For many people, the first introduction to the world of intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) is hearing the words, “Your child has a disability.” It can feel like the scariest thing in the world for many parents. But not for others, as they may feel like the long-awaited answer explains what they already suspected.

It can be overwhelming being new to the I/DD world. What does your child’s diagnosis mean for the future? What can you do to help them? What should you be feeling? Unfortunately, there is no sole source for answers. However, three parents of newly adult children with I/DD share insights and advice that may put your mind at ease as you navigate what a new diagnosis means for your family.

, workforce and community services manager at Boundless, has a 28-year-old son who was diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) at 18 months old. Even though she had challenges with coming to terms with Josh’s diagnosis, she did not stay in denial long. Through research and education, she realized that her son did not need to be “fixed.

” His ASD is just one aspect of who he is. Engle credits Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABA) therapy for the advances Josh has made. It is important to not compare your child to anyone else.

Every parent must learn the best ways to advocate for their child as an individual. Realize that there will be missteps, and it is OK to not know everything. According to Engle, who changed careers to care for her son, there is no righ.