By age
Autism supports by age
Choose your child's age to see the Ontario programs and guides that usually matter most at that stage. Most programs are not limited to one age, so treat these bands as a starting point, not a strict cutoff. This is a routing hub: each link opens a full guide. The Ontario Autism Program is for children and youth under 18.
Ages 0 to 5
Early years. Usually about getting assessed if needed, registering with OAP, and early programs.
Before you have a diagnosis
Programs you can start without a diagnosis, and how autism assessments work in Ontario.
Open the guide →
After an autism diagnosis
The first steps to take once you have a written diagnosis.
Open the guide →
Ages 12 to 48 months
Caregiver Mediated Early Years (CMEY)
Free OAP program for very young children, with caregiver coaching from a clinician. Invitation from AccessOAP required.
See how it works →
Ages 3 to 6
Entry to School
School readiness support before kindergarten or Grade 1. Invitation from OAP required.
See how it works →
OAP Core Clinical Services
The main therapy funding. Register early because invitations follow your registration date.
See how to register →
Ages 6 to 13
School-age. Usually about school supports, OAP therapy funding, respite, and disability benefits.
OAP Core Clinical Services
The main therapy funding for ABA, speech, OT, and mental health. Register if you have not.
See how to register →
School Supports and IEP
Ask your child's school for an education plan with accommodations. No diagnosis required.
See how to request one →
Special Services at Home (SSAH)
Funding for respite and daily supports. A separate Ontario program from OAP.
See how to apply →
Income tested
Assistance for Children with Severe Disabilities (ACSD)
Income-tested monthly provincial payment. Separate from SSAH and OAP.
See how to apply →
Federal
Disability Tax Credit (DTC)
Federal tax credit. DTC approval opens the RDSP and Child Disability Benefit.
See how to apply →
Ages 14 to 17
Teen years. Keep using current supports, and start planning for adult services before 18.
OAP Core Clinical Services
Still available until 18. Register early if you have not already.
See how to register →
School Supports and IEP
Education plans and accommodations through your child's school board.
See how to request one →
Special Services at Home (SSAH)
Respite and daily supports. SSAH also ends at 18, so plan before the birthday.
See how to apply →
Plan before 18
Transition to Adulthood and DSO
What changes at 18 and how to start planning for the move to adult services.
See how to plan →
Ages 18 plus
The Ontario Autism Program is for children and youth under 18 and ends at 18.
Not sure what applies to your family
Two quick ways to find your next step.