Relocating to PA

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	Hello, I am looking to relocate to PA and had heard some say that York County offers decent services for children with autism.  My issue is this:  my thirteen year old son is what they consider to be classically autistic.  Although he is verbal (can indicate wants and needs through short subject-verb sentences), he does exhibit some very challenging behaviors (aggression, property destruction, self-injurious behavior).  When I looked into York County, no one could give me any definitive information and from my research it appears as if its made up of about 10 or so boroughs (small towns) that fall under the auspices of IU 12.  What I fear the most of small towns are the limited opportunities they often present.  So, my mind began to wander to the Pittsburgh area (hope I spelled that correctly), which seems more urban, but I dont know anything about it. My questions are as follows:  Is York County or Pittsburgh a viable area for my son given his needs?  If so, what borough/city/town, IU  or school system should I specifically consider as a possible relocation site?  What are the services outside of the school system like?  Any and all information would be greatly appreciated.  Thanks. Pat    I live in centre county, PA. Very pleased with the services for my daughter at this time. we live in a college town ( Penn State ) so it is somewhat small, but I am happy with all that we have. I have heard that the Pittsburgh area is great in regards to services. Childrens Hospital of Pittsburgh has an Autism Center that you might want to look into. Also, I belong to another group pittsburgh_autism@yahoogroups.com which seems to be very active and may provide good resources for you as you make this decision. GOOD LUCK I live in Montgomery County PA (not far from Philly) and have been very happy with the 0-3 services.  After 0-3, I think services vary widely based more on school district than on county.  Our advocate told me that my school district (SPring Ford) is very good, primarily because ~10 years ago they were failing miserably in teh No Child Left Behind Act, and have since put in a ton of resources for ASD children. PA also offers wrap-around services for behavioral (non-academic) issues if the child has Medical Assistance (no problem to get this with a classical Autism dx) and otherwise qualifies for this type of help based on the specific needs.  I'm fairly certain that this is handled at the county level. GL. I think PA is a great place to live!
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