Resources
Autism Support Resources in Chicago, IL
Local Connections, Tools, and Guidance for Families Navigating Autism
Chicago Autism Network
This nonprofit is based right here in Chicago and is dedicated to helping families find and afford effective autism services. They offer financial assistance, resource referrals, and updated local service directories.
Autism Speaks
This national organization offers a wide range of tools and information, from understanding autism to exploring treatment options and advocacy.
Screening Tool
A helpful online questionnaire to help parents identify signs of autism and determine whether further evaluation may be needed.
TACA (The Autism Community in Action)
TACA offers education, support, and a sense of community for families of individuals with autism. Their website provides access to parent mentors, conference information, and educational materials.
The Arc of Illinois
This statewide advocacy group supports individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. They help families access services, funding, and legal advocacy.
Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA)
This federal law ensures free and appropriate public education for children with disabilities. Knowing your rights under IDEA can be especially helpful during school meetings or IEP development.
Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE)
Special Education
This page provides state-specific information about special education programs and services in Illinois, including early intervention and public school accommodations.
Neighborhood Parent Network
Based in Chicago, NPN provides a wide array of resources for parents, including discussion forums, event listings, and parenting tools. It’s especially useful for families looking for a broader sense of community support.
ADDitude Magazine
While primarily focused on ADHD, ADDitude offers overlapping resources on executive functioning, behavior support, and parenting strategies that are often helpful for families with children on the autism spectrum.
Carmen P. Valentino
Healthcare Solutions Team
Navigating insurance and securing ABA coverage can be one of the biggest challenges. Carmen Valentino is a local insurance broker who specializes in finding the right healthcare plans for families and small businesses, including those with behavioral health needs.
BCBA Code of Ethics
This document outlines the professional and ethical standards all Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs) are expected to uphold. At Serendipity Behavioral Services, we adhere closely to these standards in every aspect of our work.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know which resources are best for my family?
Are all of these resources free?
Can you help me prepare for an IEP or school meeting?
Do I need to be a client of Serendipity to access these resources?
Helping You Connect with the Tools That Make a Difference
At Serendipity Behavioral Services, we know that progress doesn’t just happen during a therapy session. It’s shaped by the community you’re connected to, the information you have access to, and the confidence you feel as a caregiver. That’s why we’re committed to helping families find and use the best autism support resources in Chicago, IL. Whether you’re exploring new educational tools, advocating for your child in school, or just trying to understand what’s next, we’re here to help guide you. Just reach out to us any time for support, connection, or more information.