Resources for Families in the Tampa Bay Area

We created this page to share helpful resources for families and RBTs, including information on funding, ABA services, trainings, and more. Our goal is to make navigating services a little easier and keep you informed every step of the way.

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At Open Roads Therapy, we understand that navigating developmental services can sometimes feel 

   overwhelming. Families may be exploring different diagnoses, therapies, and support systems while  

   trying to determine what is best for their child.

Our goal is not only to provide compassionate, evidence-based ABA therapy, but also to help families  

   access trusted information and helpful community resources.

Below are resources that may support families navigating autism, ADHD, developmental delays, and 

   other developmental differences.

Many families throughout the Tampa Bay area, including Tampa, Brandon, and St. Petersburg, begin exploring these resources when they have questions about their child’s development.

Many children benefit from early support services for a variety of developmental needs. These organizations provide helpful information about developmental milestones, autism, ADHD, and learning differences.

• CDC Developmental Milestones – information about typical development and early signs of delays
• Autism Society – education, advocacy, and community resources
• CHADD (Children and Adults with ADHD) – resources and support for ADHD
• Understood.org – guidance for learning and attention differences

These resources can help families better understand developmental needs and available supports.

Families in Florida have access to several programs designed to support children with developmental needs.

• Florida Early Steps – early intervention services for children under age 3
• Florida Medicaid Autism Services – services for eligible families
• Step Up For Students Scholarships – education scholarships for children with special needs
• CARD (Center for Autism & Related Disabilities) – support services and family education

These programs may help families access evaluations, therapy services, and educational supports.

Parents and caregivers play an essential role in a child’s progress. Connecting with other families and learning from shared experiences can provide encouragement and support.

• Parent support groups

                   Facebook Groups

                   Reddit 

• Community autism organizations
• Educational workshops and family events

Many families find comfort and strength in connecting with others who understand their journey.

Understanding your child’s educational rights can help ensure they receive the support they need in school.

• Wrightslaw – information about special education law and advocacy
• Understood.org – resources for learning and attention challenges
• IEP guidance resources – information about Individualized Education Programs

These resources help families navigate school supports and advocate for their child’s needs.

Parents sometimes search for information about early signs of autism, ADHD symptoms in young children, or developmental delays, especially when they notice differences in communication, attention, social interaction, or daily routines.

Every child develops at their own pace, but some families begin exploring additional support after noticing challenges with communication, attention, social interaction, or daily routines. Early support can make a meaningful difference in helping children build skills, confidence, and independence.

Some signs families may notice include:

Communication

• Limited or delayed speech
• Difficulty expressing needs or wants
• Trouble following directions
   

Social Interaction

• Difficulty engaging with peers
• Limited eye contact
• Preferring to play alone
   

Attention & Behavior

• Difficulty sustaining attention
• High levels of activity or impulsivity
• Difficulty transitioning between activities
   

Daily Living Skills

• Challenges with routines
• Difficulty with independence skills
• Frustration when communicating needs
   

Not every child who shows these behaviors has a diagnosis. However, if you have concerns about autism, ADHD, developmental delays, or learning differences, speaking with a professional can help guide the next steps.

If you have questions about your child’s development, early guidance can provide helpful direction. Families often connect with professionals such as:

• Pediatricians
• Developmental specialists
• Speech-language pathologists
• Occupational therapists
• Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs)
   

These professionals can help determine whether additional evaluations or supportive services may benefit your child.

Many families have questions about their child’s development at some point. Seeking information and support is a positive step toward helping your child grow and thrive.

At Open Roads Therapy, we are always happy to connect with families, answer questions, and help guide them toward helpful resources and services throughout the Tampa Bay area. Every child’s path forward is unique, and we are honored to support families along the way.

You don’t have to navigate the process alone.