The Essentials...

The Essentials: A Starter Guide After an Autism Diagnosis

When your child first receives an autism spectrum disorder (ASD) diagnosis, it can feel overwhelming. Information starts coming at you from all directions. Doctors, therapists, family members, and of course the endless rabbit hole that is Google. It can quickly become too much.

I remember those early days clearly. Trying to understand the diagnosis, researching therapies, and figuring out what products or tools might actually help—it felt like a lot to process all at once.

Because of that experience, I had the idea to create a simple “starter kit” for parents and caregivers who are just beginning this journey. These are some of the first steps and essential tools that helped us when Addy was first diagnosed—and many of them are still helpful today.

1. Assemble a Team

This is probably the most important step, which is why it’s number one.

Every child’s team will look different, but having professionals you trust makes a huge difference. Start by finding a doctor who understands autism and listens to your concerns. From there, you may build a team of therapists that can include:

• ABA therapy

• Occupational Therapy (OT)

• Physical Therapy (PT)

• Speech-Language Pathology (SLP)

Each child’s needs are unique, and the right team can help guide you through therapies, tools, and strategies that work best for your child. (See blog post about finding the right doctors)

2. Starting Equipment & Accessories

When Addy was first diagnosed, I remember feeling overwhelmed by all the products marketed toward children with autism. Some seemed helpful, while others felt like gimmicks.

Over time, through trial and error, we found certain items that truly made a difference. My personal philosophy is simple: try what feels right for your child and family, and don’t be afraid to rule things out if they don’t work.

Here are a few tools that became essential for us.

Weighted Blanket

At first, I didn’t really understand how a weighted blanket could help. Now we own several, and Addy sleeps with one every night. (Link here)

According to research, weighted blankets provide deep pressure stimulation, which can have a calming effect for some children. Many blankets use evenly distributed beads within quilted pockets to provide gentle pressure.

For some children, this can help with:

• relaxation

• better sleep

• reducing anxiety

If your child tends to get warm, there are breathable or cooling versions available.

Always consult with your child’s doctor or therapist before introducing a weighted blanket.

Compression Clothing

When Addy was younger, she would often crash her body onto the floor. At first it was confusing—why would she do that? She was seeking sensory input.

Thankfully, that behavior has improved tremendously. Now, instead of crashing, she simply asks for hugs or squeezes—which I’m always happy to give.

Getting to this point took time, therapy, and learning how her body processes sensory input. Occupational therapy played a huge role in helping her recognize what her body needs and how to regulate herself.

In addition to therapy, we found compression clothing helpful. Addy wears compression pants from Kozie Clothes and a SPIO vest daily. These provide gentle pressure that helps her feel more regulated.

Chewy Necklaces & Bracelets

At one point, Addy put everything in her mouth.

And when I say everything, I mean everything—from toys to scissors to her own fingers. She was seeking oral sensory input.

With guidance from our therapy team, we introduced chewy necklaces and bracelets. I’ll be honest—I was hesitant at first. But these tools made a big difference.

They helped redirect the mouthing behavior safely, and over time the habit decreased significantly.

Today, Addy still wears them occasionally, but more as accessories than necessities. We use durable ones that are dishwasher-safe and difficult to chew through for safety. (Link here)

Headphones

Addy experiences hyperactivity to sound, meaning certain environments can quickly become overwhelming. School assemblies, musicals, and other loud events were especially difficult. She would become restless or simply tell us, “Too loud.”

We recently purchased noise-reducing headphones for her, and they have been a game changer. Now she can participate in activities she enjoys without becoming overwhelmed by sound. Sometimes a small tool can make a big difference. (Link here)

3. Familiar Faces

Another essential piece of this journey is community. Finding people who understand what you’re going through can make a world of difference. Support networks help both you and your child feel less alone.

One helpful resource we found was KidList, which shares sensory-friendly events and activities for children with disabilities. Many of these events are designed for smaller groups to reduce noise and overstimulation while allowing kids to move around freely. We also have a dedicated section called Events & Programs highlighting classes designed for special need kids and their families.

These types of inclusive experiences can open doors for families and help children participate in activities that might otherwise feel overwhelming.

Final Thoughts

As special needs parents, there will always be moments of uncertainty, questions, and challenges along the way.

After nearly ten years of research, sleepless nights, and a lot of trial and error, I’ve learned that there is no perfect formula. What works for one child may not work for another.

But if sharing our experience helps even one parent feel a little less overwhelmed, then it’s worth it.

I hope these tools and suggestions help ease some of the unknowns and bring comfort—not only to your child, but to you as a parent, caregiver, and family member.

With love,

Raising Addy

(Note: Some links may be affiliate links, meaning I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.)