# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Where and How Should an Autistic Child Go to School?

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Wherever a child falls on the spectrum, school and learning can be harder for autistic children. Here are options for schooling and advice.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
The Asperger/Autism Network (AANE) helps people with Asperger's or similar autism spectrum disorders and neurodiverse profiles build meaningful, connected lives. They provide individuals, families, and professionals with information, education, community, support, and advocacy.

The Autism Society of Florida (an affiliate of the national Autism Society) strives to assure full participation and self-determination in every aspect of life for people across the autism spectrum. The society offers individuals, families, and professionals information on autism throughout the lifespan, resources and support groups, and initiatives for advocacy and training.

Autism Speaks is dedicated to promoting solutions, across the spectrum and throughout the life span, for the needs of individuals with autism and their families. This is carried out through advocacy and support, increasing understanding and acceptance of people with autism, and advancing research into causes and better interventions for autism spectrum disorder and related conditions. Autism Speaks offers information specifically for those experiencing a new autism diagnosis.

The Center for Autism and Related Disabilities (CARD) provides support and assistance with the goal of optimizing the potential of people with autism and related conditions. The CARD website provides information that connects families to local, state, and federal agencies, support groups, and training on how to work effectively with individuals with autism and related conditions.

The Dan Marino Foundation is a non-profit organization that partners with Miami Children's Hospital to create the Nicklaus Children's Hospital Dan Marino Outpatient Center. The center is a comprehensive evaluation and treatment center for children with autism and other special needs.

Family Initiative works to develop an individualized plan to celebrate a child's abilities and help them advance using a multi-disciplinary approach to promote growth and ensure they survive.

The Florida Department of Financial Services, Division of Consumer Services hosts a website for individuals with ASD and their families. This website offers resources and support on insurance policies and benefits available to individuals diagnosed with ASD.

The US Autism Association's mission is to provide opportunity for all individuals on the autism spectrum to achieve their fullest potential. The association works towards their goal by expanding and enriching the autism community through education, training, resources, and connection to support for individuals and their families.

Support Groups:
Autism Society of Greater Orlando My Autism Connection Inc.
Parenting Asperger's Community

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
On this page you will find additional Autism Resources.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Autism Speaks does not provide medical or legal advice or services. Rather, Autism Speaks provides general information about autism as a service to the community. The information provided on our website is not a recommendation, referral or endorsement of any resource, therapeutic method, or service provider and does not replace the advice of medical, legal or educational professionals. Autism Speaks has not validated and is not responsible for any information, events, or services provided by third parties. The views and opinions expressed in blogs on our website do not necessarily reflect the views of Autism Speaks.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
School activities that may be particularly challenging for students with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), previously referred to as Asperger's disorder, include social interactions, noisy or disordered environments, intense sensory stimulation, and changes in expected routines. The unstructured parts of the school day, such as lunch, may present the greatest challenges. Many students with ASD have difficulty using a pencil and paper for writing. Some have difficulty with organization and schedules.

Although each individual is unique and the student and family should be consulted regarding accommodations, the following accommodations may be helpful to students with ASD:

clearly established and ordered routines

warning and preparation when changes are anticipated

planning and practicing of communication strategies and social routines

earplugs or noise-canceling headsets in hallways or lunchroom

a quiet area where the student can take a time-out if necessary

visual schedules and graphic organizers

visual or written, rather than auditory, instructions

computer use, especially word processing for writing

note taker

For additional information and resources on working with students with ASD, consult the Guide for Working with Students with Asperger's Syndrome.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
What are typical challenges and accommodations for students with Autism Spectrum Disorder? | DO-IT

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
School activities that may be particularly challenging for students with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), previously referred to as Asperger’s disorder, include social interactions, noisy or disordered environments, intense sensory stimulation, and changes in expected routines. The unstructured parts…

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Autism Special Needs Checklist: Big Kids (ages 6-12)

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Having a plan for the future can help your big kid reach his or her full potential. Follow this 8-step checklist to help your child succeed during the elementary school years.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Autism in the classroom: Strategies for success | Autism Speaks

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
This excerpt from the School Community Tool Kit offers strategies for teachers to help support students with autism so they get the best education possible.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Visual Rules and Expectations (FREEBIE!) - Autism Classroom Resources

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Classroom management relies on having a set of clear expectations. Check out how to create your classroom rules to get your classroom management off to the best start!

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Diagnosis

Your child's doctor will look for signs of developmental delays at regular checkups. If your child shows any symptoms of autism spectrum disorder, you'll likely be referred to a specialist who treats children with autism spectrum disorder, such as a child psychiatrist or psychologist, pediatric neurologist, or developmental pediatrician, for an evaluation.

Because autism spectrum disorder varies widely in symptoms and severity, making a diagnosis may be difficult. There isn't a specific medical test to determine the disorder. Instead, a specialist may:

Observe your child and ask how your child's social interactions, communication skills and behavior have developed and changed over time

Give your child tests covering hearing, speech, language, developmental level, and social and behavioral issues

Present structured social and communication interactions to your child and score the performance

Use the criteria in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), published by the American Psychiatric Association

Include other specialists in determining a diagnosis

Recommend genetic testing to identify whether your child has a genetic disorder such as Rett syndrome or fragile X syndrome

Treatment

No cure exists for autism spectrum disorder, and there is no one-size-fits-all treatment. The goal of treatment is to maximize your child's ability to function by reducing autism spectrum disorder symptoms and supporting development and learning. Early intervention during the preschool years can help your child learn critical social, communication, functional and behavioral skills.

The range of home-based and school-based treatments and interventions for autism spectrum disorder can be overwhelming, and your child's needs may change over time. Your health care provider can recommend options and help identify resources in your area.

If your child is diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder, talk to experts about creating a treatment strategy and build a team of professionals to meet your child's needs.

Treatment options may include:

Behavior and communication therapies. Many programs address the range of social, language and behavioral difficulties associated with autism spectrum disorder. Some programs focus on reducing problem behaviors and teaching new skills. Other programs focus on teaching children how to act in social situations or communicate better with others. Applied behavior analysis (ABA) can help children learn new skills and generalize these skills to multiple situations through a reward-based motivation system.

Educational therapies. Children with autism spectrum disorder often respond well to highly structured educational programs. Successful programs typically include a team of specialists and a variety of activities to improve social skills, communication and behavior. Preschool children who receive intensive, individualized behavioral interventions often show good progress.

Family therapies. Parents and other family members can learn how to play and interact with their children in ways that promote social interaction skills, manage problem behaviors, and teach daily living skills and communication.

Other therapies. Depending on your child's needs, speech therapy to improve communication skills, occupational therapy to teach activities of daily living, and physical therapy to improve movement and balance may be beneficial. A psychologist can recommend ways to address problem behavior.

Medications. No medication can improve the core signs of autism spectrum disorder, but specific medications can help control symptoms. For example, certain medications may be prescribed if your child is hyperactive; antipsychotic drugs are sometimes used to treat severe behavioral problems; and antidepressants may be prescribed for anxiety. Keep all health care providers updated on any medications or supplements your child is taking. Some medications and supplements can interact, causing dangerous side effects.

Managing other medical and mental health conditions

In addition to autism spectrum disorder, children, teens and adults can also experience:

Planning for the future

Children with autism spectrum disorder typically continue to learn and compensate for problems throughout life, but most will continue to require some level of support. Planning for your child's future opportunities, such as employment, college, living situation, independence and the services required for support can make this process smoother.

Clinical trials

Explore Mayo Clinic studies testing new treatments, interventions and tests as a means to prevent, detect, treat or manage this condition.

Alternative medicine

Because autism spectrum disorder can't be cured, many parents seek alternative or complementary therapies, but these treatments have little or no research to show that they're effective. You could, unintentionally, reinforce negative behaviors. And some alternative treatments are potentially dangerous.

Talk with your child's doctor about the scientific evidence of any therapy that you're considering for your child.

Examples of complementary and alternative therapies that may offer some benefit when used in combination with evidence-based treatments include:

Creative therapies. Some parents choose to supplement educational and medical intervention with art therapy or music therapy, which focuses on reducing a child's sensitivity to touch or sound. These therapies may offer some benefit when used along with other treatments.

Sensory-based therapies. These therapies are based on the unproven theory that people with autism spectrum disorder have a sensory processing disorder that causes problems tolerating or processing sensory information, such as touch, balance and hearing. Therapists use brushes, squeeze toys, trampolines and other materials to stimulate these senses. Research has not shown these therapies to be effective, but it's possible they may offer some benefit when used along with other treatments.

Massage. While massage may be relaxing, there isn't enough evidence to determine if it improves symptoms of autism spectrum disorder.

Pet or horse therapy. Pets can provide companionship and recreation, but more research is needed to determine whether interaction with animals improves symptoms of autism spectrum disorder.

Some complementary and alternative therapies may not be harmful, but there's no evidence that they're helpful. Some may also include significant financial cost and be difficult to implement. Examples of these therapies include:

Some complementary and alternative treatments do not have evidence that they are beneficial and they're potentially dangerous. Examples of complementary and alternative treatments that are not recommended for autism spectrum disorder include:

Coping and support

Raising a child with autism spectrum disorder can be physically exhausting and emotionally draining. These suggestions may help:

Find a team of trusted professionals. A team, coordinated by your doctor, may include social workers, teachers, therapists, and a case manager or service coordinator. These professionals can help identify and evaluate the resources in your area and explain financial services and state and federal programs for children and adults with disabilities.

Keep records of visits with service providers. Your child may have visits, evaluations and meetings with many people involved in his or her care. Keep an organized file of these meetings and reports to help you decide about treatment options and monitor progress.

Learn about the disorder. There are many myths and misconceptions about autism spectrum disorder. Learning the truth can help you better understand your child and his or her attempts to communicate.

Take time for yourself and other family members. Caring for a child with autism spectrum disorder can put stress on your personal relationships and your family. To avoid burnout, take time out to relax, exercise or enjoy your favorite activities. Try to schedule one-on-one time with your other children and plan date nights with your spouse or partner - even if it's just watching a movie together after the children go to bed.

Seek out other families of children with autism spectrum disorder. Other families struggling with the challenges of autism spectrum disorder may have useful advice. Some communities have support groups for parents and siblings of children with the disorder.

Ask your doctor about new technologies and therapies. Researchers continue to explore new approaches to help children with autism spectrum disorder. See the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website on autism spectrum disorders for helpful materials and links to resources.

Preparing for your appointment

Your child's health care provider will look for developmental problems at regular checkups. Mention any concerns you have during your appointment. If your child shows any signs of autism spectrum disorder, you'll likely be referred to a specialist who treats children with the disorder for an evaluation.

Bring a family member or friend with you to the appointment, if possible, to help you remember information and for emotional support.

Here's some information to help you prepare for your appointment.

What you can do

Before your child's appointment, make a list of:

Any medications, including vitamins, herbs and over-the-counter medicines that your child is taking, and their dosages.

Any concerns you have about your child's development and behavior.

When your child began talking and reaching developmental milestones. If your child has siblings, also share information about when they reached their milestones.

A description of how your child plays and interacts with other children, siblings and parents.

Questions to ask your child's doctor to make the most of your time.

In addition, it may be helpful to bring:

Questions to ask your child's doctor may include:

Why do you think my child does (or doesn't) have autism spectrum disorder?

Is there a way to confirm the diagnosis?

If my child does have autism spectrum disorder, is there a way to tell how severe it is?

What changes can I expect to see in my child over time?

What kind of special therapies or care do children with autism spectrum disorder need?

How much and what kinds of regular medical care will my child need?

What kind of support is available to families of children with autism spectrum disorder?

How can I learn more about autism spectrum disorder?

Don't hesitate to ask other questions during your appointment.

What to expect from your child's doctor

Your child's doctor is likely to ask you a number of questions. Be ready to answer them to reserve time to go over any points you want to focus on. Your doctor may ask:

What specific behaviors prompted your visit today?

When did you first notice these signs in your child? Have others noticed signs?

Have these behaviors been continuous or occasional?

Does your child have any other symptoms that might seem unrelated to autism spectrum disorder, such as stomach problems?

Does anything seem to improve your child's symptoms?

What, if anything, appears to worsen symptoms?

When did your child first crawl? Walk? Say his or her first word?

What are some of your child's favorite activities?

How does your child interact with you, siblings and other children? Does your child show interest in others, make eye contact, smile or want to play with others?

Does your child have a family history of autism spectrum disorder, language delay, Rett syndrome, obsessive-compulsive disorder, or anxiety or other mood disorders?

What is your child's education plan? What services does he or she receive through school?

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Autism spectrum disorder is a serious condition related to brain development that impairs the ability to communicate and interact with others.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Autism, or autism spectrum disorder (ASD), refers to a broad range of conditions characterized by challenges with social skills, repetitive behaviors, speech and nonverbal communication. According to the Centers for Disease Control, autism affects an estimated 1 in 36 children in the United States today.

We know that there is not one autism but many subtypes, most influenced by a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Because autism is a spectrum disorder, each person with autism has a distinct set of strengths and challenges. The ways in which people with autism learn, think and problem-solve can range from highly skilled to severely challenged. Some people with ASD may require significant support in their daily lives, while others may need less support and, in some cases, live entirely independently.

Several factors may influence the development of autism, and it is often accompanied by sensory sensitivities and medical issues such as gastrointestinal (GI) disorders, seizures or sleep disorders, as well as mental health challenges such as anxiety, depression and attention issues.

Signs of autism usually appear by age 2 or 3. Some associated development delays can appear even earlier, and often, it can be diagnosed as early as 18 months. Research shows that early intervention leads to positive outcomes later in life for people with autism.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
What is autism spectrum disorder (asd)? Click here to read the definition, learn about different types of autism and how to help autistic kids.