First: What This Diagnosis Does and Doesn't Mean
An autism diagnosis doesn't change who your child is — it gives you a key. It unlocks services, therapies, funding, school supports, and a community of families who've walked this road. Many parents describe relief mixed with grief mixed with overwhelm. All of that is normal.
The First Week
Do These First
- Request the full written evaluation report from the diagnosing provider — you will need it constantly
- Make 3 copies: one master (never leaves home), one for school, one for agencies
- Start one binder or digital folder for everything autism-related
- Tell only who you're ready to tell — there is no announcement deadline
The First Month
- Under 3? Call Early Intervention (1-800-522-5006 in NY) — free evaluations and in-home therapy, parents can self-refer.
- Age 3–5? Contact your school district's CPSE for free preschool special education services.
- School age? Email your district's CSE chairperson requesting a special education evaluation — see our IEP & CSE Tool Kit.
- Call your insurance and ask what autism services are covered — New York mandates coverage for autism treatment in many plans.
- Start the OPWDD process — it's slow, so start early. Our OPWDD Navigation Tool Kit walks you through every step.
The First 100 Days
- Build the therapy team that fits your child (see Autism Therapies Explained)
- Connect with other parents — a local SEPTA, Facebook group, or Parent-to-Parent NYS match
- Learn your child's sensory profile (sensory issues guide)
- Put safety basics in place if wandering is a concern (wandering safety guide)
Parent tip: You don't have to do everything at once, and you don't have to do it perfectly. Services stack over months, not days. The single best predictor of a well-supported child is a parent who paces themselves.
Take Care of the Caregiver
Grief, relief, exhaustion, and hope can all arrive in the same afternoon. Find one person you can be honest with. Accept specific offers of help. And remember that thousands of parents in New York are a step ahead of you on this exact path — most are glad to share what they know.
Related Reading
This page is educational information, not medical, legal, or financial advice. Every autistic person is different — consult qualified professionals for guidance specific to your family.