I’ve previously shared my challenges in getting people to understand that something was going on with our son. It wasn’t until we moved to Arizona that we started to see progress. However, the difficulty I faced was figuring out what resources and support options were available for parents of an autistic child. Especially since we were new in town without any local friends to ask for advice. It was discouraging not knowing which questions to ask or where to begin the search for information.
Navigating the resources available for autism support in Arizona involves understanding the wealth of therapy options, educational programs, legal rights, and community support systems in place. By tapping into these resources, you can ensure that your child and your entire family receive the support necessary to face the unique challenges of Autism spectrum disorder. Remember, you are not alone—there are numerous support services designed to assist you and your family along this journey.
This guide serves as a jumping-off point for parents newly dealing with an autism diagnosis. Additionally, for more detailed information or specific issues, contacting local resources directly or consulting with your healthcare provider and support network can provide more personalized guidance and help.
State-Funded Programs: A Starting Point for Families
Navigating the early years of a child’s diagnosis can feel disheartening, but Arizona’s state-funded programs are here to light the way for families embarking on this journey. A key pillar of support is the Arizona Early Intervention Program (AzEIP), specifically designed for children under three years of age showing signs of developmental delays or disabilities. This was the first website I went to, to start the evaluation process. AzEIP offers personalized services tailored to meet the unique needs of each child. Parents of autistic children can take advantage of a myriad of services, including but not limited to, speech therapy, occupational therapy, and physical therapy. These interventions are critical in fostering the child’s development and ensuring they have the strongest start possible in life.
Beyond therapy services, AzEIP facilitates a collaborative approach, bringing together a team of professionals dedicated to supporting the child and their family. Moreover, this team works hand-in-hand with families, guiding them through the process of creating and implementing an Individualized Family Service Plan (IFSP). This plan outlines the child’s needs and sets forth strategies to meet those needs, thereby providing a roadmap for early intervention and support. Through AzEIP, families are not just receiving services. They are building a foundation for their child’s future, equipped with the tools and resources necessary to navigate the challenging behaviors and triumphs of raising an autistic child.
Division of Developmental Disabilities
The state’s Division of Developmental Disabilities (DDD) provides a comprehensive suite of services and programs aimed at assisting families in overcoming the unique challenges presented by autism. They offer case management services through Support Coordinators who assist members and their families by explaining rights and responsibilities, facilitating service planning, and assisting with obtaining authorized services. DDD provides a wide range of services to eligible members under the Arizona Long-Term Care System (ALTCS). Authorized by DDD, respite services give short-term relief to caregivers, allowing them some downtime while ensuring their child is well cared for. For those eligible, the Arizona Health Care Cost Containment System (AHCCCS), Arizona’s Medicaid program, offers coverage for many services that children with autism might need, including medical and behavioral health services.
Although we have health insurance through my husband’s job, we found it insufficient for our needs—particularly because it did not cover essential therapies like speech and occupational therapy for our son. As many of you may know, insurance companies often have strict guidelines about what they consider necessary. Thankfully, the Division of Developmental Disabilities (DDD) served as a crucial supplemental insurance. Without the support from DDD, we would not have been able to afford all the necessary therapies for our son.
Non-Profit Organizations Making a Difference
Non-profit organizations play a pivotal role in uplifting families of children with autism. A standout example is Raising Special Kids. A dedicated group that extends its hand to families navigating the complexities of developmental disabilities. Their offerings go beyond simple advice; they provide a comprehensive suite of services designed to empower parents and caregivers. From educational workshops that demystify the intricacies of special needs education to advocacy services that stand up for children’s rights in various spheres, they are a cornerstone of support.
The organization facilitates support groups, creating spaces where parents can share experiences, challenges, and victories, fostering a community of understanding and empathy. Additionally, Raising Special Kids emphasizes the importance of parental training, equipping caregivers with the tools they need to advocate for and support their child’s unique journey.
This collaborative approach ensures families are not just surviving but thriving, surrounded by a network of resources and support tailored to their needs. Engaging with such organizations can be a transformative experience, providing clarity, guidance, and a sense of solidarity to families of children with autism in Arizona.
Arizona Autism United
A nonprofit organization that has been providing holistic family-centered services and evidence-based treatment since 2006. They offer free parent support that can coach you through a wide range of needs. And it doesn’t end there. Here are some other services they offer:
- Speech & Language Therapy
- Occupational Therapy
- HABILITATION
- Diagnostic Evaluations
- Individual & Family Counseling
- Respite Care
- Sibshops (sibling support groups)
- Triple P (Positive Parenting Program)
- School Consultation
- Ride-A-Bike Program
Suzy Foundation
A nonprofit organization that is dedicated to helping special needs individuals with the cost of assistive devices not covered by insurance.Beyond purchasing assistive devices for special needs individuals, the Suzy Foundation uses its resources to spread awareness and create safe, fun, and welcoming events for individuals with special needs. Suzy Foundation started the Tempe Adaptive Adventure Day, All Ability 5K, Suzy Swap, Sensory Santa, and more to create a community for families impacted by diagnoses of all kinds.
Southwest Autism Research & Resource Center (SARRC)
SARRC is a Phoenix-based nonprofit dedicated to autism research, education, evidence-based treatment, and community outreach. They provide a variety of programs, including early childhood services, educational outreach, and family support groups.
The Autism Society of Greater Phoenix (ASGP)
Provides comprehensive support to the whole family. Available resources:
- Be Safe Program
- Autism 101 Class
- Safety 101 Class
- Transition 101 Class
- Autistic Adult Support
- Caregiver Support Groups
- Let’s Connect Social Outings
- Virtual Game Night
- LEGO Club
- Sensitive Santa
- Swim Parties
- Sensory-Friendly Job Fair
Educational Resources and School-Based Support
The state offers an abundance of educational resources and school-based support tailored to meet the individual needs of autistic students. Additionally, partnering with the Division of Developmental Disabilities, schools across Arizona are equipped to provide specialized services that ensure a conducive learning environment for children with autism. Consequently, this collaboration extends to incorporating special education teachers, school psychologists, and other dedicated professionals into a child’s education plan.
Families can tap into these resources to secure Individualized Education Plans (IEPs) that are custom-made to support the educational and developmental growth of their child. These plans are not just documents; they are a roadmap for success, outlining specific strategies, accommodations, and interventions that cater to the unique needs of each student with autism. Beyond the classroom, schools in Arizona also offer a range of support services, including speech and occupational therapy, which are integrated into the school day, making support seamless and easily accessible.
Let me tell you, IEPs can be difficult to read and understand. However, once your child starts school this will be your best friend.
Annual Events, Workshops, and Conferences
Participating in social events and educational workshops can provide both information and emotional support. Some notable annual events include:
2024 African American Conference on Disabilities: June 28 at the Hyatt Regency in Downtown Phoenix
The AACD is the premier comprehensive disability conference in the United States that addresses the intersection between race and disability. The conference examines avenues for self-advocacy to ensure the effective provision of services, resources, and enforcement of civil rights in the African American and disability communities.
Legal Rights and Advocacy
Understanding and advocating for your child’s rights is crucial. Arizona law requires that schools accommodate the unique challenges of students with ASD. Parents can seek assistance from:
Arizona Center for Disability Law: The Arizona Center for Disability Law is a not-for-profit public interest law firm. Dedicated to protecting the rights of individuals with a wide range of physical, mental, psychiatric, sensory, and cognitive disabilities.The Arizona Center for Disability Law:
- Provides information on legal rights
- Represents individuals in negotiations or in administrative proceedings and court
- Provides outreach and training on legal rights and self-advocacy
- Represents individuals in negotiations or in administrative proceedings and court
- Brings impact litigation to remedy systemic problems
- Provides technical assistance to groups and individuals on disability-related legal issues
Tips for Parents Outside Arizona Seeking Support
Local Autism Societies: Many states have their own chapters of the Autism Society of America, which can provide local resources, support groups, and educational events.
Online Support Groups: Platforms like MyAutismTeam offer social networks specifically for parents of children with autism, facilitating connections with others facing similar challenges. Even though it can be hit or miss, local Facebook autism support groups are a good place to start.
Finding Support for Parents of Autistic Child
Every day, I discover new resources, and my role as an Autism parent mentor allows me to support families in ways that were once critical for me. Sharing our journey has not only given others hope but has also guided them by highlighting programs they were previously unaware of, or simply by offering a listening ear. I aim to continue spreading knowledge and empowering others through these experiences.
Kish
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Posted By: Kisha Gulley · In: Autism, Featured
