So you suspect your child is Neurospicy?
In our dreamiest dreams of the future, helping a child who moves about the world in their own way is as simple as making an appointment at the pediatrician. Unfortunately, our healthcare system, particularly in the world pediatric developmental health, can be a tangled web of choices.
Luckily, We here at THBF are here to simplify it for you.
So, you suspect your child is Neurospicy? What do you do first?
If your child is in school, talk to their teachers! Collect information about their behaviors at school. If everyone is generally on the same page that extra help is needed, proceed to step 2.
Obtain MULTIPLE evaluations! At least three! More if you are financially able!
Below are the three places you need to go:
-Developmental Pediatrician: This person will help to give your child a medical diagnosis. Usually, this process will involve multiple visits and a questionnaire for you as well as your child’s teachers. This process is usually covered by insurance
-Your local Regional Center: In the state of CA, we have access to a resource called the regional center. According to their website, these centers are nonprofit private corporations that contract with the Department of Developmental Services to provide or coordinate services and supports for people with developmental issues. Now, there are age-related rules tied to regional center care. Traditionally, regional centers are resources for children below age 3 for all varieties of developmental differences. HOWEVER, when a child passes age 3, If they receive an AUTISM DIAGNOSIS, they can stay a regional center client. So, we recommend obtaining the eval regardless of age. Again, this is FREE.
-Your School District: Usually, this process involves calling you calling your local elementary school and requesting an evaluation. This is only for students 3 AND UP! This process involves an observation of your child at their school, or home if not in school, and questionnaires to be filled out by you and those who work with your child. There will also be an in-person component. Their reults will come in the form of an individualized education plan or IEP, or a 504 B.
Now, all of these above options require you as a parent to be an absolute pain each step of the way. As these options are free, there are many many many many many others also trying to access them. You must be your child’s advocate.
If you are financially able, you can now explore private vendor options! One of the most popular is a pediatric neuropsychologist! As the age-old saying goes, “you get what you pay for.” And in the case of these doctors, the price tag normally hovers around 2-3 thousand for the initial eval and intake process. However, in our experience, this person can not only provide you with vital incites into your child’s behaviors, but also help to act as your advocate. Pediatric Neuropsychologists are there to help as your child navigates school and can help you obtain the right accommodations and services for your child while they are in school.
Receive your diagnosis and review your service plans! Please keep in mind that for the regional center and school district evaluations, you have the option to accept or reject the care plans. Do not feel pressured to sign your care plans right away! If your family feels unsatisfied, consider going back to the table and expressing your needs. If the providers are not accommodating, consider reaching out to an education advocate or if you hired a private evaluator, contacting them to help plead your case. If all else fails, legal action can be taken.
Once your care plans are put in place, establish open lines of communication between your child’s teachers and your child’s new care providers. If everyone who works with your child is in communication, they can be a better support team
BASQUE IN THE GLOW OF A PRIDE, WELL DONE! THE HARDEST PART IS OVER!
