According to estimates from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Autism and Developmental Disabilities Monitoring Network, one in 44 children has been identified with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). ASD is more than four times more common among boys than among girls.
Research suggests that early intervention services can greatly improve a child’s development. Here in Fairfax County, we have several resources available.
PARENT RESOURCE CENTER
Fairfax County Public Schools' Parent Resource Center offers free workshops, consultations, a lending library and other options to help support the success of all children, including those with autism, learning challenges and other special needs.
DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITY SERVICES (DDS)
Virginia has three waivers for individuals with developmental disabilities: Building Independence Waiver, Family and Individual Supports Waiver and Community Living Waiver. To find out if you are eligible for one of these waivers, the first step is to contact your local Community Services Board (CSB) or Behavioral Health Authority (BHA).
When you receive and accept a waiver, you are choosing to have people support you in your home and in your community instead of in a nursing home or other institution.
Who should I contact for an intake?
In Fairfax County, call 703-324-4400 to request a DDS intake.
How long is the wait before a waiver slot is identified?
The Developmental Disability (DD) Waiver Waitlist is a needs-based list. It is not chronological. Therefore, a timeline of how long an individual will remain on the waitlist before receiving a DD waiver is unknown. Please refer to our Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Services' “Navigating the DD Waiver Manual” for detailed information.
Groups to connect with other parents who support children with autism:
- Parents of Autistic Children of NOVA POAC-NOVA – Parents of Autistic Children of Northern Virginia
- Autism Society of NOVA Support Programs - Autism Society of Northern Virginia (asnv.org)
The Sensory Room at the Providence Community Center provides a relaxing and calming environment for individuals with autism and other developmental disabilities. A combination of lights, sounds, textures, swings, musical chairs and other interactive elements provide numerous benefits including:
- Improved communication and social skills.
- Enhanced concentration, focus and memory.
- Increased leisure opportunities.
- Reduced stress.
“Logan is the best Service Coordinator/Case Manager that I have had the pleasure of working with. She is kind, knowledgeable, professional, reassuring, and caring. This has been a very rough patch for our family, but she has skillfully guided us gently down the path and we are very grateful that she is our representative and advocate.” -- Kathy and John, Richmond
Original source can be found here.
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