Preparing for Your Ontario Autism Program (OAP) Determination of Needs (DON) Meeting

If your child is on the waitlist for the Ontario Autism Program (OAP), you may be preparing for the Determination of Needs (DON) meeting. This process helps assess your child’s individual strengths and areas of need across ten key domains to determine the level of support they require.

At The Nest Family Behaviour Support Services, we understand that preparing for this meeting can feel overwhelming. That’s why we offer consultation services, behavioural assessments, and even direct participation in your DON call to ensure that your child’s needs are accurately identified and addressed.

Understanding the 10 Domains of Need

During the DON meeting, service navigators will assess your child in the following areas:

1. Communication – How does your child express themselves and understand others? Do they use words, gestures, or assistive devices to communicate?

2. Social Interaction – How does your child engage with others? Can they participate in group activities, play with peers, or interact in new settings?

3. Play and Leisure – Does your child engage in independent or social play? Are they able to participate in recreational activities?

4. Activities of Daily Living – Can your child complete daily tasks such as getting dressed, eating, or brushing their teeth independently?

5. Motor Skills – How well does your child use their fine motor skills (e.g., writing, using utensils) and gross motor skills (e.g., running, climbing)?

6. Cognitive Skills – Can your child follow instructions, stay focused, and solve problems? How do they handle learning new tasks? How do they execute executive functioning skills?

7. Sensory System – How does your child respond to sensory input (e.g., noise, textures, lights)? Do they seek or avoid certain sensations?

8. Interfering Behaviours – Are there behaviours that impact their ability to safely participate in daily activities, such as aggression, self-injury, or elopement?

9. Mental Health – Does your child experience anxiety, mood regulation challenges, or other emotional difficulties that affect daily life?

10. Adaptability and Resilience – How well does your child cope with changes in routine or unexpected situations?

How The Nest Family Behaviour Support Services Can Help

Preparing for the DON meeting is crucial to ensure your child receives the appropriate support. We can assist in the following ways:

• Consultation Services – We’ll guide you through the DON process, helping you prepare for the meeting and understand the key areas of assessment.

• Behavioural Assessments – Our team can conduct a thorough assessment to accurately identify your child’s current needs across the ten domains.

• DON Meeting Support – We can join your DON call to advocate for your child and ensure their strengths and challenges are properly understood.

Take the Next Step

If you’re feeling uncertain about how to navigate your child’s DON meeting, The Nest Family Behaviour Support Services is here to help. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and ensure that your child’s unique needs are fully recognized and supported.

Together, we can make sure your child gets the services they deserve!