When I first heard the words "autism spectrum disorder" from my son’s bilingual speech pathologist, my world felt like it turned upside down. We had recently moved to a new state, far away from the support of family and friends, and suddenly, I felt alone, worried, and desperate for answers. My son—my only child—wasn’t speaking at two years old, and despite reassurances from family members that boys often talk later, the speech pathologist recommended an evaluation.
As a Hispanic mom navigating this new territory, I initially clung to comforting cultural beliefs, but reality soon set in. I knew I needed strength, knowledge, and support to guide my son on this journey.
If you've recently received a diagnosis of autism or neurodivergence for your child, please know you're not alone. The path forward may seem daunting, but there are clear, actionable steps you can take to empower yourself and your family. Here's what I learned and how you can begin your journey with confidence:
1. Take Time to Process Your Emotions
It's perfectly normal—and important—to give yourself space to process your feelings. You might feel overwhelmed, anxious, or uncertain, and that's okay. Surround yourself with supportive people—whether family, friends, or an online community—to help you through these early moments.
Tip: Seek out online forums and support groups for emotional encouragement and shared experiences.
2. Connect with Your Insurance Provider Early
One of my first—and most valuable—steps was contacting our insurance provider, Anthem, which offers a specialized autism support program in Colorado. They provided me with a dedicated Case Manager who navigated us through financial assistance and support services.
Tip: Immediately ask your insurance if they have autism support programs. Providers like Anthem and Aetna in Colorado typically cover extensive hours for crucial therapies like speech, occupational therapy, and Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), which has greatly benefitted my son.
3. Leverage Early Intervention Programs
Because my son was under three, we qualified for free support through Rocky Mountain Human Services' Early Intervention Program in Denver. Early intervention is crucial—it helps children with developmental delays receive the tailored support they need at the earliest stage possible.
Tip: If your child is under three, contact your local health department immediately. Early intervention programs vary by county but often offer evaluations, therapies, and family resources.
4. Explore Local Support and Advocacy
Each region offers unique resources. In Colorado, I discovered incredible networks such as Parent to Parent of Colorado, Autism Speaks Community and Support Network, and dedicated therapy centers like Soar Autism Center. Connecting with local advocacy groups can provide invaluable guidance on your child's rights and available services.
Tip: Join local and online parent support groups to find emotional encouragement and practical advice tailored to your area.
5. Embrace and Understand Neurodiversity
Initially, the word "autism" might feel daunting, but it's essential to recognize that neurodivergence is simply another way of experiencing the world. Autism isn't something to "fix" but to embrace, understand, and support. Your child’s unique view can open doors to extraordinary strengths and capabilities.
Tip: Educate yourself continuously and encourage your family to create a supportive environment for your child.
6. Remember, You're Not Alone
Connecting with other families who are walking similar paths is invaluable. Share your experiences, seek advice, and offer support—these connections create a community of acceptance and understanding, making the journey much less daunting.
7.
Prioritize Self-Care
Supporting your child effectively requires taking care of yourself, too. After nearly three years, my husband and I finally started prioritizing date nights again. It's crucial to recharge, seek counseling if needed, and utilize your support networks. Your mental health directly impacts your ability to advocate and support your child.
Tip: Schedule regular self-care activities, and don't hesitate to seek professional help if you feel overwhelmed.
Final Thoughts
My journey through autism has been filled with challenges, yes, but it’s also brought incredible resilience, patience, and love. Each child’s path is beautifully unique—filled with milestones worth celebrating. I hope my story reassures you that resources, communities, and understanding are readily available.
Together, we can build a supportive, loving world where every child with autism feels accepted and cherished.
