SCREENING AND DIAGNOSIS
TESTING FOR AUTISM: Developmental screening can be done by a number of professionals in health care, community, and school settings. It’s important to know the difference of what each type of evaluation will provide you.
An educational assessment will determine eligibility of resources that your child qualifies for and can start receiving services as early as 3 years old through the school district. A medical diagnosis of an Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) does not automatically entitle a student to special education services.
A medical diagnosis is based on the patient’s history and behaviors. Various experts can make this diagnosis, including some psychologists, pediatricians and neurologists. While a medical diagnosis can provide some insight and determine medical necessity, schools need to conduct their own evaluations to determine educational eligibility and whether there is a need for special education and related services.
Primary care providers have regular contact with children before they reach school age and are able to provide family-centered, comprehensive, coordinated care, including a more complete medical assessment when a screening indicates a child is at risk for a developmental problem.
EDUCATION ASSESSMENT THROUGH CHILD FIND
- Under federal law, public schools must look for, find, and evaluate kids who need special education.
- This is called Child Find, and it covers kids from birth through age 21.
- It applies to all kids, including those who are homeschooled or in private schools, plus kids who are migrants or without homes.
- FBISD Child Find
- LCISD Child Find
- HISD Child Find
DIAGNOSTIC & NEURODEVELOPMENTAL ASSESSMENTS
*Go to Healthcare Accordion for additional providers
RIGHT AFTER THE DIAGNOSIS
UNDERSTANDING THE DIAGNOSIS. WHAT IS AUTISM? Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a complex developmental condition involving persistent challenges with social communication, restricted interests, and repetitive behavior. While autism is considered a lifelong disorder, the degree of impairment in functioning because of these challenges varies between individuals with autism.
UNDERSTANDING THE DIAGNOSIS: Videos
SUPPORT GROUPS and RESOURCE: Receiving an Autism diagnosis is often difficult and overwhelming, so its important to give yourself time to process the diagnosis that you or your loved one just received. When you are ready, connect with a community who understands your feelings to obtain information, resources, and most importantly support.
SCHEDULE MEDICAL RECOMMENDATIONS
- Contact your insurance provider and request to be assigned a Case Manager or an Autism Care Specialist to guide you through the Autism Insurance Journey.
SAFETY RECOMMENDATIONS
TEXAS WAITLIST TO GET ON ASAP
- TEXAS AUTISM PROGRAM for ages 3-15 years
- Harris & Galveston Counties 713-970-7993 [ABA*SkIP Program]
- Harris County 818-345-2345 x4476 or HHSCadmissions@centerforautism.com
- Montgomery, Walker and Liberty Counties 936-521-6291
- Matagorda, Wharton, Austin, Colorado, Waller & Fort Bend Counties 291-239-1497
- TEXAS MEDICAID WAIVER PROGRAM “INTEREST LISTS” [waiting lists] for state services- ARE 10-15+ YEARS LONG:
- Home and Community Support (HCS) & Texas Home Living (TxHmL) Waivers- Matagorda, Wharton, Austin, Colorado, Waller & Fort Bend Counties —Texana 281-239-1300
- Community Living Assistance Program (CLASS),Deaf Blind with Multiple Disabilities (DBMD), Medically Dependent Children’s Program (MDCP), & Community Based Alternatives (CBA) 877-438-5658 for all counties
- Star Plus (HCBS) Waiver – 800-964-2777 and ask for the MDCP Waiver Program
ADVOCACY, GUARDIANSHIP, and FINANCIAL PLANNING
- Autistic Self Advocacy Network
- Disability Rights Texas –Supported Decision Making Alternative
- Makris Law Firm, P.C. –Advocate for Social Security Disability / Supplemental Social Security Benefits
- Partners Resource Network – Empowerment Through Education
- Brazos Bend Guardianship Services
- Provide incapacitated and disabled adults and their families with legal guardianship, money management, and adult guardianship education
- The Handley Law Office Estate Planning (Wills, Trusts, POA, MPOA, HIPAA), Probate, Guardianship, Special Needs Resources
- Shields Law Firm specialize in helping families and individuals with special needs navigate the complex guardianship process
- Consolidated Planning Group
- UNDERSTANDING SSI – SUPPLEMENTAL SECURITY INCOME
- SOCIAL SECURITY DISABILITY INSURANCE–or “Disability” provides monthly payments to people who have a disability that stops or limits their ability to work.
EDUCATION
- 365 BOOK
- ACHIEVE Fort Bend County | Academic Resources
- Collaborative for Children | Early Education in Greater Houston
- Focus Academy | Resources for Academic Success
- Gateway America Preparatory | Focused on Development of the Whole Child
- Kn.I.L.E. Center, LLC | Resources for Academic Success
- Launch Academy | Resources for Academic Success
- Learning Rx Sugar Land | Resources for Academic Success
- Learning Continuum
- Resource Guide on Higher Education for People with Disabilities | Texas Council for Developmental Disabilities
- Shady Oak Primary School
- Texas Special Education Support Website
- The Westview School
- The Joy School
- The Monarch School and Institute
- True Knight Academy
GRANTS AND FINANCIAL AID FOR AUTISM NEEDS
- Autism Rescue Angels | Financial support for families living with autism (Submitting a application is not accessible at this time)
- F.A.C.E.S. | Foundation for Autism Care | Education and Services
- KNOWAutism | Support for families living with autism and other disabilities (Not dispersing funds until May 2023)
- T.A.C.A. | Talk About Curing Autism | Grant Opportunity
- United Healthcare Children’s Foundation | Grant Opportunity
- The Huckleberry Foundation
- The Lellow Foundation
- C.A.R.E. Foundation (California Autism Resource & Evaluation Foundation. Helps families with medication, autism diagnosis/evaluation, therapy sessions (including speech, OT & ABA), or autism summer camps. –
- Oracle Health Foundation – Covers expenses for treatment, equipment, displacement lodging, and vehicle modifications – applications due by the last Wednesday of every month. The grant is for a child that does not have insurance, does not have coverage for ABA on policy, or if there is a limit to the amount of services.
- Modest Needs – Helps families experiencing a financial crisis including medical expenses –
- NSW Kids Program – The Seal Foundation – for Navy Seal families only – Covers direct educational, diagnostic testing, services, and tutoring/mentoring
- National Autism Association – Provides communication devices to individuals with autism who are non-verbal or minimally verbal and whose communication challenges put them at risk of injury or harm –
- The People Project – They accept applications from families in need of financial assistance for their family member(s) with special needs in the state of Texas.
HEALTHCARE
- AccessHealth
- “Dedicated to excellence in providing integrated healthcare services to improve the quality of life in the communities we serve.”
- Ascend Behavior – Diagnostic Evaluations for ages 18-48 months. In home ABA for 6 and under
- Assessment Services at Missouri City Family Counseling
- BWC Healthcare | Assistance to those seeking self-direction with Medicaid service
- Behavioral Health – Televero | Virtual Therapy, Counseling, and Psychiatry
- Dentist- Kids Town Dental| Katy
- Dentist- Larry Caldwell DDS | Sugar Land
- Dentist- C and C Dental| Sugar Land
- Dentist- Artistic Dentistry | Houston
- Hope For Autism
- Houston Specialty Clinic | Sleep Specialists
- Mental Health America of Fort Bend County | Mental Health Care and Resources
- Mental Health Facilities – Houston
- MedCare Pediatric Group | Pediatric Therapy and Nursing
- Night Light Pediatric Urgent Care
- Orthodontist
- Special Kids Care | Pediatric Home Health Specialists
- Texas Children’s Hospital
ADULT RESIDENTIAL AND DAY HABILITATION
Pardon our mess… this section is currently being worked on.
- Residential – Adults Independent and Motivated (AIM)
- Residential – Daymark Living
- Residential – Down Home Ranch
- Residential- Finding Independence by CPSH
- Residential – LTO Ventures
- Residential – Houston Center for Independent Living
- Residential – Community Living Assistance @ Support Services
- Day Habilitation – Ability Plus HCS
- Day Habilitation – All TheLittleThingsCount
- Day Habilitation – The H.E.A.R.T Program
- Day Habilitation – TEXANA Center
- Day Habilitation – SETT: Stafford Educational Training/Treatment Center
- Day Habilitation – Forever Families, Inc
- Day Habilitation*
- Day Habilitation*
- Day Habilitation*
- Day Habilitation*
- Day Habilitation*
- Day Habilitation*
- Day Habilitation*
INFORMATIVE
- Airline Passengers with Disabilities Information
- Association of University Centers of Disabilities – A network of interdisciplinary centers advancing policy and practice for and with individuals with developmental and other disabilities, their families, and communities
- Arc of Fort Bend – Advocacy, support, and services for Fort Bend families living with autism and other disabilities
- Autism Parenting Magazine
- Autism Society Texas Resources –Advocacy, education, information & referrals, support, and community, at national, state & local levels
- Care Connection, Aging & Disability Resource Center, 855-937-2372
- Directory of Community Resources in Texas
- Easter Seals
- Family to Family Network:
- Information on various systems, referrals to community resources, training events on various disability topics
- FEAT : Families for Effective Autism Treatment
- Resources and providing information about Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA)
- Frequently Used Taxonomies
- Various resource categories for your needs
- Holiday Printable
- Homelessness and the Digital Divide:
- Hope For Autism: an insurance reference guide for parents & caregivers
- Reach for Kids Resource Guide
- Safety.com
- Searching 211 Texas Step-by-step:
- “211 Texas, a program of the Texas Health and Human Services Commission, is committed to helping Texas citizens connect with the services they need”
- Social Security: How to Qualify
- Special Family Transitions
- Providing Special Needs Divorce Consulting, Coaching and support
- Texas Council for Developmental Disabilities
- Texas Project First
- TEA resources for parents and families of students with disabilities
SPORTS AND RECREATION
- Baseball – Dream League
- Baseball – League of Champions
- Camp Aranzazu
- Unique camping, environmental education, and retreat experiences for adults and children with chronic illnesses and disabilities
- Camp Blessing
- Christian summer camp ministry designed for children with special needs
- Camp CAMP
- Recreational programming for children and adults with developmental, intellectual, medical, behavioral, and physical disabilities.
- Camp Resources
- Camps For Teens
- Challenge Air
- Flight Experience for Special Needs Children
- DePasquale Travel
- Disability-Friendly Backyard for Kids
- Disney Planning – For a child with disabilities or special needs
- Easter Seals – Camps
- Easter Seals- Extracurricular Activities
- Elijah’s Retreat
- Fort Bend Impact Cheer, Fit, & Tumble
- Fort Bend Martial Arts Academy
- Horseback Riding Therapy
- Horseback Riding Therapy – Reining Strength
- Houston Swim Club
- Katy Wolf Pack – Special Olympics Texas Team
- Lone Star Karate
- Morgan Wonderland (special needs children)
- Sailing Angels Foundation
- Special Olympics – Arc of Fort Bend
- Texas Swim Academy
- TUTS – The River (special needs children)
- Waves of Impact – Surf Camp
- We Rock the Spectrum – Kids’ Gym
- Camp DRIVE- Offers a traditional camp experience to individuals and developmental disabilities
EVALUATION AND THERAPY
- Ascend Behavior (ABA- counseling) – In home ABA up to 6 years.
- Action Behaviors – ABA Clinic
- ALOHA Behavior Telehealth Website
- APARA Autism Center – ABA Clinic
- Avilo
- Michelle Atanu, OTR (Occupation Therapy)
- Behavioral Innovations – ABA Clinic
- Bluebonnet Autism PLLC
- Sonia Malhotra, M.A., BCBA, LBA
- BlueSprig – ABA Therapy
- Building Blocks Texas ABA
- Scout Cobb, M. Ed., BCBA, LBA
- Butterfly Effects
- Transforming Lives Through ABA Therapy
- Camp Worth
- Fast Track ABA Center
- Samantha Katchy, M.A., BCBA, LBA
- Growing Speech
- Kids Connect Occupational Therapy, LLC
- Learning Continuum – Katy
- LearningRx Sugar Land
- MedCare Pediatric Group
- Pediatric Therapy and Nursing
- Neurologic Music Therapy
- RiverKids Pediatric Home Health
- Sensory Solutions 4 Kids, Inc
- Spectacular Kids ABA Therapy & Consulting, LLC
- Stokan, Jaggers & Associates
- Combining psychiatry and counseling services for Katy, TX
- Success On The Spectrum – Missouri City
- Sugar Bend Center – Mental Health Specialists
- Sugar Land Speech and Language
- Teach ABA Learning Center
- Texana Children’s Center for Autism
- Gina Mouser, M.Ed. Special Education/Autism Intervention
- Texas Cares Autism
- The Next Step Academy
- A Day Treatment Center for Children with Autism
- The Speech and Learning Center
- Therapy and Beyond
ADDITIONAL SUPPORT AND SERVICES
- Be An Angel
- Improve the quality of life for children with multiple disabilities or profound deafness by providing needed adaptive equipment and select services.
- Brookwood Community
- Day Program – Providing Spiritual, Educational & Vocational Opportunities for Adults with Special Needs.
- Challenges to Triumphs
- Behavioral Supports and Services
- Consolidated Planning Group
- Special Needs Financial Planning
- Delivering Jobs
- An inclusion campaign dedicated to creating pathways to one million employment and leadership opportunities for people with autism, intellectual and/or developmental differences.
- Missouri City Family Counseling
- Now Offering Online Testing and Evaluations. For more information or to schedule an evaluation.
- Email: info@missouricityfamilies.com
- Call: (832) 500-3563
- New Danville
- High Functioning Special Needs Community
- Next Step Academy
- Day Treatment Center for Children with Autism
- Resume Builder
- Resume and Employment guide for people with disabilities
- Social Motion Skills
- Social skills training focused on personal development
- Social Security Specialist
- Shonbay Jones – Public Affairs Specialist | | 866-407-3164. needs on Retirement, Disability/SSI (Children/Adults), Medicare and other SSA program
- Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) –or “Disability” provides monthly payments to people who have a disability that stops or limits their ability to work.
- Stacy Badon
- STCH Ministries for Family Counseling
- A free resource in the Fort Bend community. They are faith-based and certified.
- Summer House Houston
- Transitional program to adulthood for individuals with disabilities through employment, community engagement, volunteerism, and family Support
- Texana Center
- Tim Jones, Transition Coordinator Authority Division (Admissions):
- United Way Bright Beginnings
COLLEGE PROGRAMS AND CONTACTS
- El Paso Community College, El Paso, Texas: Project HIGHER
- https://www.epcc.edu/Services/csd/project-higher
- Project HIGHER is an innovative program that assists individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (ages 18-25) in El Paso County to complete a level-one certificate at EPCC and find employment in their area of study.
- Lone Star College-Montgomery, Conroe, Texas- LifePATH
- http://www.lonestar.edu/lifePATH.htm
- Lone Star College LifePATH is a four-year comprehensive model of post-secondary educational opportunities for students who have disabilities that affect executive functioning. LifePATH focuses on academic readiness, social expectations, and career exploration.
- Lone Star College- Tomball, Tomball, Texas- LifePATH
- http://www.lonestar.edu/lifePATH.htm
- Lone Star College LifePATH is a four-year comprehensive model of post-secondary educational opportunities for students who have disabilities that affect executive functioning. LifePATH focuses on academic readiness, social expectations, and career exploration.
- University of North Texas, Denton, Texas- UNTWise Applied Learning Lab
- Transition Services and Summer Camps: https://wise.unt.edu/
- University of North Texas, Denton Texas- UNT ELEVAR
- https://elevar.unt.edu
- UNT Elevar (Empower, Learn, Excel, enVision, Advance, Rise) is a four-year inclusive postsecondary education program for students with intellectual disabilities (ID). Following the definition of the program’s name, ELEVAR [lift, soar, rise, in Spanish], the program’s vision is to empower young adults with ID who wish to continue postsecondary education (PSE) to become self-determined, independent, and healthy adults readied for integrated competitive employment. Most importantly, the UNT ELEVAR program welcomes young adults with I/DD to be part of the Mean Green family experience. UNT ELEVAR will seek the Comprehensive Transition Program accreditation from the U.S. Department of Education.
- University of North Texas, Denton, Texas- UNT ENGAGE
- https://neurodiversity.unt.edu/unt-engage
- ENGAGE serves neurodivergent students enrolled at UNT with reaching their academic and vocational goals through person-centered planning and individualized services. Students participate in assessment and planning meetings to identify personal, academic, and vocational goals.
- UT Austin, Austin, Texas- E4 Texas, Texas Center for Disability Services
- https://disabilitystudies.utexas.edu/e4texas
- E4Texas is for people who are 18 years and older and have graduated from high school, or have a GED, and want to be a Personal Care Attendant. This program has training for food handler’s certificates.
- UT Austin, Austin, Texas- UT Informal Classes
- https://informal.utexas.edu/adults-intellectual-and-developmental-disabilities
- UT Informal Classes offers continuing education classes that are designed for students with intellectual disabilities. Time in each class includes meeting with other UT students! Students may also be supported to participate in over 100 additional continuing education courses.
- Palo Alto College, San Antonio, Texas- Project Access
- http://www.alamo.edu/pac/dss
- Cindy Morgan, Senior Coordinator for Disability Support Services: Cgibbs3@alamo.edu– (210)486-3020
- Project Access is a unique program offered to individuals with documented intellectual disabilities. It is designed to support students to access postsecondary education in order to develop skills for gainful employment.
- Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas- LEAP Summer Program
- https://cdd.tamu.edu/education/project-leap/
- The Leadership, Employability, and Advocacy Project (LEAP) will select 30 youth, aged 14-22 at each event, from qualified applicants across the State of Texas. To be selected, applicants must be between the ages of 14-22 at the time of the event, be entering 8th-12th grade during the school year, and must not have graduated/left high school or a district post-secondary program. Students in post-secondary programs such as 18+ are also strongly encouraged to apply!
- Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas- Aggie ACHIEVE
- https://aggieachieve.tamu.edu
- Aggie ACHIEVE (Academic Courses in Higher Inclusive Education and Vocational Experiences) is a four-year inclusive higher education program for young adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities to expand their interests and prepare for inclusive employment in the community.
- Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas- PATHS
- http://paths.tamu.edu
- The PATHS Certificate Program (Postsecondary Access and Training in Human Services) leads to a successful career as a Direct Support Professional General (DSP-G), a Direct Support Para-Paraprofessional (DSP-P) or a Child Care Professional (CCP).
- Texas A&M University, San Antonio, Texas- Tu Casa
- http://paths.tamu.edu
- Mariya Davis: mdavis@tamusa.edu- (210)784-2517
- The TU CASA model is designed to provide students with intellectual disabilities a true university experience while gaining the skills and knowledge needed to transition to independent adult lives. TU CASA addresses the critical needs in the community by establishing a sustainable program that: (a) provides 18 months of fully inclusive PSE opportunities with access to typical and specialized A&M-SA services and supports; (b) offers a meaningful credential upon completion that addresses academic, employment, and independent living domains; (c) utilizes a person-centered approach to meet unique student needs and enhance their quality of life; (d) employs comprehensive program evaluation; and (e) includes a plan for replication on regional and state levels.
- West Texas A&M University, Canyon, Texas- Where the Learning Continues (WTLC)
- http://wtamu.edu/wtlc
- Where the Learning Continues (WTLC) at West Texas A&M University is a higher education experience committed to empowering stuents with intellectual disabilities by strengthening their academic knowledge, social skills, and unique abilities in a way that nurtures confidence and inspire independence.
- Tarrant County College- First Choice
- http://www.tccd.edu/academics/cie/preparatory-education/transitional-skills
- The First Choice Program on Southeast Campus empowers you with the tools you need to confront challenges as you transition from dependency to independent living. We also provide specialized training and education if you want to enhance your livelihood without taking standard college courses.
- Austin Community College, Austin, Texas- ACC STEPS
- http://austincc.wixsite.com/accsteps
- ACC STEPS is a two-year program for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities interested in gaining skills to enter the workforce or continue to develop their education.
- Arlington Baptist University, Arlington, Texas- Green Oaks Life Prep
- https://www.greenoaksinc.org/programs/green-oaks-life-prep.cfm
- Three-year intensive training program focused on independent living skills, skill-based training in horticulture and culinary arts/hospitality industries and applied learning through internships.
- Alvin Community College, Alvin, Texas- STRIVE
- http://www.alvincollege.edu/CEWD/Vocational-Training
- Mary Vlahovich: STRIVE@alvincollege.edu- (281)756-5714
- STRIVE is a two-year college program for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The program provides vocational training with the end goal of the student obtaining a job. This is not an accredited college degree program.
- Houston Community College, Houston, Texas- VAST Academy
- http://VAST.hccs.edu
- VAST Academy provides post-secondary transition programs and comprehensive support services which lead to meaningful credentials, employment and independence for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities on three campuses of Houston Community College. Opportunities indluce vocational certificates, pre-college and freshman success “bridge” courses, career readiness credentials, internships and employment assistance offered through an inclusive, relevant, and affordable avenue.
- Dallas College, El Centro Campus, Dallas, Texas- The Moving On/Next Step Program
- https://alt.elcentrocollege.edu/programs/continuing-education-next-step-moving-on
- Thomas Murray: (214)860-5940
- This program is specifically designed for students with learning disabilities. Courses are intended to prepare students for the workplace by teaching them interpersonal skills and basic work-related academic and computer skills, along with essential career awareness and job search skills needed for independence. Classes span from two to four semesters, based on individual needs and scheduling requirements. Student eligibility is determined by an interview/assessment conducted by the program coordinator. To ensure individual success and educational effectiveness, enrollment is limited to 14 students per class.
- Dallas College, Richland Campus, Dallas, Texas- Richardson ISD Transition Partnership
- https://www.dcccd.edu/resources/disability-services/pages/default.aspx
- Richland has a partnership with Richardson ISD. Students with IDD have the option to transition to college, while still recieving support from the school district. Students attend classes on Tuesday and Thursday on the college campus. Students take 2-3 classes and recieve tutoring. Additionally, the TRI program is available, which was designed for students with TBI. Students with IDD are allowed to take some of these coures too.
- Lee College, Baytown, Texas- Life Skills for Intellectually Disabled Students
- www.lee.edu/workforce/ce/enrichment-rec-fitness/
- https://www.highered.texas.gov/apps/IDD/
- Designed for the developmentally disabled adult to enrich and enhance adult life, this course provides students with a wide variety of skills, including functional skills in computer technology, basic math and reading, and leisure time activities. Students must be 21 years of age or older and NOT enrolled in public school. Beginners and/or returning students are welcome. Pre-registration with Lee College Center for Workforce and Community Development is required before attending class.
- Navarro College, Corsicana, Texas- The Elevate Program
- https://www.highered.texas.gov/apps/IDD/
- The Elevate Program serves students with cognitive and learning disabilities, ages 18-21, who are enrolled in local K-12 schools. They spend half a day attending classes at Navarro College and half a day on a job site. During their time on campus at Navarro College, students take courses that focus on improving work-related reading and communication skills. Additionally, students are enrolled in a physical activity course. Upon completion of all courses, a Continuing Education Certificate of Completion for Marketable Skills will be awarded.
- Texas Tech University, Lubbock, Texas- Connections for Academic Success and Employment (CASE Program)
- https://www.depts.ttu.edu/burkhartcenter/case/
- The CASE Program assists students with autism and other developmental disabilities to navigate college, to empower them to reach their postsecondary academic goals, and to find competitive employment after graduation. The CASE Program offers an innovative college support program for students diagnosed with autism and other developmental disabilities pursuing an academic degree at Texas Tech University or South Plains College in West Texas. With the support of the Burkhart Center for Autism Education Research, CASE provides research-based, customized supports for students to facilitate their successful transition to college and the entrance into competitive employment after graduation.
- The University of Oklahoma- SOONER WORKS
- https://www.ou.edu/education/centers-and-partnerships/zarrow/sooner-works
- Sooner Works is a transition program at the University of Oklahoma for students with an intellectual disability. It provides an integrated postsecondary educational and employment experience.
- Highline College, Kent, Washington- ACHIEVE Program
- https://achieve.highline.edu/
- ACHIEVE is a comprehensive post-secondary transition program that includes credit and non-credit classes, intensive advising, involvement in campus life, community-based internships, and assistance with job placement.
- Additional Texas College Information:
- https://www.highered.texas.gov/plan-pay-complete-college/exploring-college-options/
- https://www.appliedbehavioranalysisprograms.com/colleges-for-students-autism/
- Additional Out of State Programs:
- https://thinkcollege.net/
WEATHER PREPAREDNESS
What does your family and child with a disability need in an emergency?
Every situation is different, and each child has individual needs. To get started, here are questions to think about:
-
- Depending on the disaster and personal needs, will you:
- Stay and shelter-in-place;
- Go to a public shelter; or
- Somewhere else?
- Plan for all possibilities.
-
- How will family members communicate if separated and local phone service is unavailable?
- Have you discussed emergency planning with your child’s health care providers?
- Did you pre-register with 2-1-1 if you need help to evacuate?
- Are there supplies that need refrigeration?
- Is there equipment that requires electricity?
- Have you notified the utility company?
- What service animals or pet supplies do you need?
- By Texas law, public shelters must allow service animals.
- Confirm with your state if public shelters allow service animals.
Download a Disaster Supply Checklist for a full list of items you might need in a disaster.
- Hurricane Preparation Tips
- https://nationalautismassociation.org/hurricane-preparation-tips/
- Family Communication Plan
- https://www.ready.gov/sites/default/files/2022-05/family_communications_plan_parents.pdf
- Emergency Financial First Aid Kit
- https://community.fema.gov/PreparednessCommunity/s/emergency-financial-first-aid-kit?language=en_US
Preparing Makes Sense for People with Disabilities and Special Needs.
Get Ready Now. Disaster Facts, Resource Library, Activities, Visuals, Build-a-Kit
Administration for Strategic Preparedness & Response
Personal Preparedness for Individuals with Disabilities:
Sheltering in Place and Evacuation
https://aspr.hhs.gov/at-risk/Pages/shelter_in_place.aspx
FEMA: Page 13: Disaster Awareness for People with Disabilities
https://www.fema.gov/sites/default/files/documents/fema_r2-region-2-preparedness-and-resilience-webinars-all-2023.pdf
Recording: https://fema.cosocloud.com/phtm0p7yn5x9/
Emergency Preparedness for Families with Children with Special Health Care Needs (Example in Texas, research your state)
https://www.dshs.texas.gov/maternal-child-health/programs-activities-maternal-child-health/cshcn-systems-development-group/emergency-preparedness-families-children
Disaster Assessment and Recovery (Example in Texas, research your state)
https://texashelp.tamu.edu/after-a-disaster-guidebook/
DISCLAIMER:
Blessed Be Hope For Three, Inc dba Hope For Three provides resources, referrals, education, and information to the autism community created by other public and private experts, professionals, businesses, and organizations. Instruction is provided for a user’s convenience. We do not control or guarantee this information’s accuracy, relevance, timeliness, or completeness. The inclusion of any link(s) is for the consumer, parent, caregiver, or guardian to gain knowledge and insight to make educated and informed decisions. It is not intended to reflect importance or endorse views expressed or products or services offered by any vendor, person, or company.