When I first heard the words "autism spectrum disorder" from my son’s bilingual speech pathologist, my world seemed to turn upside down. We had recently moved to a new state, far from the comfort of family and friends, and I felt alone, worried, and desperate for answers. My son, my only child, wasn’t talking at two years old, and the speech pathologist suggested he should be evaluated. As a Hispanic mom, I held onto the belief that boys develop speech later—something my family often said. But the reality of the diagnosis began to settle in, and I knew I had to find the strength to support him.
If you’re a parent who has just heard the words “autism” or “neurodivergence” for the first time, I want you to know that you’re not alone. The path ahead might feel overwhelming, but there are steps you can take to help your child thrive. Here are some tips and resources based on my own experience, and I hope they help make your journey a little easier.
1.
Take Time to Process
Receiving an autism diagnosis can be overwhelming, and it’s okay to take time to process your emotions. You might feel worried, confused, or unsure about what comes next, but know that it’s normal to feel this way. Surround yourself with supportive people who can offer encouragement, whether that’s family, friends, or an online community.
2.
Start with Your Insurance Provider
One of the first things I did was contact my insurance provider, Anthem, which had an autism support program. This program provided me with invaluable information specific to Colorado. They assigned me a Case Manager who guided us through available financial assistance and support services. If your insurance offers a similar program, take advantage of it. Having someone to guide you through the process is a huge help.
Tip: Ask your insurance provider if they offer any specialized support programs for autism or neurodivergence. Some providers offer access to case managers, therapy coverage, and financial assistance. In Colorado, the ones that typically cover therapy services such as occupational therapy, speech, and ABA, are Anthem or Aetna.
3.
Utilize Early Intervention Programs
Because my son was under three years old, I was able to reach out to Rocky Mountain Human Services for support through the Early Intervention Program, which is available to families in Denver. Early intervention can make a huge difference, as it provides children with developmental delays or disabilities the resources they need early on. These programs often offer free evaluations, therapy, and other services tailored to your child’s needs.
Tip: If your child is under three, check with your local health department or early intervention program. These services are often county-specific and can be a lifeline in accessing early therapies.
4.
Research Local Support
Every state and region has different resources, and in Colorado, I found a wealth of support options. From parent support groups like Parent to Parent of Colorado to therapy centers such as Soar Autism Center, the more you explore, the more you'll find. You may also discover advocacy groups that can help guide you through the process of understanding your child’s rights and the services they’re entitled to.
Tip: Join local or online support groups for parents of children with autism. These communities are often full of advice, shared experiences, and emotional support.
5.
Embrace the Journey
It’s natural to feel scared or uncertain, but embracing the journey and seeking out knowledge helped me feel more empowered. Neurodivergence, including autism, means that people’s brains are wired differently, which leads them to learn and behave in unique ways. This is not something to "fix" but rather to understand and support. The more I learned, the more I realized that autism is simply another way of seeing and experiencing the world. And as parents, our job is to provide love, patience, and the right tools for our children to thrive.
6.
Know You Are Not Alone
It’s important to remember that you are not alone in this journey. Countless other parents are walking this path who are ready to support, share advice, and listen. By connecting with others and sharing your story, you can help foster a community of understanding and acceptance for all children with neurodivergence.
7.
Take Care of Yourself
This journey is not just about supporting your child—it’s also about taking care of yourself. It can be emotionally draining, but making time for your well-being is just as important. It took us almost three years to go out on a date again, so whether that’s leaning on your support system, finding moments of quiet, or seeking counseling, prioritize your mental health. You’ll be a stronger advocate for your child when you feel supported too.
Final Thoughts
My journey into the world of autism has taught me resilience, patience, and a deeper understanding of my son’s unique strengths. It’s not always easy, but it’s filled with moments of growth, connection, and love. Remember, every child’s path is different, and no matter where you are in your journey, there are resources and support available to help you navigate this new chapter.
By sharing our story, I hope to bring comfort to other families who may be feeling lost or overwhelmed. You are not alone, and together, we can create a world of acceptance, love, and understanding for all children.
