How to get your child tested for Autism in Huntsville, AL

You suspect your child may have Autism. You have read the symptoms, the causes, the treatments. Now you want to have your child tested, but where do you begin? The lists aren't quite so easy to find or understand. Here are some sources to start with-

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  Your child's Pediatrician
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  Your child's teacher
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  Your local Board of Education

Your Pediatrician has been checking your child's development from the very first visit. The Pediatrician will be a very important part of your child's team of Drs during the evaluation process and treatment plan. Get him/her on board early in the process.

Teachers spend a great deal of time with your child. He/she is very interested in your child's well being and wants to help your child get the best education they can. Children with Autism can flourish in the classroom with the right intervention. Again, get your teacher involved early in the process.

The Board of Education is going to be a key partner in evaluating your child. IDEA was originally enacted by Congress in 1975 to ensure that children with disabilities have the opportunity to receive a free appropriate public education. Your Board of Education is keenly interested in your child's education and is required by law to provide evaluation services at no cost to you. So how do you get that service?

NICHCY offers a wonderful explanation of the evaluation process. You must put your request for evaluation in writing and give it to your child's school. At this point, the school system has 60 days to evaluate your child, again at no cost to you.

You may choose to have your child evaluated privately. Insurance will vary on what they will pay for. If you chose this option, speak first to your Pediatrician about evaluation, once he/she gives you a referral, call your insurance and explain what you are looking for and why and ask them to give you detailed information on coverage.

Huntsville, AL resources-

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  Board of Education- Huntsville City Schools 200 White Street Huntsville, AL 35801 256-428-6800
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  Premier Collaborations Child Development Center 1000 Jetplex Blvd. Huntsville, AL 35524 256-464-8405 Contact: Carol Vancil info@appliedbehavioralconcepts.net
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  Huntsville Hospital 101 Sivley Road Huntsville, AL 35801 256-265-1000
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  North Alabama Chapter of Autism Society of America Huntsville, AL  256-251-1005