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    Check out our Parent Guide to Therapies to find out more about common therapies and interventions for autism spectrum disorder (ASD).

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My child has an ASD diagnosis, what do I do?

Helping your child: finding early intervention

Early intervention is the term used to describe therapy, education and family support programs that can help a child’s development. It is the package of intervention that you will put together to help your child develop as well as possible. Many types of early intervention are available for children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) – you can find out about them on this website. You will find that your child will probably benefit most from having more than one type of intervention during early childhood.

  • Hover over and clic k any step on the diagram below to read more about that step.
  • Click the map of Australia below to find contacts for each step in your region. 

Helping your child: child care and early learning

Spending part of the week in a child care or an early childhood education setting is generally recommended for young children with ASD. The right time to start depends on family circumstances. Finding the best place for your child might take time, so it’s always good to start learning about child care and education early.

  • Hover over and click any step on the diagram below to read more about that step.
  • Click the map of Australia below to find contacts for each step in your region.

Helping your child: going to school

Families often say that it feels as if both parents and children are starting school – this might be especially true for families of a child with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The benefits of being well informed about your options and prepared to speak up in your child’s interest can’t be understated.

  • Hover over and clic k any step on the diagram below to read more about that step.
  • Click the map of Australia below to find contacts for each step in your region. 

Government funding and financial support

Getting an official diagnosis can open doors to financial support and government assistance.  The picture below shows the options you have to explore. This path also shows how to access the early intervention funding under the Helping Children with Autism (HCWA) package.

  • Hover over and clic k any step on the diagram below to read more about that step.
  • Click the map of Australia below to find contacts for each step in your region. 

You and your family: help and support

Parenting a young child with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a challenge for any family. You will not be alone in finding it stressful and overwhelming at times. Friendships with other families who care for a child with ASD can be a tremendous help, as can learning where to find good-quality information and support.

  • Hover over and click any step on the diagram below to read more about that step.
  • Click the map of Australia below to find contacts for each step in your region.