While waiting 2-5 years for OAP services, access free resources: Autism Ontario programs, ConnectABILITY.ca learning tools, school IEP accommodations, public library autism kits, and community recreation programs. Apply for Disability Tax Credit, join parent support groups, and document everything. Use this time strategically - your child's development doesn't wait.
Average waitlist time
Free resources available
Critical intervention window
Call 1-888-284-3627 immediately after diagnosis. Every day matters.
Request IEP meeting. Email is best for documentation. CC the principal.
Get T2201 form signed by diagnostician. Worth $15,000+ over childhood.
Free membership. Connect with local chapter for programs and parent support.
Start a binder. Keep copies of all reports, emails, wait time notifications. You'll need this.
Free online learning hub with visual supports, social stories, behavior strategies, and parent training modules. Developed by Autism Ontario and Surrey Place.
Provincial organization with local chapters. Free membership includes workshops, social programs, parent support groups, and resource navigation.
Many Ontario libraries offer autism resource kits, sensory toys for lending, adapted programming, and quiet spaces.
Free drop-in programs for children 0-6 and caregivers. Inclusive programming with trained staff. Good for early social exposure.
24/7 support for children and families. Professional counselors available by phone, text, or chat. Good for crisis moments.
Free online programs and resources. Their parent webinars and video library cover many practical topics.
Under the Ontario Human Rights Code and Education Act, your child has the right to accommodations that allow them to access education. Schools must provide reasonable accommodations and cannot refuse to enroll a student due to disability.
1:1 or shared support in classroom
School SLP assessment and strategies
Quiet space, fidgets, movement breaks
Schedules, timers, social stories
Adapted expectations if needed
Subject: IEP Meeting Request - [Child's Name]
Dear [Principal/Teacher],
My child [Name] has been diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (report attached). I am requesting an IEP meeting within 30 days to discuss accommodations and supports.
Please confirm receipt and proposed meeting dates.
Thank you,
[Your Name]
While professional therapy is ideal, you can support your child's development at home. These strategies are based on ABA principles and can be used by any caregiver. Consistency is key.
Picture schedules, choice boards, first-then boards
Use clear, short phrases. Avoid idioms.
Give 5-10 seconds to process and respond
Narrate activities and model words they need
Reward desired behaviors immediately
Same order for daily activities
"5 more minutes" with timer
Track what happens before challenging behaviors
Hand washing = 6 steps with visuals
Show videos of skills being performed
Help with all but last step first
Teach tooth brushing at brushing time
Use for new situations (free at ConnectABILITY)
Start short with preferred activities
Practice conversations and responses
Find groups related to child's special interests
Home strategies complement but don't replace professional therapy. Intensive ABA by qualified BCBAs produces better outcomes. Use these strategies while waiting, but continue advocating for comprehensive services. If behaviors are dangerous or you're struggling, contact Urgent Response at 1-866-257-5005.
Up to $9,000/year in tax savings. Enables RDSP. Apply with T2201 form.
Up to $3,322/year (2025) if DTC approved. Tax-free.
Up to $90,000 government grants over lifetime. Requires DTC.
For working families with disabled child.
$5,000-$55,000/year. 2-5 year wait.
Up to $500/month for extraordinary costs. Income tested.
Funding for respite and support workers. Waitlisted.
Tax credits for energy, property tax, sales tax.
Check for psychology, SLP, OT coverage. Usually $500-$2,000/year per service.
Easter Seals, PC Children's Charity, Rotary clubs sometimes fund therapy or equipment.
Claim therapy costs not covered by insurance. 15% federal + provincial credit.
Raising a child with autism while navigating broken systems is exhausting. Parent burnout is real. Studies show 80% of autism parents experience clinically significant stress. You cannot pour from an empty cup. Seeking support is not weakness - it's wisdom.
Advocacy updates and parent community
Toronto Autism Parents, Ottawa Autism Support, Ontario Autism Families
Global community with Ontario parents
Programs specifically for siblings
"My Brother Charlie", "All About My Brother"
Through community health centers
Free resources include: Autism Ontario programs (parent workshops, social groups), ConnectABILITY.ca learning modules, school board special education services, Ontario Early Years Centres, public library autism kits, and Ontario Parks accessible programs. Many organizations offer sliding scale fees based on income.
While waiting: 1) Request IEP at school immediately, 2) Join Autism Ontario for support and workshops, 3) Use ConnectABILITY.ca free resources, 4) Apply for Disability Tax Credit, 5) Document everything for advocacy, 6) Consider affordable private options if possible, 7) Practice strategies at home with online guidance.
Request an IEP (Individual Education Plan) meeting immediately upon diagnosis. Schools must provide accommodations. Ask about: Educational Assistant support, specialized programs, speech/OT consultations, sensory accommodations, and modified curriculum. Contact your school board Special Education department.
Yes. Contact your regional Developmental Services Ontario (DSO) office for respite funding information. Some OAP Childhood Budget can fund respite. Community Living organizations and autism service agencies often provide respite programs. Wait times vary by region.
Resources include: Autism Ontario parent support groups (free), ConnexOntario 1-866-531-2600 for mental health referrals, family counseling through community health centers, online support groups (Facebook), and some Employee Assistance Programs. Parent burnout is real - seek help.
Using these resources while waiting is necessary but not sufficient. Join our campaign to demand the timely, funded services every Ontario child deserves.
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endthewaitontario.com/while-you-wait-resources