Autism Access & Innovation

Autism & Innovation |  Autism Initiative Resources 

Autism Access and Innovation (AAI) is dedicated to supporting children and youth with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), from birth through age 21, and their families. Through coordinated services, AAI helps families navigate the complexities of early identification, diagnosis, intervention, and transition planning, ensuring that every child with ASD has access to the resources they need to thrive. 

ThinkstockPhotos-78778884_cropped.jpg

What is Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)?

ASD refers to a pattern of behaviors with 3 core features — difficulty with social interactions, difficulty with communication & the presence of restricted/repetitive behaviors, activities and interests. Because autism is a spectrum disorder, every individual has a distinct set of strengths and challenges that range in severity level.

In Georgia, about 1 in 31 or 3.3% of 8-year-old children were identified with ASD by Metropolitan Atlanta Developmental Disabilities Surveillance Program (MADDSP) according to an analysis of 2022 data (most recent reporting year).

  • What We Do

    AAI builds a coordinated network that: 

    • Connects families to early screenings, diagnostics, and intervention services.
    • Provides training and support for providers statewide.
  • For Families

    If you're a parent or caregiver, AAI can help you: 

    • Recognize early signs of ASD.
    • Get screening and diagnostic referrals.
    • Access therapies and community resources.
    • Prepare for transitions into school or adulthood. 

     Early Signs of Autism 

    • No babbling or cooing by 12 months
    • No gestures such as pointing or waving by 12–18 months
    • No words by 16 months
    • Loss of language or social skills at any age 

    Helpful Tips 

    • Talk, read, and sing to your child.
    • Play interactive games like “peek-a-boo” or “my turn, your turn.”
    • Use simple, descriptive language often. 

    Concerned about your child's development? 
    Download this pdf file. Complete a Children 1st Referral and talk to your pediatrician today. 

  • For Providers

    AAI empowers providers to: 

    • Integrate ASD screening into routine care.
    • Receive training on gold-standard diagnostic tools.
    • Connect families to timely, effective interventions.
    • Collaborate with a statewide network of clinicians and specialists. 

     Join the AAI Provider Network 

    1. Reach out: Email us to learn more.
    2. Get Trained: Access webinars, toolkits, and CME opportunities.
    3. Start Referrals: Help families get evaluated and supported.
    4. Collaborate: Participate in our referral network and case coordination. 

    Training is available for: 

    • Pediatricians/Family Physicians
    • Licensed Clinical Psychologists
    • Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs) 

Why is Early Diagnosis Important?

According to the National Center on Birth Defects and Developmental Disabilities, on average children in Georgia are diagnosed around 4 years old, however, ASD can sometimes be detected at 18 months of age or younger. By age 2, a diagnosis by an experienced professional can be considered reliable. An early diagnosis helps to ensure children receive timely and appropriate care. It is important for all children to be screened for developmental delays, especially those children who are at a higher risk for developmental deficiencies due to pre-term birth, low birth weight, or having a brother or sister with ASD.

How many children have been helped by the program?

Over 3,500 children annually between the ages of 18 and 24 months have been screened using the MCHAT-R/F for ASD across the state of Georgia.

 

Page last updated 8/5/25