The Ontario government has announced a program to give parents of children with autism more options.

Minister of Children and Youth Services Michael Coteau says a permanent direct funding option will be implemented by the end of the year.

He says parents will have choice as parents will get to choose between direct funding or direct service.

Coteau says the bottom line is that this is a big win for parents and children with autism.

Coteau says if you’re getting direct funding now nothing will change before the new program is implemented and once it is you’ll be able to choose.

Coteau says once a child is assessed, an approach will be recommended for therapy and the child will receive that therapy but it’ll be up to the parent if that approach will be taken.

He says there will be a transition period as the new flexibility program isn’t expected to be in place until the end of the year.

Filed under: AUTISM, Michael Coteau