Whether a family member was recently diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) or you’re interested in gaining more knowledge in hopes of becoming a stronger support system, the internet is bursting at the seams with valuable information for you. Similarly, there are dozens of learning resources for autistic children, and other educational websites available to children with similar developmental disabilities.
But navigating through all of the resources available can be a bit overwhelming – where’s the best place to get information, and which resources can you count on to be most useful?
In this guide, we’ll highlight some of the best resources for parents of autistic children and support people of autistic children, as well as other useful educational sensory-friendly websites for autistic children.
Resources for Families
For parents, siblings, and extended family members looking for better support, consider these available resources.
1. A Parent’s Guide to Autism by Autism Speaks
Developed within the Autism Speaks’ series of Family Support Tool Kits, the Parent’s Guide to Autism is designed specifically for parents navigating a recent autism diagnosis in their children. Within this resource, parents gain information on different ways to help their child, build a support network, better manage expectations, and more.
2. Active Support Groups List by Autism Speaks
While it’s helpful to have readily available information on the internet, some people thrive in a supportive learning environment surrounded by like-minded individuals. This list of support groups by Autism Speak can be useful for all of the family members, whether it’s parents, grandparents, friends, or siblings looking for effective coping strategies.
3. Asperger Syndrome & High Functioning Autism Association
Another great resource for the entire family, the Asperger Syndrome & High Functioning Autism Association works as an advocacy program for individuals on the spectrum, as well as their family members, caregivers and support people. Through one-to-one phone and e-support, AHA is available to everyone in the family looking for useful resources to spread awareness, encourage acceptance, and advocate for others with ASD.
Resources for Teachers: Navigating Autism in the Classroom
For greater support in the classroom, educators can benefit from the following resources.
4. Resources by the Organization for Autism Research
Educators looking for greater support while teaching special education can benefit from these resources put together by the Organization for Autism Research. From addressing safety concerns in the classroom to teaching students how to be more accepting and inclusive, this collection of information includes comprehensive guidebooks, manuals, professional development, lesson plans, and more.
5. Teaching Students with Autism: A Guide for Educators by the National Education Association
Designed to support teachers teaching autistic children from kindergarten through to their senior year of high school, this guide by the National Education Association touches on student learning styles vs needs, understanding how to adapt lesson plans, and how to collaborate with family members and caregivers:
“This guide helps K-12 educators create a great school experience for students with autism with tips to capitalize on students’ strengths, strategies to address their challenges, and resources for providing individualized support.”
6. Teaching Young Children by the National Association for the Education of Young Children
Teaching Young Children is an award-winning magazine available to preschool educators who want to gain more perspective on teaching and learning initiatives that are working among their peers. This publication isn’t autism-specific, but can be useful for early education professionals looking for recognizing what’s developmentally appropriate for young children, especially when navigating autism spectrum disorder. Educators are encouraged to buy the latest issue or subscribe to the magazine.
Educational Resources for Autistic Children
If you’re looking for educational resources to share with your own autistic child or one of your students, consider the following.
7. Autism Reading List
Looking for a wide range of community resources for autistic children? This reading list by Children’s National has a variety of book options for toddlers, young children, and teens with autism that can teach them more about the disorder from a variety of perspectives. There’s also a section dedicated to adults, which can be a great resource for families, caretakers, and teachers.
8. Speech and Language Pathology at Blossom Children’s Center
If you’re a parent of an autistic child with language delays, pragmatic language disorder, or a similar issue with verbal and non-verbal communication tactics, consider Speech and Language Pathology Blossom Children’s Center.
Our trained and experienced speech language pathologists use evidence-based therapy strategies and techniques to help children better improve their speech and develop broader language skills. Each SLP can help your child through language, speech sound, and pragmatic language disorders. We also offer augmentative and alternative communication modalities for children with severe expressive language or motor speech delays.
We invite toddlers to try Preschool Pals, a language and speech therapy group for preschool preparation. This program is designed to encourage peer interaction, specifically targeting social and language skills in a real-world setting. When autistic children are exposed to others in a school-like environment, they can work on social interactions and practice independence without feeling the pressure of an individual speech therapy session.
For more information on Speech and Language Pathology at Blossom Children’s Center, schedule your consultation today.
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