What Is "Child Find" and Why Should Parents of Children with Autism Care?
- Achieve School For Autism
- May 1
- 4 min read
Updated: May 1
Let’s be real: parenting a child with autism is a full-time superhero gig. Between navigating therapies, advocating for your child, and researching every new developmental milestone, it’s a lot. But what if there was a federal mandate, yes, a legal requirement, that could help you get the support your child deserves without having to figure it all out on your own?
Cue the music and enter: Child Find.
What Is Child Find?
Child Find is part of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), a federal law that says, “Hey schools, it’s your job to find and evaluate all children who may need special education services.” That’s right: they have to. It’s not a favor. It’s the law.
According to IDEA, public schools must identify, locate, and evaluate children from birth through age 21 who have (or might have) disabilities, including autism. That means your child does not have to be enrolled in a public school to qualify. Homeschooled kids, private school students, even toddlers at home... they're all covered.
And the best part? The evaluation is free.
Who Does Child Find Help?
Child Find helps any child suspected of having a developmental delay or disability. This includes, but isn’t limited to:
Children with autism or suspected autism
Kids who have trouble speaking, playing, or socializing
Children struggling with attention, sensory issues, or behavior
Little ones who seem "behind" compared to their peers
Students with learning differences or processing disorders
This also includes children experiencing homelessness, in foster care, or who are otherwise highly mobile. No child is overlooked.
Why Is Child Find Important for Parents of Children with Autism?
Because it’s a fast track to support. If your child is showing signs of autism or already has a diagnosis, Child Find is the gateway to getting services in the school system. Early intervention is everything.
The earlier your child starts receiving support, the better their long-term outcomes.
In fact, the CDC reports that early diagnosis and intervention can significantly improve a child’s development. According to research published in the journal Pediatrics, children who receive early autism interventions show improved IQ, language, and adaptive behavior skills.
Child Find can also give you access to evaluations and educational planning tools like an Individualized Education Program (IEP). That’s a game changer for long-term success.
How Can Parents Access Child Find?
Here’s what to do:
Contact your local public school district. Ask for the Child Find coordinator or the special education department.
Submit a written request for evaluation, describing your concerns. Be specific. List behaviors, delays, or developmental issues.
Stay organized. Keep copies of everything you send or receive. Write down names, dates, and call summaries.
Follow up. Schools must respond within a reasonable timeframe. IDEA sets strict timelines for evaluations and eligibility determinations.
At Achieve School for Autism, widely regarded as the Best School for Autism in Arizona, our team works directly with families to help navigate the Child Find process and secure services that can truly change lives.
What Happens After the Evaluation?
If your child qualifies, the school will develop an Individualized Education Program (IEP) tailored to their unique needs. If your child is under age 3, they may be referred for Early Intervention Services under Part C of IDEA.
This isn’t just paperwork, it’s a roadmap. Your child will have access to accommodations, therapies, and teaching strategies designed to help them thrive.
What If the School Says My Child Doesn’t Qualify?
First, breathe. Then, appeal.
You have the right to challenge decisions. You can request a second opinion, an Independent Educational Evaluation (IEE), or even a due process hearing if needed. You are your child’s most powerful advocate.
And remember, schools must consider evaluations from outside professionals. So if you’ve had a private autism diagnosis, bring that to the table.
What Are Common Myths About Child Find?
Let’s bust a few lies you might’ve heard:
Myth: “I have to wait until my child is school age.” Truth: Nope. Child Find starts at birth.
Myth: “It’s only for public school kids.” Truth: Wrong again. Private school students, homeschoolers, and kids not enrolled anywhere still qualify.
Myth: “It’s going to cost me.” Truth: IDEA mandates that evaluations through Child Find are 100% free.
What Are the Benefits of Child Find for Families?
Peace of mind: You’ll stop second-guessing whether you’re doing “enough.”
Faster access to resources: No more endless waiting lists for evaluations.
Support network: Child Find often connects you with specialists, teachers, and other families walking the same path.
Empowerment: Knowledge is power, and Child Find gives you the tools to advocate effectively.
What Makes Achieve School for Autism a Leader in This Space?
Located in Arizona, Achieve School for Autism is known as the Best School for Autism in Arizona for a reason. We not only guide families through the Child Find process, but we also create personalized education plans that go far beyond compliance. Our team is passionate, knowledgeable, and relentless in our mission to help children with autism succeed in school and in life.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: At what age can I request a Child Find evaluation?
A: From birth through age 21. Earlier is better!
Q: Do I need a medical diagnosis first?
A: No. If you suspect a delay or disability, you can still request an evaluation.
Q: Will this label my child?
A: Labels aren’t the goal; services are. The goal is access to support.
Q: What if English isn’t my first language?
A: Schools are required to provide evaluations and communication in your preferred language.
Q: Can Achieve School for Autism help me with this?
A: Absolutely. We’ll walk with you every step of the way.
Child Find is one of the few parts of the system that puts power directly into your hands. At Achieve School for Autism, we see the magic in your kiddos, and we believe in equipping families with tools, strategies, and helpful guidance.
Interested in seeing what Achieve School for Autism has to offer your child?
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