How Chicago’s New Early Childhood Policies Are Affecting Autism Evaluations and Therapy Access

As an occupational therapist and the founder of Eyas Landing, Blue Bird Day, and Merlin Day Academy, I see firsthand how overwhelming it can feel when you finally make the decision to schedule an autism evaluation here in Chicago and discover that the earliest appointment is months away.

You’re ready for answers, your child needs support, and yet the system can feel far slower than your patience allows. I want you to know: you are not alone. So many families share that same urgency and confusion when searching for autism evaluations or early intervention services.

To compound matters is the policy changes rippling across Illinois. They are real—not imagined.

As both a clinician and a parent advocate, I have been walking beside families for almost two decades. We have been through some trying times navigating shifting policies and timelines, and I have felt the same frustration and hope as you.

Today, Chicago families are facing the full impact of the new early childhood policies, expanded screening requirements, and updated state laws that are being implemented. This is causing an increase in referrals for developmental evaluations.

While these changes are designed to help children access support sooner, they can also mean longer waitlists and more steps for you to manage. The good news is that there are practical, clear ways to move forward while you wait, and my team is here to guide you through each step.

Blue Bird Day also offers diagnostic testing and assessments at our testing location in Wheaton, Illinois with a licensed clinical psychologist.

What Changed

More Screenings Are Happening Across the City

Illinois recently passed the Department of Early Childhood Act. This law reorganized early childhood services and expanded developmental screening across preschools, pediatric clinics, and community programs. As a result, more children are being referred for autism evaluations—and demand across Chicago clinics has soared.

Pediatricians Are Following Updated Screening Guidelines

The updated Illinois Developmental Screening Guidelines now encourage earlier and more frequent screenings. This proactive approach helps us catch developmental concerns sooner so your child can receive timely support. However, it also means a surge in referrals, which unfortunately stretches availability for evaluations.

Schools Are Required to Document Concerns Earlier

Chicago Public Schools must now follow strict federal guidelines, requiring them to respond to parent concerns within specific timelines. With more teachers recognizing sensory, communication, and behavioral needs, even more children are funneled into the evaluation process—both within and outside the school system.

Insurance and Funding Requirements Have Shifted

Illinois continues to revise early childhood funding and insurance requirements. These changes have a direct effect on how quickly evaluations get approved and how therapy hours are covered. As clinicians, we must adhere to rigorous privacy and documentation rules, which add another layer of complexity and can slow down scheduling.

More Children Need Multidisciplinary Evaluations

There is increased awareness—supported by new state task forces—of the wide range of support services children need. More families are seeking comprehensive evaluations that may include:

• Occupational Therapy (OT): Building everyday skills, from playing and getting dressed to managing sensory experiences.
• Speech Therapy: Helping your child communicate clearly and understand others.
• Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA): Step-by-step, evidence-based teaching that breaks new skills into bite-size pieces.
• Physical Therapy (PT): Developing strong motor skills, balance, and coordination.
• Social Work: Offering emotional support and practical guidance for your whole family.

This is incredibly positive, but it multiplies the demand for specialists across all fields.

How These Policy Changes Affect Families

Longer Wait Times for Autism Evaluations

As the number of referrals rises and evaluators become scarce, many families are left waiting months for a diagnostic appointment. Over the years, families have shared with me that this waiting period is the hardest—wanting answers and support right away, but running up against a system that just can’t move quickly enough.

Delays in Starting Therapy Services

At Eyas Landing and across Chicago, therapy usually can’t begin until the evaluation is complete. Insurance companies need official diagnostic paperwork before they’ll approve services. This bottleneck can seriously slow down your child’s entire care plan.

More Pressure on Schools and Pediatricians

Teachers and pediatricians are receiving a huge increase in requests for evaluations, accommodations, and referrals. I know how hard they work to support your child’s journey—but the volume sometimes makes it impossible to respond as quickly as children deserve.

Parents Feel Unsure About What Steps to Take First

Some families begin with the school, others call their pediatrician, some reach out directly to a clinic. The “right” pathway isn’t always clear—which often adds to your stress and uncertainty.

What Parents Can Do While Waiting for an Evaluation

Please know: waiting does not mean standing still. Every day, there are meaningful actions you can take to help your child feel confident and supported.

• Start a Simple Observation Log: Jot down short notes about your child’s communication, sensory experiences, and behavior. No need for long paragraphs—a few words each day help evaluators connect the dots and personalize their recommendations.
• Use Home Strategies That Support Regulation: Predictable routines help children feel safe. Maybe a calm morning routine, gentle transitions, or a few sensory-friendly activities at home—these can all reduce stress and help your child settle.
• Request School-Based Support Even Without a Diagnosis: You can ask for school accommodations before you have an official evaluation. Request a meeting to share your concerns. Supports might include visual schedules, sensory breaks, or communication tools.
• Explore Community Programs in Chicago: Look for opportunities like sensory-friendly library story times or Park District classes that welcome neurodiverse children. These low-pressure settings provide valuable social practice and fun.

How My Team Helps Families Through These Changes

Clear Guidance on Evaluation Pathways

Navigating the differences between medical, school, and insurance evaluations can be dizzying. At Eyas Landing, my priority is to help you understand the options and reduce the confusion. Our shared goal is to help you feel steady and informed, no matter where you begin.

Multidisciplinary Teams That Work Together

One of the most empowering things for families is knowing that Occupational Therapy, Speech, ABA, Physical Therapy, and Social Work are available under one roof. Our comprehensive approach means you won’t have to coordinate across multiple clinics—your child can receive consistent, empathy-driven care in a setting that meets your family’s needs.

Secure Collaboration With Schools and Pediatricians

With your permission, we share general guidance with your child’s school or pediatrician, helping everyone to stay aligned and work together—without giving away private details. It’s one more way we meet your family where you are.

What to Expect Once an Evaluation Is Complete

A Clear, Actionable Plan

When your child completes an evaluation at Eyas Landing, you receive specific recommendations that highlight their unique strengths and needs. We lay out clear next steps for therapy—and for supporting your child at home.

A Team That Understands the Whole Child

Our specialists collaborate across all disciplines to build a unified, tailored approach. This means your child is supported in every area of development, transforming potential into real progress.

A Sensory-Friendly Environment That Reduces Stress

Our spaces are intentionally designed to help children feel calm, safe, and comfortable. Predictable routines help kids settle, build trust, and feel ready to learn.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How long should I expect to wait for an autism evaluation appointment in Chicago?
Wait times can vary greatly depending on provider demand and insurance requirements. Currently, many families in Chicago are experiencing wait times of several months for a comprehensive evaluation. While this can be frustrating, starting an observation log and reaching out to multiple clinics can help you stay proactive during this period.

2. Can my child access support at school or in the community before a formal diagnosis is made?
Yes, your child may be eligible for certain accommodations and supports at school even before receiving a formal diagnosis. You can request a meeting with your child’s school team to discuss your concerns and explore available services such as sensory breaks, communication tools, or adjusted schedules. Community programs, like sensory-friendly events at libraries or park districts, are also wonderful resources while waiting for an official evaluation.

3. What should I bring or prepare when my child’s evaluation appointment finally arrives?
It’s helpful to bring documentation or a simple log highlighting your child’s communication, sensory preferences, and behaviors. Notes from teachers, copies of previous assessments, and insurance cards are also important. Most importantly, come prepared to share your unique perspective and questions—our team will use this information to develop a personalized, actionable plan for your child.

A Moment That Calls for Steady Action

Chicago families are facing real delays right now, and the need for evaluations just keeps growing. I know it’s stressful to watch your child every day and feel like support is just beyond reach. But it’s important to remember: the actions you take today matter. Your child’s development does not pause—and neither should your hope.

This is a moment that asks for patience, but also for gentle action. You can begin building routines, staying connected to resources, and gathering the information you’ll need. My team and I are ready to guide you every step of the way, from your very first phone call to the day your child begins services.

Your next step is to reach out—schedule a brief consultation with our intake team, and let us help you navigate your options and chart a path forward. Together, we’ll give your child the tools they need to thrive.

— Dr. Laura Mraz, OT, Owner of Eyas Landing