where to find reliable autism resources for parents who are just starting this journey.
This guide gives you a simple, supportive, and practical autism resource checklist to help you take confident steps forward. Think of it as your roadmap during these first days and weeks after an autism diagnosis.
You're not alone — and you don’t have to figure it all out today.
What to do after an autism diagnosis
When you're wondering “newly diagnosed autism — what do I do next?”, start here.
Understand the diagnosis and recommendations
Ask your child’s provider to explain the evaluation in simple terms. Request:
- Written diagnostic report
- Treatment recommendations
- Referrals for therapy and school services
- Follow-up contact info
This paperwork unlocks autism support services like early intervention, speech therapy, and ABA therapy.
Use trusted autism resources
The internet can get overwhelming fast — stick to credible autism support resources like:
- CDC autism resources
- Autism Speaks toolkits
- Local autism organizations
- Hospital developmental programs
- Parent support networks
Real, evidence-based information makes everything easier.
Explore autism therapy options
Many families begin looking into autism therapy options right away. Common supports include:
- ABA therapy
- Speech therapy
- Occupational therapy
- Parent coaching
- Social skills support
Early support matters, and evidence shows ABA therapy for autism helps build communication, behavior, and independence skills. If you're ready to find ABA providers, we’ll show you reliable tools below.
Check insurance and benefits
Call your insurance and ask:
- Does my plan cover ABA therapy for autism?
- Which ABA providers are in-network?
- What paperwork is needed?
- How long does approval take?
Insurance can feel confusing, but being organized from the beginning saves time later.
Connect with the school system
If your child is school-aged or in preschool, request an evaluation for:
- Early intervention services
- IEP planning
- Speech or OT at school
- Classroom supports
Schools are an important part of long-term autism support services.
Parent-to-parent tips: you’ve got this
Raising a child with autism is a journey — and you are learning fast.
Keep documents organized
Create a binder or digital folder for:
- Testing reports
- Provider contacts
- Insurance approvals
- Therapy notes
Find your support circle
Search for autism parent support groups online or locally. Other parents will be your go-to resource and emotional anchor.
Give yourself grace
You don’t need to know everything today.
Focus on one step at a time. Celebrate the small wins — they matter.
Your child hasn’t changed. You just have more information and tools to help them thrive.
Find autism therapy & ABA support easily
Finding autism therapy providers can feel overwhelming — but it doesn’t have to be.
With ABA Navigator, you can:
- Search ABA providers in your area
- Filter by insurance
- Compare programs and services
- Explore different ABA settings, including
Start your journey with confidence — explore and compare providers, programs, and insurance-friendly options that fit your child.
Ready to find support?
Search trusted ABA providers now.
FAQs
What should I do right after an autism diagnosis?
Review the evaluation, gather resources, and begin exploring early intervention and therapy options. Start small — no rush.
How do I find autism therapy providers?
Use platforms like ABA Navigator to compare programs and filter by insurance and location.
Does my child need ABA therapy right away?
Early support can help, but every child and family is different. Learn, ask questions, and begin when you feel ready.
Sources:
- https://www.ed.gov/sites/ed/files/parents/needs/speced/iepguide/iepguide.pdf
- https://www.cdc.gov/autism/communication-resources/index.html
- https://www.aacap.org/aacap/Families_and_Youth/Resource_Centers/Autism_Resource_Center/Home.aspx
- https://www.nichd.nih.gov/health/topics/autism/more_information/resources
