91,974
children are registered in the Ontario Autism Program
Primary source MCCSS FOI via OAC · May 2026 Verified 2026-11-03
What Is DSO? Developmental Services Ontario Explained
It is the access point for adult developmental services funded by Ontario's Ministry of Children, Community and Social Services, with nine DSO locations across the province.
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What Is DSO? Developmental Services Ontario Explained It is the access point for adult developmental services funded by Ontario's Ministry of Children, Community and Social Services, with nine DSO locations across the province. Get a written psychological assessment, plus proof you live in Ontario and proof of age. Plan for up to 30 minutes on a first call. After DSO confirms you are eligible, an assessor holds two meetings of about three hours each to complete your application and work out your support needs. Bring at least two people who know you well, such as a parent, guardian or teacher. Find your area DSO www.endthewaitontario.com/dso-developmental-services-ontario
Download English captions (WebVTT)It is the access point for adult developmental services funded by Ontario's Ministry of Children, Community and Social Services, with nine DSO locations across the province. A short explainer with music and captions. 51 seconds.
Next
- Running time 0:50 Teens and adults
Aging with Autism: Support for Older Adults in Ontario
Autism can be diagnosed at any age, including in older adults. - Running time 0:54 Teens and adults
Autism and Intellectual Disability: Ontario Services and Support
At 18, Ontario Autism Program eligibility ends and adult supports may become the main pathway. - Running time 0:45 Teens and adults
Kerry's Place vs. Geneva Centre Autism Services
Kerry's Place has province-wide reach and stronger residential and housing supports.
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US$2.4M
Lifetime support costs for autism with co-occurring intellectual disability can reach US$2.4 million per person (Buescher et al.)
Primary source Buescher et al. (2014) Verified 2014-08-01
1 in 50
According to the 2019 Canadian Health Survey on Children and Youth, about 1 in 50 children and youth aged 1 to 17 in Canada had an autism diagnosis
Primary source Public Health Agency of Canada (2024) Verified 2024-03-26
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Last system verification: 2026-11-03. Next scheduled update: 2027-02-01.
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Written by Spencer Carroll
Founder & Autism Advocate
Lived experience: Parent of autistic child in the OAP system