Autism FAQs

What is autism?

- Autism is a complex neurological disorder that affects communication, social reciprocity and presents with obsessive, restrictive and competitive behaviors.

- In 2020, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention issued their ADDM autism prevalence report (based on 2016 surveys). The report concluded that the prevalence of autism has risen to:

- 1 in every 54 births in the United States

- 1 out of every 37 boys & 1 out of every 151 girls

- 4 out of 5 individuals with autism diagnosed will be male.

For more about autism:

- Mayo Clinic

- WebMD

- Autism Society

Are you concerned your child or loved one may have autism?

- Here are some autism red flags that are a good sign you may need to seek the help of a qualified professional: https://theisaacfoundation.configio.com/page/redflags

What should I do after my child receives an autism diagnosis?

- Take a deep breath. Take it one, manageable step at a time and don't panic. The diagnosis didn't change your child. Your child has always been the amazing human being they've always been. Receiving a diagnosis is the first step into getting additional supports and services your child may benefit from.

- Since we get asked this question a lot, the Isaac Foundation has developed a Roadmap to Autism in the Inland Northwest to help families who are just starting out on their journey. No matter where you are in your journey, this could also benefit you. Just click to register and download. It's completely free.

What resources are available for autism in Spokane?

- Along with the Roadmap, we have a working list of local providers in Spokane. Once you download our list, you will get updates as we hear of new providers in our area.

Some other non-profit organizations in Spokane that are specifically autism related are:

- Autism Society of Washington (Spokane Chapter)

- Northwest Autism Center

Other non-profits that also do a lot with the autism community and population are:

- The ARC of Spokane

- Project ID

- Building Ohana

For a more comprehensive list of other agencies in our area please see our resource page.

What is ABA therapy?

- ABA is short for Applied Behavioral Analysis. ABA is a system of autism treatment based on behaviorist theories which, state that desired behaviors can be taught through a system of rewards and consequences. ABA can be thought of as applying behavioral principles to behavioral goals and carefully measuring the results. It can focus on improving specific behaviors, such as social skills, communication, reading, and academics as well as adaptive learning skills, such as fine motor dexterity, hygiene, grooming, domestic capabilities, punctuality and job competence. It has been shown that consistent ABA can significantly improve behaviors and skills and decrease the need for special services.

- Psychology Today

- Very Well

What is occupational therapy?

- Occupational therapists study human growth and development and a person’s interaction with the environment through daily activities. They are experts in the social, emotional, and physiological effects of illness and injury. This knowledge helps them promote skills for independent living in people with autism and other developmental disorders.

- Harkla blog

- WebMD

What services/therapies should I get for my child?

- This is completely up to you. Most believe that early intervention with ABA, OT, Speech, PT, dietary changes, etc (all depending on your child's specific needs) is key to helping your child reach their maximum potential. However, all of this can be time consuming, potentially expensive and challenging for families. We think it's important to ensure that your family can also strike a balance. Talk to your doctor, your child's school and other families that have already been down this road. Every child and every family situation is different. Only you know what is best for your specific situation.

Which providers take my insurance?

- Each individual center or provider will need to be contacted to find out if your insurance is accepted as this can change regularly.

What is an IEP? What is the difference between an IEP and a 504?

- An IEP (Individual Education Program/Individualized Education Plan) is a legally enforceable document ensures that children with disabilities receives specialized instruction, accommodations and supports to help them be successful in school. For an example of some IEP accommodations and supports click here.

For more details about IEPs, here are some websites to check out:

- Understood.org

- Greatschools.org

- Weareteachers.com

-A 504, unlike an IEP plan, is not part of special education so they don't provide individualized instruction. A 504 plan gives kids with learning disabilities, behavioral issues, etc access to the same education their classmates are getting. This is usually done by the way of accommodations that will help the be successful.

For more information about 504 plans, here are a few websites to check out:

- Understood.org

- University of Washington.

What does The Isaac Foundation do to help families touched by autism?

- We are a non-profit 501(c)3 organization based in Spokane, WA. We focus primarily on educational and emotional support programs. We have a nationally accredited first responder training, an equipment lending library and offer low cost, made to order weighted blankets. We try to put on a few family events throughout the year as well. The vast majority of our funding comes from the support of our corporate sponsors and a couple of fundraisers. We couldn't do the work we do without the support of the community!

Do you have a question we don't have an answer to on our website? E-mail us: hello@theisaacfoundation.org