Classes

Autism: First Steps

Autism: First Steps is an introductory program for parents and caregivers of children who have recently been diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Please talk to your Autism Center provider for more information.

Autism: Next Steps

Autism: Next Steps is a three-part class series designed to provide information and support for parents and caregivers who have a child with ASD age 15–21 who is transitioning to adulthood. Please talk to your Autism Center provider for more information.

Autism 101

Autism 101 is a free 90-minute lecture that is offered quarterly and is designed to provide information and support to parents and families of children recently diagnosed with ASD.

Autism 200 series

Autism 200 is a series of free 90-minute classes for parents and caregivers that cover various topics related to autism.

Alyssa Burnett Adult Life Center

The Alyssa Burnett Adult Life Center offers classes for adults age 18 and older with autism spectrum disorder or other developmental disabilities. Classes focus on social activities, recreation, health and wellness, independent living and vocational training. They are taught by topic experts with support from behavior specialists.

Autism Resource Guide

Seattle Children’s Autism Center has compiled a resource directory (PDF) including information about books, multicultural support, evaluation and diagnosis, family resources, support and advocacy.

Summer Camp Directories

Support Group

Sibshops

Sibshops provide peer support and education for brothers and sisters of children with special health or developmental needs, including autism, for siblings ages 6 to 9 and 10 to 13. These are lively events that include fun activities, games, special guests, discussion and information sharing. Sibshops sessions for different age groups are typically offered every other month throughout the school year on Saturdays. For more information or to register, visit our Sibshops page.

Autism Guidebook for Washington State 
This guide was developed as a result of recommendations from the governor-appointed Autism Task Force (ATF), comprised of parents and professionals. It covers a broad range of topics useful for parents, teachers and other professionals.

Autism Society of Washington 
Autism Society of Washington (ASW) promotes lifelong access to appropriate treatment and interventions for individuals with autism spectrum disorders and their families. ASW also advances opportunities for individuals to be fully integrated and participating members of their communities by providing support to families and promoting advocacy, public awareness, education, and dissemination of current research related to autism. The website includes a regularly updated statewide events and training calendar for Washington.

Autism Speaks 
Autism Speaks is the nation's largest autism science and advocacy organization. It is dedicated to increasing autism awareness. It also funds research into causes, prevention, treatments and a cure for autism. Autism Speaks publishes the First 100 Days guide for families in English and Spanish.

Developmental Disabilities Administration (DDA)
DDA is part of the Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS). Any person who has a developmental disability that starts before the age of 18 and is expected to continue indefinitely may be eligible for DDA services. Eligibility is not based on a family’s income. The site includes the application and instructions to fill it out.

Families for Effective Autism Treatment (FEAT of WA)
FEAT is a parent-founded organization offering programs, support and resources. Its purpose is to help children reach their full potential. FEAT publishes a comprehensive resource guide.

Medicaid 
Medicaid is a program that covers medical care to individuals who have low income. It is funded by a federal-state partnership.

My Visit to the Audiology Clinic Social Story (PDF)
This is a printable PDF of a photo story to help your child prepare for a visit to the Audiology Clinic.

Regional Support Network (RSNs)
Washington State is divided into 13 RSNs. All mental health services for people covered by Medicaid are provided via RSNs through a network of contracted mental health providers.

Supplementary Security Income (SSI)
SSI is a federal income supplement program designed to help people with disabilities and the elderly who have little or no income. It is available when a family meets eligibility guidelines and the child meets SSI disability guidelines.

The Arc of Washington 
The Arc of Washington State offers services and programs for people with developmental disabilities such as autism, cerebral palsy, mental retardation, epilepsy and related neurological disorders. There are many local chapters of The Arc. Autism Kingis a large, King County–focused parent listserv that is part of the Parent to Parent program of the Arc.

Washington Autism Alliance & Advocacy (WAAA)
WAAA's mission is to ensure that all children and adults with autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) and other developmental disabilities (DDs) have every opportunity to thrive and become productive members of society. They do this by helping families access ASD and DD health insurance benefits, effective services in schools and supportive community-based services, regardless of their personal financial situation.

Videos

Support the Autism Center