Psychology Building
McMaster University,
Hamilton, ON
L8S 4K1
have your heart go walking outside your body." – Elizabeth Stone
If you think that your child has autism, your first step is to talk to your family doctor. Your doctor will do an assessment or refer you to another professional (for example, a child psychologist) for an assessment and diagnosis.
You may also want to check out www.firstsigns.org, a web site that has a lot of information about screening, resources, a glossary, and even information about how to share your concerns with your physician.
If Your Child Has Autism
Every person with autism is different. Each one has a different set of physical, emotional, behavioural and social issues.
It's important to match your child's needs with treatments and strategies that will help your child. You may have to try a variety of treatments to find out what's effective for your child.
The Ministry of Children and Youth Services funds a range of services and supports for children and youth with autism.
The First Steps
In Ontario, a great place to start looking for information about autism spectrum disorders is Autism Ontario at www.autismontario.com.
Here you can find general information about ASD, find a local parents group in your area, or sign up for their newsletter. There are even some French language resources for Francophone families.
General Links to Start With
About Autism
Autism Facts
Information for Parents
Living with Autism
Even if you don’t live in York you can use the information to guide your own search for services
Additionally call Contact Hamilton for Children's and Development Services
4-140 King E, Hamilton, ON L8N 1B2
Telephone : 905-570-8888
Contact Hamilton (or the city in your area)
Their job is to do an intake over the phone and, if necessary, send an intake worker to your home who can inform you of services available, and help you connect with them.
Some Services You Can Access:
1. Early Words
2. Speech pathologist
3. Easter Seals Ontario, for children with restricted mobility
4. Occupational Therapist for sensory issues or fine motor issues
5. Special Services at Home
6. McMaster Children’s Hospital’s Autism Spectrum Disorder Program
7. Hamilton Respite Services
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