Hi, I have a 2.5 year old boy, diagnosed with Autism and would like to know if any of you guys with special needs kids are in a support group? would you recommend one in the Overland Park area? I am new to this whole thing and don't know where to start. I don't want to pay a website to be able to meet up with other moms.
Also, I am applying for the Autism Waiver.. my head is so full of to-do's and information that I don't clearly understand what it is about. I need some info please as to what it is or offers. What is a PID? And how do I get a Para to help my son when it is time for him to go to elementary school? I am so confused and overwhelmed at the moment.
Thanks you guys for all the support you have shown me, and still are... <3
Thanks Aunt Mel!! I really appreciate the time you took to look it up. I will go online now. ((hugs))
My son gets therapy (SLP and OT) once a week through Infant Toddler Services of Johnson County/Early Childhood and so far it has made a big difference. I stopped working to take my son out of daycare so that I could give him more time at home and to work with him on a one-on one basis. That has helped allot too.
Infant Toddler Services said that on his 3rd birthday they will no longer be involved with his therapy, but that they will get the ball rolling for him to go to the Blue Valley district Elementary School near our house. (Indian Valley Elementary). So I think they will take care of that for me.
As for the rest I am still feeling around in the dark, trying to find my way, asking questions and doing research.. I just wish there was a clear cut list of what to do next.
Thank you guys for your answers and words of encouragement and support. It really makes a difference and helps allot to know I am not the only one.
Hugs!!
You might want to try--
Autism Society - The Heartland
PO Box 860984
Shawnee, KS 66286-0984
Phone:
###-###-#### (voice mail)
Email:
General Information: ____@____.com
As they have support groups all over the Kansas City area.
I just googled OP for you...here what I came up with...
http://www.asaheartland.org/community/events/support-grou...
http://autism.meetup.com/cities/us/ks/overland_park/
As far as a Para...when you go to enroll they will probably have you fill out a ton of paperwork...at that point make sure you have all your doctor infomration (letters ,etc) and tell the school he will need a para...
What school district are you in? Shawnee Mission or Blue Valley? Both districts offer early childhood services. Contact them immediately! They can help you navigate the IEP process and have so much to offer your son.
Good luck to you- make a list to clear your head and take it one step at a time. Call your district first and they can help you with the next step.
