The stress that occurs when a parent suspects that a toddler is developing in a way that could indicate a delay or a disorder, is potent. Developmental disorders are mysterious to many since they typically do not incur characteristics that are physiologically observable nor carry discrete biological markers that can easily be identified. More importantly, delays can camouflage easily into the broa
d spectrum of child development. However, it is so important to recognize and identify these delays while a child is young and available and responsive to intervention. As important is the acknowledgment of stress incurred by parents during stages of identification and diagnosis and the need for family support. It is critical that parents are supported in the understanding and accepting of a diagnosis, taught strategies to connect to their children, have the skills to navigate access to intervention, and aid in their child’s developmental advancement. For a parent, moving from not knowing how to navigate the situation, to actively having a roadmap to support their child’s development, can make all the difference! Lina Fancy aims to empower parents to not only ensure their child is getting all the supports and services they need, but also how to scaffold their development themselves so that they can do everything they can to holistically support their child’s success. After 20 years in Autism, and as the director of the parent coaching clinic Jumpstart, at the Autism Center of Northern California, Lina Fancy guides parents to REACH, LEARN, CONNECT, and HEAL.
