DC newly diagnosed with ASD. Scared. Where can we connect with other parents?

[Anonymous]

We're in Moco and wondering whether there are any parents groups we can connect with?

[Anonymous]

OP, don't be scared. Good for you getting the diagnosis. I recommend social skills groups and activities for children with autism or autism spectrum. Look for adapted leisure activities in MoCo.

[Anonymous]

There's a sticky at the top of this forum with support groups. It's a little dated know but some are still around.

Call autism speaks for their first 100 days toolkit and ask about support groups.

Hang in there. You're not alone and kudos to you for seeking a diagnosis and getting help for your kid.

[Anonymous]

JSSA in Shady Grove has a parents support group the first Monday night of the month. You can find more info on their website. I was only able to go once so far yet found it helpful.
There are also yahoo groups - MCNeeds and MC-Asperger-Parent-Support-Group - which are helpful resources. Lastly, check out xminds.org - the Partnership for Extraordinary Minds is a great resource for education options for students on the autism spectrum.
Hang in there. Getting the diagnosis is scary yet it gets better. I also had to remember that it's still the same kid I've known his whole life, who is a lot more than just this diagnosis. Also now having a path to go down is helpful, including with the school system.
Best of luck!

[Anonymous]

Hi OP,

So many of us remember what it's like to be in your shoes...getting that diagnosis. This place can be a very supportive outlet as well. Try not to be scared...I can assure you that it does get better. When I first found out, I was a mess...devastated really. But once I got over the initial shock, anger and fear, I dove head first into finding out everything I could about how to help my child. It took a few months, but now he is in therapy as well as the Childfind program, and he is a happy little guy. There is light at the end of the tunnel....I promise. Just hang in there...

[Anonymous]

Second for xminds.

How old is your child?

[Anonymous]

At least you have something definitive. Envision "the spectrum" from left to right, the former "Aspberger's" on the left and various more issues as one progresses to the right. An actual spectrum.

We are convinced our own DD is as close to that left side line as you can get, but just doesnt tick all the boxes for ANYthing in the DSM. Anxiety, maybe, but just barely.

I'm starting to realize, there are adults everywhere that are either high-functioning ASD or pre-spectral and just aren't diagnosed. And is there really a solid line between "normal" (average, whatever) and the Spectrum? Labels are strange things.
Having a diagnosis though opens up resources to you that will be good.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:There's a sticky at the top of this forum with support groups. It's a little dated know but some are still around.

Call autism speaks for their first 100 days toolkit and ask about support groups.

Hang in there. You're not alone and kudos to you for seeking a diagnosis and getting help for your kid.

Or you can just print it out from their website. They keep a resource list on line, too.

http://www.autismspeaks.org/family-services/tool-kits/100-day-kit

[Anonymous]

Hi OP, just sending you support. We do not have a diagnosis yet- DS is still too young- but we all 'know' what is coming. I describe it as trying to get ready for a sucker punch.
I am anxiously awaiting it though. So we can be where you are. Dealing with the blow and then getting back to loving our kid.
Hang in there.

[Anonymous]

We were where you are about a year ago. It's scary at first, but that passes. Your kid is the same great kid he was last week, and spending time with him will be reassuring. And you'll feel better once you start getting him some better help, and read some of the literature including the many insightful books written by autistic adults. There are scary challenges but many positive aspects too. And you haven't said how old your kid is, but for us getting into a smaller and more understanding school environment has made a world of difference.

[Anonymous]

ASD is all the rage these days. The diagnosis is handed out like candy. I wouldn't get too upset about it. Just take one issue at a time -- and get a second opinion if you feel the diagnosis might be off.

[Anonymous]

Hi OP, my DS is 5 and was diagnosed 2 years ago. I remember the fear and sadness those first few months when we just didn't know where to go & what resources are available. I discovered that the best unofficial support group was the other parents of kids in DS's social skills group. We all sat in the lobby while our kids were in the social skills group, and the support & guidance I received from these awesome folks was invaluable. That is how I found out about Sports Plus, Motion Education, Autism Ambassadors and other groups/resources you will undoubtably come across on your journey.

All of the PPs here offered excellent advice. I've found this forum to be a wealth of information as well. Sometimes just knowing other parents out there "get it" makes you feel so much better. Good luck to you and your DC!

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

ASD is all the rage these days. The diagnosis is handed out like candy. I wouldn't get too upset about it. Just take one issue at a time -- and get a second opinion if you feel the diagnosis might be off.

Asshole.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

ASD is all the rage these days. The diagnosis is handed out like candy. I wouldn't get too upset about it. Just take one issue at a time -- and get a second opinion if you feel the diagnosis might be off.

Asshole.

I was thinking troll, but I like your response better.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

ASD is all the rage these days. The diagnosis is handed out like candy. I wouldn't get too upset about it. Just take one issue at a time -- and get a second opinion if you feel the diagnosis might be off.

Asshole.

I was thinking troll, but I like your response better.

+1