Updated October 20, 2026

If you have questions about your child’s communication, play, behavior, or development, you do not need to figure everything out alone. Start by sharing your concerns and asking what support may be available.

1. Talk with your child’s healthcare provider

Bring specific examples of what you are noticing, when it happens, and any changes over time. Ask about developmental screening and whether a specialist evaluation is appropriate. A checklist or a single behavior does not establish an autism diagnosis.

If your child loses skills they previously used, such as words or social responses, contact their healthcare provider promptly. A change in skills deserves evaluation rather than an assumption about its cause.

2. Explore support while you wait

You may be able to request developmental services before an autism evaluation is complete. Some services, such as support for a language delay, do not require a formal autism diagnosis. Requirements for insurance-funded ABA may differ, so ask the provider and health plan what documentation is needed.

3. Use the right starting point for your child’s age

Birth to 36 months: Florida Early Steps is a starting point for early intervention information and referrals. Ask about an evaluation and eligibility for services.

Age three and older: Contact your local school district’s Exceptional Student Education (ESE) or Child Find team to ask about an evaluation and available educational supports. You can ask even if your child is not yet in kindergarten or does not attend a public school.

Early support can be valuable, but families seeking help later have not missed their only opportunity. Intervention at other ages can also be helpful.

4. Choose goals that fit your child

Support may include ABA, speech-language services, occupational therapy, educational services, or other care based on assessed needs. Ask providers how their recommendations relate to your child’s strengths, interests, daily activities, and your family’s priorities.

Useful goals might include communicating a need, taking part in a familiar routine, or building independence. Ask how progress will be tracked and when the plan will be reviewed. Benefits vary, and no provider should promise a specific developmental outcome or guarantee that therapy will prevent regression.

5. Keep a simple family checklist

• Write down your questions and examples to discuss with providers.

• Keep copies of evaluations and recommendations.

• Ask about eligibility, costs, waitlists, and next steps.

• Share information between providers and schools with your consent.

• Use our Parent & Family Resources directory to find official organizations and school district contacts.

We can help you understand the ABA process

Contact The Reinforcement Zone to discuss ABA services, current availability, and the steps to begin: 772-304-3514 or [email protected]. Medical and diagnostic questions should be discussed with your child’s qualified healthcare provider.

Helpful sources

CDC: Accessing Services for Autism
CDC: Concerned About Your Child’s Development?
Florida Early Steps