10 Resources for Parents Starting Their Journey with a Preschooler Diagnosed with Autism

1. CDC “Learn the Signs. Act Early.”
A strong starting point for developmental milestones, autism information, and early intervention basics. Their checklists are practical and easy to use at home.

2. State Infant Toddler Connection
For children birth–3 in Virginia, this is often one of the first calls. They coordinate evaluations and early intervention services.

3. County Infant and Toddler Connection
Since you’re in Northern Virginia, this one may be especially useful. They can help with evaluations and next steps locally.

4. Your local Child Find / Preschool Special Education team
Once a child is 3 (or nearing 3), Child Find through the public school system can evaluate for preschool special education services and supports.

5. Autism Speaks – First Concern to Action Toolkit
Whether families connect with every part of Autism Speaks or not, this particular toolkit is very practical: evaluations, questions to ask, and organizing next steps.

6. Parent to Parent USA – Parent to Parent USA
Sometimes the most helpful resource is another parent who’s a little further ahead. Parent-to-parent programs can connect you with families who understand the school/therapy/insurance learning curve.

7. The Arc – The Arc
Great for disability advocacy, school rights, Medicaid waiver information, and planning ahead.

8. Your pediatrician + developmental pediatrician waitlists
Not glamorous—but important. If a developmental pediatrician referral may be helpful, it’s often worth getting on the list early because waits can be long.

9. A simple home binder (or digital folder)
Not a formal “organization,” but one of the most helpful tools:

• diagnosis paperwork

• therapy notes

• insurance info

• evaluation reports

• questions for providers

• IEP/Child Find paperwork
  It saves so much stress later.

10. Pontis Parent Partners
A parent-centered space matters. Especially when you’re balancing appointments, school systems, and daily family life. Practical support from someone who understands the navigation piece can make a real difference.

A final note for parents starting here:
You do not have to figure out every therapy, every school option, or every long-term plan right away.

The next right step is enough:
one phone call, one evaluation, one question at a time.