One of the first challenges parents face when their child is diagnosed with ASD is finding the proper support and resources for their family. There is a wealth of autism resources, support groups, and therapy programs around the world. However, it can be a challenge finding autism support close to home. Educating yourself and your family while finding local resources for your child’s development can make a world of difference in your child’s health as well as your own.
At EMIT, we offer in-home telehealth ABA therapy programs for ASD to support parents and their children. We offer treatment for children between the ages of 18 months to 18 years old across New Jersey. Learn more about our programs by calling us today at 844.983.0240.
Join the Local Autism Community
Whether you’re looking for government support, the best doctors, or local parent support groups, start local. The state of New Jersey provides a wide range of autism resources from sleep support to information to help siblings of children with ASD understand and cope. State and government websites offer critical information on legal rights, from special education requirements to state-funded resources.
Non-government local resources can help you build a community that already knows how to cope with ASD with your child. Parent support groups that meet virtually or in-person can help parents liaise with school administrators. They can also suggest local therapists, babysitters, and community activities support parents and children.
Sometimes asking for help and seeking support from your community to help your child can be overwhelming. However, developing a local network of other parents, advocates, and children with autism spectrum disorder can be beneficial. It can provide you and your child with strategies, resources, and support when you need it.
Where to Find Local Resources in New Jersey
Googling for local resources or trying to find your place in the local autism community might feel daunting. Because each child’s symptoms, needs, and challenges are unique, parents may struggle to find the “right” resources. Here are some places to begin:
- If your child received an early diagnosis and isn’t school age, consult your pediatrician. Pediatricians will have referrals and recommendations to local autism therapists. They can also provide knowledge about state resources or groups to contact for more information.
- If your child is in preschool, ask their teachers and administrators for help. They will know of local support groups and any groups within the school that can help you and your child integrate diagnosis and treatment into daily life at school. They may also have suggestions for speech pathologists and other community resources.
- If your child is in school, talk with the PTA to find resources at school and in your community. Here you may find local parent groups, faculty advocates, and other resources to help at your child’s school while also building stronger relationships with other parents.
Local support networks, therapists, and autism therapy programs are integral to early intervention and treatment programs to support children with ASD and their families. Autism can often make the outside world feel scary and overwhelming to children. Therefore, building connection within the local community is the perfect place to begin your child’s autism journey.
Contact EMIT for More Information
New Jersey provides a wealth of support for children with ASD, from government resources to independent clinical programs and educational groups. EMIT provides families with holistic, individualized support for ASD tailored to each child and family’s specific needs and concerns across New Jersey. Try our in-home telehealth therapies to support your child’s developmental journey. If you’re ready to begin telehealth autism therapy for your child, contact us online today or at 844.983.0240.
