Resources & next steps
A short list of places we trust
When our son was diagnosed, we spent a lot of late nights looking for answers. This is the list we wish someone had handed us. You don't need all of it. Pick one or two that fit where your family is right now, and come back for the rest when you're ready.
Where to start
Every link opens in a new tab, so this page stays right here when you need it.
National autism organizations
Broad information, advocacy, and family services.
- Autism Society of AmericaLocal affiliates, helpline, and family programs.
- Autism SpeaksToolkits by age and stage, including the 100 Day Kit.
- AUCD (University Centers)Find a University Center for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities near you.
- Autistic Self Advocacy NetworkResources written by autistic adults.
Early intervention & therapy
Free evaluations for children under 3, plus therapy we trust.
- ★ Personally recommended by Spillman SpeaksWestside Children's Therapy (Oak Lawn)Pediatric therapy and developmental services for children with autism, developmental differences, communication challenges, and sensory needs. Each child gets an individualized plan to build skills for everyday activities, communication, and independence."My son attended Westside Children's Therapy, and I had a wonderful experience with their services. I personally witnessed meaningful growth in his communication, feeding, and overall development. Westside Children's Therapy played an important role in our family's autism journey, and I highly recommend that parents explore their services when looking for therapy and developmental support." – Dominique10201 S. Cicero Avenue, Suite F, Oak Lawn, IL 60453
708-358-6937 · oaklawn@westsidect.com - CDC: Find Early InterventionContact info for your state's Part C program.
- ECTA CenterState-by-state early intervention resources for families.
School services (ages 3+)
IEPs, 504 plans, and knowing your rights at school.
- ★ Personally recommended by Spillman SpeaksSupreme Education Advocacy, LLCHelps students and families with IEP support, disability accommodations, academic appeals, disciplinary proceedings, and academic dismissals, from elementary school through higher education.Founder: Dr. L. Muhammed, J.D., Senior Education Advisor224-802-5400 · info@supremeeduadvocacy.com
- ★ Personally recommended by Spillman SpeaksiCan Dream CenterSupports students with autism, intellectual disabilities, and other learning differences through individualized programs that build academic, social, emotional, and life skills, while supporting families along the way.18501 Maple Creek Drive, Suite 200, Tinley Park, IL 60477
708-798-4200 - Center for Parent Information & ResourcesPlain-language guides to IEPs and IDEA.
- WrightslawSpecial education law, advocacy, and templates.
- Understood.orgHow school support works, from evaluations to accommodations.
Parent support groups
You don't have to figure this out by yourself.
Recommended books
A few gentle, honest reads to start with.
- Uniquely HumanBarry Prizant. A kind way to understand autistic behavior.
- The Reason I JumpNaoki Higashida. A young autistic writer explains his world.
- Autism BreakthroughRaun K. Kaufman. Family-centered approaches and stories.
- Sincerely, Your Autistic ChildLetters from autistic adults to parents.
Ready for more support?
We made these planners for the parts that pile up: appointments, therapy notes, IEP meetings, and everything in between. Everything stays in one place.
The Autism Family Organization System
Therapy and medical records, school, routines, and daily life, all in one place.
See the planner →
Autism Medical & Therapy Planner
Keep appointments, therapy notes, provider contacts, and medical information in one easy planner.
See the planner →
Autism School & IEP Planner
Stay on top of IEP meetings, school emails, evaluations, and goals all year.
See the planner →"Take what helps and leave the rest. There's no wrong place to start, and you're not doing this alone."
Dominique