MOFEAT - New Families - Be prepared


	Warning Signs



	What is Autism?



	How is Autism Diagnosed?



	Alphabet Soup

Checklist for families with a

newly diagnosed child

Download a copy of the MO-FEAT resource directory to assist with the following steps:

Download a copy of the First 100 Days kit from Autism Speaks
Locate a local support group
Contact your regional office of the Department of Mental Health
Contact your school district about an evaluation
Educate yourself on autism and special education
Consider applying for SSI (Supplemental Security Income)
Access respite care
Begin estate planning
Conside rthe needs of other family members


	New Families 1. Be prepared Before you go to your next well visit, print out the checklist of developmental milestones and not whether your child has met each of the expected milestones. If you have questions or concerns, write down a few concrete examples that might assist your physician: "My child doesn't respond to my voice" "He spends so much time lining up his toys, he has no interest in other children." "She hasn't learned a new word in months" "He doesn't look at me - he never makes eye contact" Whether or not you have concerns, ask your doctor for a routine screening. < back Source: First Signs