Back To School

Heading back to school can be a big transition for children and families. A little preparation, consistency, and extra support can help make the start of the school year feel smoother and more predictable. Check out these simple tips to help your child feel ready for a great school year!

 

Navigating Health Insurance

We know that navigating insurance can be frustrating and overwhelming, especially when requirements change or families are asked to provide updated documentation for a diagnosis that has already been established.

Unfortunately, most insurance companies periodically require an updated psychological evaluation before they will continue authorizing services. These evaluations can take time to schedule and complete, so when Balance Autism reaches out about an upcoming authorization or updated evaluation, we encourage families to begin the process as soon as possible.

Our team will do everything we can to help families understand what is needed and navigate the process. However, without the documentation required by your insurance company, authorization may not be renewed. If we are unable to secure authorization or another payment arrangement, services may ultimately need to be paused or discontinued.

We know this can be stressful, and our goal is to give families as much notice and support as possible. By working together and starting early, we can help reduce the risk of service interruptions.

 

Community Partner Spotlight:

Regional Autism Assistance Program (RAP)

This month, we’re highlighting Iowa’s Regional Autism Assistance Program (RAP), a free statewide resource helping families of children and youth with autism or suspected autism connect with the services and support they need.

A special part of RAP is its Family Navigators! All Family Navigators are parents or primary caregivers of children with special health care needs who bring their own lived experience to supporting other families. They listen, offer emotional support, help families navigate education and health care systems, connect them with community resources and support groups, and assist with finding autism services that fit their needs.

RAP serves families across all 99 Iowa counties and supports Iowans with autism from birth through age 21. Their Family Navigators are a wonderful resource for families who may be wondering, “Where do we go from here?”

We’re grateful for RAP and its Family Navigators for helping Iowa families feel informed, connected, and supported throughout their autism journey.

 

Iowa State Fair - Sensory Friendly Day

Now in its fifth year, the Iowa State Fair is offering “Sensory-Friendly Morning” on Wednesday, August 19, 2026, offering a welcoming and accessible Fair experience for individuals and families. Thoughtful adjustments are made across the Fairgrounds to reduce sensory overload, including lower sound levels, limited flashing lights, clearly marked directional signage, designated educational areas, and trained volunteers throughout the morning.

For the morning, two air-conditioned calming rooms will also be available for anyone needing a break. “Calm Your Body” Room – A quiet, relaxing space with fidgets, dimmable lighting, soothing music, coloring sheets and soft seating will be in the Robert G. Horner and Sheri Avis Horner Service Center. “Move Your Body” Room – An active area featuring stretching, jumping, therapy balls and a small obstacle course will be in the Richard O. Jacobson Exhibition Center classrooms. Both rooms will be staffed by ChildServe Occupational Therapists from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Wednesday, August 19.

A full schedule of Sensory-Friendly Morning fun is available at www.iowastatefair.org.

Can’t make it that morning? The Fair offers sensory-friendly features every day! Visit the website for daily recommendations and activities designed for individuals with sensory processing needs. The Service Center’s calming room is open daily from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Get ready for your day at the Iowa State Fair with a social story!