Here’s a list of valuable resources for parents who suspect their child might be neurodivergent or in need of services. These resources can help with diagnosis, services, support, and information:

1. Autism Speaks

  • Website: https://www.autismspeaks.org
  • Services: Offers information on autism spectrum disorder (ASD), early signs, diagnostic services, and resources for families. They also provide a tool to help find local providers and support services.
  • Phone: 1-888-288-4762 (1-888-AUTISM2)

2. The National Autistic Society (NAS)

  • Website: https://www.autism.org.uk
  • Services: Provides a wide range of information on autism, including signs, diagnosis, and support networks. NAS also offers a helpline and a directory of services.
  • Phone: 0808 800 4104 (UK)

3. The Autism Society

  • Website: https://www.autism-society.org
  • Services: Offers resources for families, including information on early diagnosis, therapy services, school services, and community connections.
  • Phone: 1-800-3-AUTISM (1-800-328-8476)

4. National Early Childhood Technical Assistance Center (NECTAC)

  • Website: http://www.nectac.org
  • Services: Provides resources on early intervention for children with disabilities, including how to access public services and special education programs.

5. Child Find (Special Education Services)

  • Website: https://www.wrightslaw.com
  • Services: Offers legal resources, advocacy guides, and information on how to access special education services through public schools (IDEA—Individuals with Disabilities Education Act).
  • Phone: Check local school district websites for Child Find programs, or contact special education services in your area.

6. The U.S. Department of Education – IDEA

  • Website: https://sites.ed.gov/idea/
  • Services: Provides information on the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), which ensures services for children with disabilities, including autism. This is a helpful resource for parents navigating special education services.

7. CDC – Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (Autism)

  • Website: https://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/autism
  • Services: Offers detailed information on developmental milestones, autism symptoms, early detection, and screening for children.

8. Early Intervention Programs

  • Website: https://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/actearly
  • Services: For younger children (under 3 years old), early intervention programs offer services to address developmental delays or disabilities. The CDC provides tools to track milestones and find local early intervention services.

9. Understood

  • Website: https://www.understood.org
  • Services: Offers resources for children with learning and attention issues. They provide personalized resources, advocacy tools, and guidance for parents and caregivers.
  • Phone: 1-800-325-0778

10. Parent Training and Information Centers (PTIs)

  • Website: https://www.parentcenterhub.org/find-your-center/
  • Services: PTIs provide assistance to parents of children with disabilities, including autism. They offer information on how to navigate the special education system and access appropriate services.

11. Local Support Groups & Nonprofits

  • Website: Search for local support groups like “Autism Parent Support Groups” or “Special Needs Parent Groups” in your community.
  • Services: Many local nonprofits offer parent support, resources, and networking opportunities. Connecting with a local group can also help with recommendations for nearby service providers.

12. Family Voices

  • Website: https://www.familyvoices.org
  • Services: A national organization that helps families of children with special healthcare needs, including resources on advocacy, healthcare rights, and insurance for medical services.

13. National Parent Helpline

  • Website: https://www.nationalparenthelpline.org
  • Phone: 1-855-4A PARENT (1-855-427-2736)
  • Services: Offers emotional support and advocacy for parents who need help navigating challenges related to children with disabilities.

14. Social Security Administration (SSI Benefits for Children)

  • Website: https://www.ssa.gov
  • Services: Parents of children with disabilities may be eligible for Supplemental Security Income (SSI) for children under 18 who have disabilities. The SSA offers information and application assistance.

15. As You Are

  • Website: https://www.asyouare.com
  • Services: As You Are is an online resource that provides information and support for families of neurodivergent individuals, focusing on autism and related challenges. They offer educational resources, courses, and support for parents, educators, and caregivers. The site is dedicated to helping families understand neurodiversity and provides a variety of tools for parents navigating the complexities of raising a neurodivergent child.
  • Additional Features: The platform provides workshops, webinars, and one-on-one consultations with experts in neurodiversity. They also offer resources tailored to families looking to foster acceptance, inclusion, and better understanding of autism and other neurodivergent conditions.