What to Do When Your Child Is Delayed—and You're Stuck Waiting

If you're a parent sitting in the confusing, stressful limbo of “maybe autism, maybe not” or waiting endlessly for answers and services—you’re not alone. Maybe your toddler isn’t speaking yet. Maybe they’re not responding to their name or engaging the way you expected. Maybe you’re already on the waitlist... to get on another waitlist. It’s maddening. It’s heart-wrenching. And it can feel like you’re doing nothing during the most important window of time.

I want you to know: your child doesn't have to wait to begin progress. You can start supporting their social connection and communication today—even before a diagnosis or services arrive.

A Simple First Step You Can Take Right Now

If your child is showing signs of developmental delay—like not babbling, not using words, or seeming disconnected—you can begin making a difference by focusing on connection-based communication routines at home.

Start with this:

• Pick one daily routine—bath time, snack time, or diaper changes work great.
• Slow it down intentionally. Pause before offering the snack or turning on the water.
• Look for any signal your child makes—a reach, a sound, a glance—and treat it like communication.
• Respond warmly and narrate what’s happening: “Oh! You looked at the bubbles—bubbles are ready!”

This simple routine gives you two vital things: a predictable pattern your child can learn to participate in, and a natural rhythm for connection to develop.

Why This Matters So Much Right Now

In the early years, your child’s brain is at its most flexible—what we call neuroplasticity. This window doesn’t stay open forever. It’s when language pathways are built. When social motivation wires up. And when everyday experiences can shape lifelong abilities.

Every time your child communicates—even with a glance—they’re firing those social neurons. And every time you respond, you reinforce that communication is worth it.

That’s why waiting—without action—is so risky. Not because you aren’t doing enough. But because no one told you that you have the power to be your child’s first and best intervention.

How to Start Supporting Your Child While You Wait

1. Focus on Connection Over Compliance: Instead of trying to get your child to follow instructions, aim to build shared joy and turn-taking moments. Peekaboo counts. So does a snack-time song.
2. Use Meaningful Routines: Pick moments that happen every day. Repetition is your friend. Breakfast, putting on shoes, bedtime—these are your daily intervention zones.
3. Slow Down and Observe: Give your child space to initiate—even subtly. A reach for the cup? That's communication. Meet it with warmth.
4. Add Micro-Pauses: Before you give, wait. Before you act, look. These little pauses create space for your child to participate.
5. Model Language, Don’t Demand It: Say short, clear phrases during shared moments—but don’t force repeating. “Water’s coming. Splash splash!” is better than “Say splash.”

Real-Life Scripts to Use During the Day

During Snack:

• (Child reaches for cracker) “You want cracker? Mmm crackers! Here you go—crack, crack, crunch!”
• (Pause with cracker bag visible) “Oh! You’re looking at the bag! Want some?” (Wait for glance or sound) “Yes, crackers coming!”

During Bath Time:

• “Let’s turn on the water... ready?” (Pause) “Oh, you’re smiling—okay! Water on!”
• (Child splashes) “Splash splash! You love that. More splash?” (Wait for sign) “More it is!”

During Book Time:

• “You want to read this one? Duck book? Quack quack!”
• (Child closes book) “All done book? Okay, all done. Let’s find something else.”

When to Seek Extra Support

If you’ve been noticing delays—especially in social communication, babbling, responding to name, or language—it’s a good idea to seek both evaluation and support.

You can start by checking out my free developmental milestones guide. I created it to help parents get clarity on what to watch for and when to take action.

And if you’re already on a waitlist—or waiting for an assessment—please don’t wait to start.

What to Do While You're Waiting for Services

That’s exactly why I created my online course, Jumpstart the Journey. It’s a parent-centered program designed to help you build the foundational skills that spark social connection and communication—right from your living room, no therapy referral required.

Even better? I offer live cohorts where parents go through the course together. We meet weekly, you get to ask questions, and we build a community of support so you don’t have to do it alone.

If you’d like more personalized support, you can schedule a free 30-minute discovery call with me to see if consultation is right for you & your family. I’m here to help.

Frequently Asked Questions About Autism and Early Intervention

What should I do if my child isn’t talking yet and we're still waiting for an evaluation?

You can begin working on connection and communication now. Use routines, model language, and respond to all attempts—verbal or not. Early parent-led interaction is powerful.

Is it okay to start intervention before I have a diagnosis?

Absolutely yes. Early support doesn’t require a diagnosis—and starting now gives your child a head start when their brain is most ready.

What if I’m not sure whether my child’s delays are actually a concern?

Many parents feel this way. You can download my free developmental milestones guide to get more clarity on what's typical and where to look closer.

What if I’m not a teacher or therapist—can I really make a difference?

Yes, yes, yes. You are the most important person in your child’s life. With the right tools, you can create powerful growth just by changing the way you interact during daily life.

Where should I start if I feel completely overwhelmed?

Start with one routine. Just one. And look for moments of connection. Then build from there. I promise, small steps compound—especially when you stay consistent.