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Who will watch my child after 5th grade?

Shawn - posted on 08/25/2010 ( 5 moms have responded )

My daughter is 6 years old and she has a dual diagnosis of Autism and Retts. Her genetic testing came back very unusual and something her neurologist has never seen before. She really doesn't fit completely in either catagory. She has no speech. She still wears diapers. My husband and I feed, bath and dress her. She basically is a 6-18 month old infant. She just started kindergarten this year and I am already looking to the future. She is currently watched after school by the YMCA. I just so happened to ask them yesterday to what age they watch children. They only watch through the 5th grade. What I am to do after the 5th grade. My husband and I can't afford for one of us to quit our jobs. We live in O'Fallon MO. If anyone knows of any place that watches children that old please let me know. I am worried that if I am to find something it will be so expensive that we can't afford it. Any help will be greatly appreciated.

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Shelly - posted on 08/28/2010

This might not help you in the near furture, but have you signed her up for goverment programs like CLASS. It is a program that helps with living skills and you are able to have an attendend for your child when needs and programs such as thrapys. It is about a 7 yr waiting list, but I am sure the is something out there that can help you. Have you called AnyBabyCan or the ARC of Texas? Do you live in Texas.

Shawn - posted on 08/27/2010

Thanks everyone. I will check into all of these ASAP especially if they may have waiting lists.

Diana - posted on 08/26/2010

Does MO have any waiver programs. VA does my daughter is classified under the DD waiver. Department of Medical Servies of VA provides her with a Theraputic Aide before and after school plus 40 hours a week during the summer and breaks. This program is paid through the state and your income is not a factor as it is for SSI. They also provide you with housing alterations such as handicapp bathrooms, ramps etc. If MO has it I would highly recommend the program. There is one spefically for Austism.

Iridescent - posted on 08/25/2010

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Contact social services and get on a waiting list for in home care, either PCA or nursing depending on level of need. The waiting lists can be up to 3 years long in some areas, so the sooner you apply the better. They may also have other suggestions for special needs day care.

Ella - posted on 08/25/2010

Do you have an Alta Regional Center in your area? If so, you might try calling them. Also, check with the city or county they may have programs available.