Parent Hub

Guidance and answers for families navigating autism support

What are the treatment options?

There is no “cure” for autism, but early and structured support helps a child learn, communicate, and become more independent. Common interventions include:

Early Intervention Programs – Skill-building in communication, play, behaviour, and daily living.
Special Education – Individualized learning plans adapted to each child’s needs.
Speech Therapy – Supports communication, comprehension, and social language skills.
Occupational Therapy (OT) – Helps with sensory needs, fine motor skills, and daily routines.
Behaviour Support – Builds useful behaviours and reduces challenging ones.
Parent Training – Empowers families with techniques they can use at home.
Medical Support – Paediatricians and psychiatrists may support co-occurring conditions like ADHD, anxiety, or sleep issues.

GETTING A DIAGNOSIS

If you notice your child is showing signs such as delayed speech, difficulty with social interaction, repetitive behaviours, or sensory sensitivities, note the concerns and approach a registered hospital; preferably a government hospital such as Bangalore Medical College and Research Institute, NIMHANS, St. John’s Medical College and Hospital, KC General Hospital and consult the pediatrician or psychiatrist for futher guidance.

How to get a UDID?

The Unique Disability ID (UDID) card is a national disability card issued by the Government of India. It gives access to benefits such as travel concessions, pensions, assistive devices, school support, and more. You must have a disability assessment done at a government-authorized hospital.

For Autism, the certificate often comes from:

NIMHANS, Bengaluru
St. John’s Medical College & Hospital
Indira Gandhi Institute of Child Health (IGICH)
Any district government hospital

They will assess your child and issue a Disability Certificate mentioning Autism Spectrum Disorder and the percentage of disability. Visit: https://www.swavlambancard.gov.in for further instructions and documents to be uploaded.

Will my child need a FULL DAY SCHOOL OR THERAPY CENTRE?

It depends on your child’s age, developmental needs, behaviour, learning pace, and how much support he/she needs every day. Milder forms of autism are usually referred to therapy centres and children requiring more needs do well in a full day special school.

CHOOSING THE RIGHT SCHOOL

Look for a school that has: