This dissertation project comprised the development of a resource manual for traditionally underserved families in California with children who have been recently diagnosed with autism. The manual aims to help parents in such families understand the diagnosis of autism, the interventions currently available to treat this disorder, and how to go about obtaining interventions and services for their children.

This positive, straightforward book offers kids with autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) their own comprehensive resource for both understanding their condition and finding tools to cope with the challenges they face every day. Some children with ASDs are gifted; others struggle academically. Some are more introverted, while others try to be social. Some get "stuck" on things, have limited interests, or experience repeated motor movements like flapping or pacing ("stims"). The Survival Guide for Kids with Autism Spectrum Disorders covers all of these areas, with an emphasis on helping children gain new self-understanding and self-acceptance. Meant to be read with a parent, the book addresses questions ("What’s an ASD?" "Why me?") and provides strategies for communicating, making and keeping friends, and succeeding in school. Body and brain basics highlight symptom management, exercise, diet, hygiene, relaxation, sleep, and toileting. Emphasis is placed on helping kids handle intense emotions and behaviors and get support from family and their team of helpers when needed. The book includes stories from real kids, fact boxes, helpful checklists, resources, and a glossary. Sections for parents offer more detailed information.

A one-stop compendium for parents of children with autism. The most recent studies estimate that 1 in 68 children in America are on the autism spectrum. For the parents and families of these children, having support is vital. But the search for the right information can be difficult, and it may be even harder to find the time for the research that is needed. The Parent’s Autism Sourcebook brings that information to you, offering families of children with autism a full range of up-to-date resources on diagnoses, doctors, organizations, and much more. Whether you are concerned about finding the right school, possible treatment options, methods for social interaction, or are just looking for the support of other parents of children with autism, this book can help you find what you need. The resources gathered from across the nation in this comprehensive sourcebook include information on: Evaluation and screening methods Specialized doctors and clinics Schools and social groups Potential treatments and interventions Legal services and consultation And more Raising a child on the autism spectrum can present unique challenges for parents. Finding the resources and support they need shouldn’t be one of them. The Parent’s Autism Sourcebook will help families everywhere.

The Autism Resource Manual for Families is a treasure trove of practical, realistic and achievable strategies to support neurodivergent young people and their families with everyday life. Clearly laid out for easy use and access, it explains autism in context and provides ideas that are relevant not just for parents and carers, but for family support workers, social workers and family intervention teams. The resource covers a wide range of situations and offers an array of supports, with key topics ranging from anxiety, behaviour, and communication, to socialising, family life, and moving towards independence. With the lived experiences of parents and autistic children and young people in mind, this empowering manual includes: A wealth of situations from daily life, clearly addressed with examples of how autistic individuals may experience these and practical strategies for effective support Encouragement for parents and mini mantras for autistic children and young people to use in different situations Strategies for supporting autistic children in daily family life, including working with siblings, family holidays and eating out Advice for helping autistic young people through school, including attendance, homework and after-school exhaustion Guidance on initiating and carrying out productive conversations, as well as downloadable resources for visual conversation support. This book will be an essential tool for parents and carers of neurodivergent children and young people, as well as family or parent support workers and family intervention teams. It will also be valuable reading for pastoral teams, CAMHS, and social workers supporting these families.

When a child is diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder (ASD), what the family really need, and often lack, is positive reassurance and understanding from those closest to them. This book is packed with advice on how extended family members and friends can provide the necessary support. Explaining the diagnosis and characteristics of ASD, this helpful guide uses examples from real families to illustrate the complex feelings that parents and each member of the family are likely to go through after a child is diagnosed. It gives practical tips on help that might be needed most, details the possible changes that will take place as the family adjusts and concludes with a comprehensive guide to other useful sources of information. This book will help strengthen relationships between parents and their extended family and friends, enabling a reliable support system to develop which will remain crucial to the child throughout their life.

"Autism: A Practical Guide for Parents" is a must-read guidebook for parents of children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). This book is written in a clear and concise language that makes it easy for parents to understand and apply the strategies presented in the book. The book covers all the essential topics related to Autism, including diagnosis, treatment options, educational and behavioral interventions, and coping strategies. It offers practical advice and tips that are based on the author's extensive experience in working with individuals with ASD. This book is a valuable resource that every parent of a child with ASD should have.

Beyond the Autism Diagnosis is filled with the parent feedback professionals need to answer this critical question.