Statewide:

STEP Support and Training for Exceptional Parents (423) 639-0125

The STEP program provides training to parents in areas such as Writing IEPs, Communication and Conflict Resolution, Transitions (both from Early Intervention and into Adulthood.) Lots of parents wish they had been to STEP Training before they entered the school system. Many even suggest attending the Basic Step course several times in order to become fluent in IDEA and IEPs.

Tennessee Childcare Resource Centers

These centers provide educational resources and training for day care facilities on safety, health, activities for kids, and the like. They can provide training and services on site to a center. 

They are also a  resource for parents to call and find out about child care resources in their community. They can provide info on ages served, cost, staffing, licensure, and whether they serve special needs children.

 

Tennessee Early Intervention System (TEIS) 1-800-852-7157

Provides Services for Children from Birth until their Third Birthday under Part C. If you have any reason to believe your child has a delay (Autism or otherwise) or need for help, please call. Their services are free regardless of your financial situation.

Tennessee Disability Information and Referral Service  1-800-640-4636

The Tennessee Disability Information and Referral Service is a free, statewide, information and referral service for persons with disabilities, family members, and service providers. The scope of information includes all disabilities and individuals of all ages. Service is provided in English and Spanish.

Tennessee Family Pathfinder 

In addition to having a searchable web version of The Statewide Services and Supports Directory (a print version is also available for a fee), the Pathfinder allows you to search a database of more than 1400 providers of disability and supports.  Both this site and the Tennessee Disability Information and Referral Service site are part of the Kennedy Center at Vanderbilt.

TRIAD (615) 936-0267

TRIAD (Treatment and Research Institute for Autism Spectrum Disorders) is a program at the Vanderbilt Child Development Center providing services, training, and research to improve the lives of children with autism spectrum disorders and their families. Look for TRIAD workshops, conferences, and training in your area. They are free to parents and interested professionals. In our experience, they are extremely worthwhile. TRIAD also runs a social group camp in the summer in Nashville. We have heard great things about this program, as well!

Knoxville/Knox County:

Autism Society of America - East Tennessee Chapter

Serves all of East Tennessee. Offers support groups, information, and an annual conference.

Cross Training

Monthly trainings for parents, teachers, providers, and other interested parties in issues related to special education.  Topics are chosen from needs expressed by participants.  Newcomers are welcome and can jump in at any time.  Trainings are held on the first Monday of each month in a classroom near the Fort Sanders Park West Medical Center in West Knoxville.

Down Syndrome Awareness Group of East Tennessee  (865) 905-2968

An active collection of parents and professionals who offer lots of opportunities to network with other folks.  This group organizes an annual Buddy Walk, monthly "Coffee and Crayons" playgroups, carnivals, family activities, and a newsletter.

Family Support Program (865) 523-0491

In Knox County, program funds are administered by the Cerebral Palsy Center.

Sunshine Early Intervention (865) 524-1311

Provides training for infants and children (from birth until the third birthday) with a developmental delay or at high risk. There are no income eligibility requirements and there is no charge for participation. Anyone can make a referral to Sunshine.

TOPSoccer

Knox Metro TOPSoccer is a community-based training and team placement program, sponsored by the Smoky Mountain Soccer Club and Farragut Christian Church, for the physically and/or mentally challenged player.

The President of Knox Metro TOPSoccer is Jim Riner.  For more information about the program you may contact him at 865-966-4622, or by e-mail at riner7@fsvmail.net

Maryville/ Alcoa:

Blount County Autism Support Group (865) 983-9584

An informal support group which meets to swap information, and share ideas. Meets on the 4th Friday of the month. Contact Linda for more information.

Sevier County:

          Sevier County Special Education Site

Information and links provided by to Parents by the Sevier County Special Education Department.  The Webmaster is both a parent of children with Autism as well as a Special Education teacher.

Important Disclaimer

This site as well as many others linked to it are produced by laypeople who are concerned about Autism and Autism's impact on our loved ones. We are not physicians, attorneys or therapists. We do not endorse any product or therapy, and no link on this site should be considered such an endorsement. Please take proper care in evaluating any advice or information you read on this site or anywhere on the net. Check with your doctor before trying any new treatment, and keep in mind two things: 1) All People with Autism are different and respond to various treatments accordingly, and 2) The person giving the advice, although sincere in their intent, may be wrong.