frequent AUTISM questions (fAqs)

Could it Be Autism?

If you have concerns about a child's developmental progress, it is crucial to take action and arrange for a developmental screening. The following sites can help you understand the Red Flags of Autism Spectrum Disorders and, if necessary, arrange for screening and early intervention.

First Signs
LCPS ChildFind Provides Free Developmental Screenings for Preschool Children Ages 2 through 5

You can also arrange for an evaluation at many of the nearby Centers that have specialists who focus on Autism

Just Diagnosed?

Check out the 100 day kit at Autism Speaks.
The Autism Society of America (ASA) and the National Autism Association (NAA) have great background information and resources.
Don't forget to visit your pediatrician and talk to them about your diagnosis and the resources they can provide. Ask your pediatrician to get a copy of Caring for Children With Autism Spectrum Disorders: A Resource Toolkit for Clinicians issued by the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) if they haven’t already.

Looking for Local Autism Groups for Support and Information?

Parents of Autistic Children-Northern Virginia Chapter (POAC-NoVA)
Parent Educational Advocacy Training Center (PEATC)
The Arc of Loudoun County
Autism Help Network

Is Autism Treatable?

Have you heard that autism is treatable and want to understand more? Some people consider biomedical interventions like special diets, supplements, and other treatments. Autism Research Institute (ARI) has the most comprehensive information about this and you can also find support and further information at Talk About Curing Autism, Generation Rescue.

To learn more about upcoming seminars go to Defeat Autism Now (DAN) and Autism One.

Questions about IEPs and Special Education, including ESY?

The Virginia Department of Education (VDOE), Office of Special Education and Student Services Federal Special Education Regulations

Virginia Special Education Regulations and Extended School Year (ESY) Regulations and Individuals with Disabilities Education Improvement Act of 2004

The Arc of Loudoun County(LARC)

The Loudoun County Public School (LCPS) Parent Resource Center ( PRC) has great trainings and informative seminars.

Wrightslaw is the leading website for accurate, reliable information about special education law and advocacy for children with disabilities. You will find thousands of articles, cases and resources.

The Center for Special Education Advocacy is an independent, private, not for profit, tax-exempt corporation formed by advocates dedicated to improving educational services and outcomes for students with disabilities in Virginia. Includes lists of attorneys and advocates.

IEP4U.COM has over 4000 free Goals and Objectives each with changeable benchmarks. The Idea Statements are spread out over seven subjects (domains) and four functional levels. Teachers, parents and students can now access objectives directly from this Web Site. Note: Some of the content requires a subscription(fee), be sure to see the link to www.iepfree.com.

Vaccines?

To research vaccine safety:

Centers for Disease Control

National Vaccine Information Center

World Health Organization

NOTE: On March 26, 2008, LCPS received information from the VDOE and the Virginia Department of Health, Division of Immunizations, that information supplied to school divisions regarding changes in required immunizations for school entry for the 2008-2009 school year is incorrect: A second varicella and a second mumps immunization are recommended but are not required for school attendance for school year 2008-2009. Click here for more info.

Politics?

Interested in Virginia's proposed legislation to mandate insurance coverage for autism treatments?

Read the full text of VA HB83. This bill didn't leave committee; however, we're working very hard, with the support of Autism Speaks, to get this bill passed in the next session! To learn more about our efforts click here.

Want to know what your politician says about autism?

Check out A-Champ for more info.

Autism Votes, an Autism Speaks initiative, has a wealth of information on current Federal and State Initiatives, including resources and talking points. Be sure to stay informed by signing up for their email updates.

How can I Share Information?

Want to find a comprehensive database where families on the spectrum can support and learn from each other's experiences in powerful new ways? See Medigenesis.