When a child receives a diagnosis of autism, Asperger syndrome, or "other pervasive developmental disorder" parents and family members may experience a range of feelings. These feelings can include grief, denial, anger, fear, and confusion. If you are a parent or caregiver, and even if you suspected something was wrong, you may feel or have felt these emotions. As your journey begins, we want you to know that you are not alone.
There are numerous autism networks across Illinois and we can put you in touch with other parents, caregivers and educators of children with autism… people who understand how you are feeling now, because they have experienced it themselves. They can help you learn how to cope, find local resources to assist you, share information on treatment, and lend a friendly ear.