Newly Diagnosed

So Your Child Was Just Diagnosed with Autism...Now What?

First, take a deep breath. You are not alone. We understand what you’re feeling right now—because we’ve been there. And we want you to know: it does get easier.

You may be experiencing a mix of emotions—sadness, confusion, stress, and anxiety. You might also feel relief, validation, or even comfort now that you finally have answers after months or years of wondering. Whatever you’re feeling is valid. Give yourself grace as you process those emotions, and take the time you need to navigate them.

But… what comes next?

That’s where Your Autism Community comes in. We’re here to help you figure out the next steps, connect you with resources, and provide the support of a community that understands.

Getting Started: What to Check First

Here are a few things to confirm now that you have your child’s diagnosis:

Evaluation Report

This document contains valuable insights about your child, the results of diagnostic testing, and recommendations for next steps. Keep this report handy—it will be a crucial resource as you move forward.

Written Order for ABA (if applicable)

If you’re considering ABA therapy (Applied Behavior Analysis), you may need a written order from the evaluator, much like a prescription. If it’s not included in your evaluation report, reach out to your provider to obtain one.

Important Decisions: What’s Next?

ABA Therapy – Yes or No?

Choosing whether or not to pursue ABA is a deeply personal decision. ABA (Applied Behavior Analysis) is the only empirically validated therapy for autism. While it’s not a cure, it is designed to help autistic individuals build useful skills like communication, direction-following, and social interaction while reducing distressing or harmful behaviors.

ABA isn’t about making your child fit into a neurotypical mold—it’s about helping them engage with the world in a way that supports their growth and independence.

Building Your Support Network

You don’t have to do this alone. Making connections with others who understand can make all the difference.

Find Your Community

Reach out to your local autism society to connect with other families. Support groups, playdates, and autism-friendly events can help you feel less isolated and give your child opportunities to engage with peers.

Explore Your Autism Community (YAC)

Our website is packed with resources, guides, and a glossary to help you understand all the new terms and acronyms you’ll encounter. We’re here to make this journey easier for you. You’ve got this. And we’re here to help, every step of the way.