Supporting your child while waiting for an autism diagnosis

First: you don’t need to wait to start helping

Waiting lists are stressful. The good news is you can begin supporting communication, play, and routines right away. Many effective strategies don’t require a diagnosis—just a clear goal and consistent practice.

Focus on the “day-to-day” goals

• Communication: help your child request, protest, and get your attention.
• Transitions: reduce power struggles with predictable routines and warnings.
• Play: build shared play routines, imitation, and turn-taking in small steps.
• Independence: practice tiny self-help steps (putting shoes away, handwashing).

Simple supports that help many children

Visual schedules, first/then language, short instructions, and predictable reinforcement can reduce frustration fast. Start small: one routine (like bedtime) and one skill (like asking for help) at a time.

Keep the evaluation process moving

While you’re waiting, collect documentation: teacher notes, EI reports, videos, and a short list of concerns. Call the office periodically for cancellations. If your child is under 3, explore Early Intervention. If school-aged, ask about a district evaluation.

When to get extra help sooner

If safety is a concern (aggression, elopement), sleep is severely disrupted, or your child is regularly unable to participate in daily life, seek support right away. Parent coaching or ABA can build safer skills while you wait.