TRIAD Autism Parent Support & Education Program
        
     
    
        
    
    
        Project Description:
        Recent research has indicated that children with autism can be diagnosed accurately at the age of 2 years. In addition, studies of early intervention have revealed that children with autism can make significant-and sometimes dramatic-gains in cognitive, social, behavioral, and language functioning when they take part in appropriately specialized programs. These recent findings highlight the importance of recognizing the early signs of autism. The Parent Support and Education Program (PSEP) provides diagnostic services for children who are thought to be at risk for autism.  PSEP was created to provide an additional resource for families needing a diagnostic visit for their child. PSEP offers scholarships that are based on family income so it is accessible to many families. The best indicators of this program's benefits come from parents who have completed the PSEP program. Many parents have expressed relief that once they received the diagnosis they came back to discuss the findings with someone. Parents feel empowered by the information that they receive. Since each child is an individual, PSEP is tailored toward individual strengths and weaknesses. Early identification will expand opportunities for these children. 
     
    
        Keyword(s):
        autism,  vanderbilt,  evaluation,  Stone
     
    
        Core Function(s):
        Performing Technical Assistance and/or Training, Performing Research or Evaluation, Developing & Disseminating Information
     
    
        Area of Emphasis
        Education & Early Intervention, Health-Related Activities, Other
     
    
        Target Audience:
        Students/Trainees (long or intermediate trainees), Family Members/Caregivers, Children/Adolescents with Disabilities/SHCN
     
    
        Unserved or Under-served Populations:
        Racial or Ethnic Minorities, Disadvantaged Circumstances, Limited English, Geographic Areas, Rural/Remote, Urban, Specific Groups
     
    
        Primary Target Audience Geographic Descriptor:
        State, Regional
     
    
    
        COVID-19 Related Data:
        
                N/A