This is Part 3 of a 5-part series to showcase various types of support available to professionals, patients, and caregivers in a variety of formats (e.g. video clips, books, articles, etc.) for autism spectrum disorders (ASD). Below, you will find the resources categorized into two sections, support immediately after an ASD diagnosis and for explaining about the ASD diagnosis. All parts within the series are as follows:

Part 1: ASD-Early Identification

Part 2: ASD-Prevalence and Comorbid Issues

Part 3: ASD-Support (this article)

Part 4: ASD-Treatment

Part 5: ASD-Communicating with People Diagnosed with ASD

Support immediately after an ASD diagnosis:

Autism Navigator has many family and professional resources available (e.g. side-by-side videos of toddlers to demonstrate signs/symptoms of ASD, general information describing ASD, courses to purchase, etc

AutisticBehaviors are Human Behaviors (2 minute video)

The HanenCentre’s Autism Corner for parent information on building communication, coping with sensory needs, learning specific strategies to improve communication and interaction.

UniquelyHuman by Barry Prizant

Valley Medical Center Children’sTherapy general information about ASD as well as resources

Children’s and Parent Books and Resources Explaining ASD Diagnosis

Here is a list of suggested books and internet resources. Note: The summaries of the books and resources were copied from common internet resources.

Addendum (added Aug. 2020)

Important note to stress to medical providers: Patients with ASD and their families look toward their primary care physicians as members of their medical support system. As ASD is not unlike any other medical impairment, it is important for all providers to have discussions with their patients to discuss their understanding and treatment of the disorder, as well as, their patient’s own unique strengths and challenges to influence their medical care decisions. As a result, this will allow more open conversations and the ability to empower patients to advocate for their individual needs. Please use the PART 3 resources as guides listed above to discuss this disorder candidly with your patients.