Section 2
The Diagnosis Process
The process for obtaining an autism diagnosis can vary from child to child. In some cases, schools make referrals. In other cases, parents advocate for evaluations. Still, in other cases, the pediatrician or other healthcare provider may make the referral. In any event, the days and weeks after a new autism diagnosis are often the most challenging for many families.
In this section on diagnosis, the IRIS Center describes the differences between types of diagnoses, and Dr. Ilene Schwartz discusses the importance of evaluating the whole child during the diagnostic process. Dr. Schwartz later identifies factors that contribute to delayed diagnoses, included family ethnic and socioeconomic background.
Please take some time here to learn more about the impact of early intervention (birth to three years) and the role that early intervention providers play in supporting parents of children with autism, including the diagnosis process.
Pause & Explore…
In what capacity do you collaborate with Child Development Services in Maine?
Learn more about the Maine CDS here…
Which CDS site(s) serve the children and families who you support?
Locate Maine CDS regional site information here…
Take a moment to gather this information. You might consider downloading (or even creating your own) an informational flyer that you can share with educators and families who could benefit from learning more about early intervention.
For Teachers…
- Autism 101 from the Organization for Autism Research (OAR)
- Professional Resources & Research from MAIER
- Professional Development Resources from MAIER
For Parents & Families…
- From Diagnosis to Intervention from OAR
- Family Resource Center from MAIER
- The Maine Parent Guide to Autism Spectrum Disorders
- Find a discussion of the diagnostic process in Maine in Booklet 1: What to do when you suspect an Autism Spectrum Disorder