Receiving an Autism Diagnosis: A Guide for Parents Starting the Journey

Receiving an Autism Diagnosis: A Guide for Parents Starting the Journey

If you’ve just received the news that your child is autistic, you might be feeling a flood of emotions, like relief, worry, confusion, or even grief. These feelings are all valid, and they may come in waves. Take a deep breath. You’re not alone, and you’re already taking an important first step by seeking guidance and support.

At AKIDemix, we believe a diagnosis is not a label, it’s a lens. It helps you understand your child more clearly and opens the door to tailored support, connection, and empowerment. This guide is here to help you begin that journey with heart, hope, and helpful tools.

1. Processing the Diagnosis: Holding Space for Your Emotions

An autism diagnosis can come with many emotions, sometimes all at once. You may feel shocked, unsure of what this means for your child’s future, or you may feel a sense of clarity that explains things you've noticed for a long time.

Here are a few things to remember:

You didn’t cause this. Autism isn’t the result of parenting choices, it’s a natural neurodevelopmental difference.

Your child hasn’t changed. The diagnosis doesn’t redefine who they are. It simply gives you a new way to understand and support them.

You’re allowed to grieve and celebrate. Grief often stems from shifting expectations, not from your child’s reality. And there is so much to celebrate in your child’s uniqueness and growth.

🧡 Consider journaling, therapy, or connecting with other parents to process your feelings in a safe space. The more supported you feel, the more present you can be for your child.

2. What to Do After a Diagnosis in Canada

Navigating next steps can feel overwhelming—but there is a roadmap. Here’s what to focus on first:

Speak with Your Healthcare Team

Your child’s pediatrician, psychologist, or diagnosing professional can guide you toward:

Referrals for speech, occupational, and behavioural therapy

Provincial funding programs

Assessments for additional support needs

Explore Provincial Support Programs

Canada’s autism services are organized by province. Many offer funding, therapy access, and service navigation support. A few examples:

Ontario Autism Program (OAP) – Funding and caregiver supports

BC Autism Funding – Direct funding for approved services

Alberta FSCD – Family Support for Children with Disabilities

You can find more province-specific resources at Autism Canada.

Get on Waitlists And Stay Informed

Many families experience long wait times for therapy and government-funded services. Get on waitlists early.

Coming Soon: The AKIDemix Care Network
We're building a trusted directory of professionals, tools, and services to help families like yours find local and virtual support without the overwhelm. Stay tuned!

3. Taking Care of You Is Part of the Process

Caring for a child with diverse needs can be beautiful and fulfilling but also exhausting. You deserve support just as much as your child does.

Here’s how to protect your own well-being during this time:

Find your people. Parent support groups (online or local) can be life-changing.

Set boundaries. You don’t have to explain everything to everyone. Protect your energy.

Seek counselling if needed. A mental health professional can help you work through big emotions and caregiving stress.

Celebrate small victories. These will anchor you in joy and connection.

You’re doing your best, and that’s enough.

4. Tools & Resources That Can Help (Coming Soon)

At AKIDemix, we’re creating practical, sensory-friendly tools designed with neurodiversity in mind because we believe every child deserves to thrive with dignity and joy.

  Launching Soon:

Sensory tools – For calming, focus, and sensory regulation

Visual routine tote bags – For smoother transitions (bedtime, school, outings)

Adventures on the Spectrum – A social story series that helps kids understand emotions, routines, and their own unique strengths

Printable visuals & schedules – To support communication and daily routines

 These tools will be available soon on our website. Be sure to follow us @Akidemix or join our newsletter for updates.

5. You’ve Got This, And We’ve Got You

This diagnosis may have felt like a curveball but it can become a compass. You’re learning to see and support your child in a way that honours who they are.

AKIDemix is here to walk with you—through products, shared stories, and community. Whether you're looking for tools or just a reminder that you're doing great, we’re in your corner.

🧡 Questions or need support? Connect with us at info@akidemix.com or join the conversation on Instagram @Akidemix.