Autism diagnosis can be an overwhelming time for many families. This is an accessible, easy to navigate guide for parents, answering the questions they may have before, during and after diagnosis. Written by a highly experienced author team, this book will support parents from the moment somebody mentions autism, through the diagnosis process and beyond. It provides reliable advice on every stage, with guidance on what to do during the long wait for assessment and diagnosis. Working from a pro-neurodiversity perspective it encourages parents to see beyond the diagnosis and to celebrate each child's unique personality and strengths. Combining information on medical diagnosis, educational needs and more, the book shares case studies and direct quotes from families to help parents to give their children the best start following an autism diagnosis, and help them to achieve their full potential. There is also a bonus downloadable chapter with information from the key professionals involved in the diagnostic process, so you know who you can turn to for the support and help you need.

This guide will help readers have an in-depth understanding of autism, and provide a plan for parents to raise happy, healthy children. All children can flourish and mature through love.

"Packed with real-life stories and everyday problem-solving ideas, this book has given many tens of thousands of parents the facts they need about high-functioning autism spectrum disorder (ASD), including Asperger syndrome. The authors are leading experts who describe ways to work with these kids' unique impairments and capabilities so they can grow into happy, self-sufficient adults. Parents learn practical strategies for helping their son or daughter relate more comfortably to peers, learn the rules of appropriate behavior, and succeed in school. The book also discusses what scientists currently know about ASD and how it is diagnosed, as well as what treatments and educational supports have been shown to work. Updated with the latest research, resources, and clinical strategies, the second edition clearly explains the diagnostic changes in DSM-5"--

Better Than A Diagnosis: A Single Parent's Guide to Autism is a never before seen autobiographical novel meets well-researched roadmap in navigating the world of autism spectrum disorder. Most parents face barriers with getting support for their children on the spectrum and Antoinette's unique perspective as a single parent pulls the reader into a cocoon of relatable inspiration.The reader will learn about biological psychology, teaching techniques, and first-hand experience behind the choices and behaviors of a person on the spectrum.Antoinette says, "I know what it feels like to be told a thousand times 'no' when it came to the care of my child. I know how it feels to be abandoned by friends and family over the choice to stay committed to the roller coaster of autism. I wrote this book for every person who ever felt alone, challenged, and frustrated in combating autism. There is hope. And hope is Better Than a Diagnosis."

When you are starting to learn about autism, it's easy to feel overwhelmed. You might have heard negative things about autism, or feel worried about your child's future. But it is going to be okay. Your kid is still the same kid they were before you knew they were autistic. All the things you love about them haven't changed. Now that you know that they are autistic, you are going to be able to understand them better. That's what this booklet is for. We'll tell you the facts about autism. We'll talk about how to find good services, and about your kid's rights in school. Most importantly, we'll talk about how to support your autistic child as they learn and grow.

The most crucial aspect of treating and helping kids with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) is catching it early and beginning treatment before it's too late. In this book, Stone provides specific checklists of symptoms to watch for and a screening test that everyone can use at home.

Given in memory of Pete Palasota by The ARC of Bryan/College Station.