Possible move to Charlotte (or other places) with high functioning autistic child. (Raleigh: health insurance)

[tracyalexa]

Update to my last post - we thought my husband might work in Asheboro, that isn't the case anymore.

But we've done so much research that we are still thinking this would be a nice place to relocate to. We are also considering the Nashville area and perhaps a couple of others.

I've had some issues with finding solid info on schools that do well with a child like mine. I am hoping for some guidance.

We are looking in the Charlotte or the Raleigh area. Open to both. Which would be best based on our needs (below). We are booking a flight to NC in Aug to drive around and get a feel for the towns.

We've heard various things about NC and autism services, I really need more info on that. My understanding is that employers of 51+ people are to have health insurance that covers ABA and other autism services. Is this correct?

Schools & programs - are there many schools in either of these areas that serve autistic kids? He is very high functioning. The issue we have is he's 4 and reads on a 4th-grade level, does 1st/2nd-grade math and is well past the K stage. Do any schools mix ages? We are open to independent schools as well.

Husband is in manufacturing, currently is a Maintenace Manager for a food company here in Boston. What is the job market like in either of these places? I've done some searches and seen there are positions open and manufacturing seems to be doing well but I'd like any info you all can provide on what you see. He is open to up to an hour drive to work.

Then there are the typical things - safe neighborhood, parks/playgrounds, shopping within a reasonable distance. Budget is $300k

I know that's a lot so thanks for getting this far! Any info is very much appreciated!

[DawnW]

I have NOT heard that about 51+ employers.

I can only tell you my experience. I have a son who was diagnosed with Asperger's years ago. After some issues with the local school (and we are in top schools!) we pulled him out and homeschooled him. We found wonderful homeschool communities who were accepting of him and his issues. And he is now in college, AWAY at college, entering his Junior year in the Fall, so for US, it was the right thing.

It really depends on YOUR child. Every child with Autism is different.

However, one thing I will say about Charlotte, there is a top notch Psychology Center, and one of their top focus areas is Autism. We did individual and group therapy there and it really helped. If you PM me I can give you more info.

Many of the kids there went to public schools, mostly in CMS, and there were mixed reviews depending on the child and the school combination. Some kids can handle large crowds for example, and others can't. Mine couldn't.

There are private schools for those on the spectrum as well. Epiphany, Fletcher, Trinity, Manus, Dore Academy, and if I think of any others, I will let you know.

AutismSpeaks.org can be a very helpful resource for services, schools, and programs for those on the Spectrum.

[tracyalexa]

Thank you very much for the info. My son can handle crowds for a limited period, a few hours and then he needs to get away. He's amazing during ABA. He loves his daily schedule and completes work very fast. My fear is he will be too far ahead and then bored, allowing him to get into trouble.