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The National Autism Resources website includes a variety of classroom tools and calming toys that children with autism can interact with whenever they need it. This is a great resource for both teachers and parents who have students with autism, in order for them to support their needs in every way possible. There are a variety of fidgets to keep them busy and there are multiple classroom resources to buy that are absolutely wonderful. Some tools that are included on the website are picture communication sets which allow the child to point at which emotion they may be feeling at that point in time. They also have a daily checklist and to do lists to keep track of what has been done for today and what should be accomplished. Not only that but they have tools for fine motor and handwriting, social skills, focus helpers, and etc.

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Special Ed Curriculum, Visual Supports & More: National Autism Resources

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Shop our online store for the visual supports, sensory tools, social skills curriculum you need for your students with autism.

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This video explains autism perfectly in ways for parents and teachers to understand what it is and how it may affect their child/ students every day lives. It is very informative and even addresses some facts and myths about autism. It addresses the risk factors, diagnostic factors, and how there is no known cause for autism as well. Symptoms for autism vary from person to person. Some symptoms include: speech and nonverbal communication, making eye contact, understanding expressions and feelings, interacting with peers, sensory processing, and etc. It is important that when dealing with students with autism that we must keep the same routines and procedures in their day to day lives.

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Understanding the difference between an IEP and 504 plan is extremely important for both teachers and parents. This website explains in depth the differences between an IEP and 504 plan and how you child may or may not qualify. An IEP is an Individualized Education Program is a legal document under United States law that is developed for each public school child in the U.S. who needs special education. It is created through a team of the child's parent and district personnel who are knowledgeable about the child's needs. A 504 Plan is a plan developed to ensure that a child who has a disability identified under the law and is attending an elementary or secondary educational institution receives accommodations that will ensure their academic success and access to the learning environment.

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Every school-aged child in the United States is legally entitled to a free and appropriate public education. That may sound straightforward, however as we know, every child is different and there are almost as many ways to define "appropriate" as there are snowflakes on the ground in Wisconsin right now. So if you and / or your child's school are advocating for planned modifications of any aspect of the school day, there are two main frameworks in which those discussions will most likely occur: the IEP (Individualized Education Plan) and the 504. What is the difference between an IEP and a 504? And which is right for your child?

Both the IEP and the 504 are federally mandated services provided free of charge to students in public schools. They both require annual meetings to review and update the plan and families/guardians are required to be invited and included in all planning decisions. Parents may also invite outside service providers or anyone else they would like to have attend the meetings. Both plans require three year recertifications to assess continuing need for services.

IEPs are covered under the Individuals with Disabilities Act (IDEA), a federal special education law. Your child meets the requirements for an IEP if they have a qualifying disability (autism is included) AND the disability impacts your child's classroom performance and / or the ability to benefit from the general curriculum so that specialized instruction is recommended. The benefits of an IEP are that it provides a road map for your child's education and related services as they move through the public school system. IEPs come with federal funding so this is how schools purchase adaptive materials and other resources; only students with IEPs can have dedicated classroom aides.

The IEP itself follows a strict format and content and must include sections on:

How the student is currently doing in school

Outlined annual education goals and how progress will be measured

Ancillary services provided by the school (including extended school year (ESY), speech, physical therapy, etc.)

Accommodations and modifications to the content and delivery system of instruction and testing and inclusion.

Parent concerns which is where families and guardians can submit any concerns about present or future skills or needs.

Any changes to the IEP must be communicated to the family in writing and the family can request current level of services be continued while disagreements are resolved.

The IEP itself follows a strict format and content and must include a section on how the student is currently doing in school, outline annual education goals and how progress will be measured, ancillary services provided by the school (including extended school year (ESY), speech, physical therapy, etc.), accommodations and modifications to the content and delivery system of instruction and testing and inclusion. The IEP also must include parent concerns which is where families and guardians can submit any concerns about present or future skills or needs.

504s are administered under Section 504 of the 1973 Rehabilitation Act and is part of the federal civil rights programs to prohibit discrimination against individuals with disabilities. Your student qualifies for a 504 plan if they meet the criteria of having a disability that limits one or more basic life activities, a much broader definition than for an IEP. 504s are designed to outline accommodations to school-based activities to achieve a student's potential. As 504s do not have funding for implementation, accommodations are typically environmental changes that are straightforward for general education teachers to implement on their own. Accommodations often seen in 504s include assigned seating or locker location, ability to use a standing desk when needed, access to alternative means of completing work (typing vs handwriting or short vs regular size pencil), or ability to choose independent instead of group work occasionally. The plan will identify who is responsible for implementing aspects of the plan and how implementation will be measured and communicated. There is no standard 504 plan and it doesn't have to be in writing, although it is highly recommended that it is. The Office of Civil Rights handles 504 complaints.

So which plan is right for your student? If your student has autism and requires changes to curriculum to be successful or safe, if dedicated support or small-group instruction is needed during any part of the school day (including between classes or recess), or if your student is performing below grade level, we would generally recommend an IEP.

If your student has autism and would benefit from no-cost accommodations to be successful in a general education classroom with the general curriculum, then a 504 may be the framework that is best for your family.

Remember that if you and your school disagree about which level of support your student needs, there are procedures for resolving disputes which are binding for the school district. Additionally, if your student's level of need changes, the plan type can change as well. If you have specific questions about what path is recommended for your student, please reach out to your senior, lead, or clinic directors.

~ Jennie Edes-Pierotti, BCBA

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Every school-aged child in the United States is legally entitled to a free and appropriate public education. That may sound straightforward, however as we know, every child is different and there are almost as many ways to define “appropriate” as there are snowflakes on the ground in Wisconsin right…

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This reading rockets article provides ten ideas that can help teachers support the needs of their students with autism in and outside of the classroom. It offers multiple strategies and skills in order to create an inclusive environment for all students. Some things mentioned were to utilize their interests and strengths while you are teaching them so you can allow them to share their knowledge and what they may already know, helping them with organizing their daily tasks or to do’s, and giving them time to take breaks throughout their day. It also speaks about giving them choices rather than forcing them to do certain activities or assignments. Giving choices shows that they do have a say in what goes on in their lives and gives them a chance to understand themselves and that their voice matters too.

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Supporting Students with Autism: 10 Ideas for Inclusive Classrooms

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Students with autism may have unique needs with learning, social skills, and communication. These ten simple ideas will help teachers address some of these needs and provide guidance for bringing out the best in learners with autism.

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The autism parenting magazine is a great guide for parents who may not know what resources they have access to, autism statistics, diagnosis, services, daily tips, parental advice, and so much more. It provides an array of information that gives wonderful advice and great insight into the world of ASD.

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If you're a parent of an autistic child, you know how important it is to have access to helpful resources and support.

We understand that your time is valuable, and that's why we're here to help. We have created a free resource guide specifically tailored to the needs of parents with autistic children.

This article will provide you with a comprehensive overview of autism resources for parents, including:

Information about autism: What is ASD? What are the symptoms? What are the causes?

Support groups and organizations: Where can you find support from other parents of children with ASD?

Educational resources: What are the best resources for learning about autism and how to help your child?

Therapy and treatment options: What are the different types of therapy and treatment available for children with ASD?

Legal rights and advocacy: What are your legal rights as a parent of a child with ASD? How can you advocate for your child's needs?

Autism Statistics

Autism Parenting Magazine realizes how busy parents are, so we've gathered the latest autism statistics compiled from CDC reports, reputable autism research, and our own exclusive data.

As part of the support we give parents during the COVID-19 crisis we have produced a set of guides specifically to help parents during this time. Find COVID-19 autism tips, social stories, visual schedules on many subjects such as social distancing, home schooling and more.

Diagnosis

Girls with autism are often misdiagnosed, misunderstood, and lack the essential support they need according to recent studies.
- Autism Parenting Magazine
Are you worried your child may be on the spectrum? Learn in this guide the signs of autism in babies, toddlers, and kids, as well as ASD diagnosis and interventions.

Behaviour

In this guide we discuss everything you need to know about to stimming and hand flapping.

Hyperlexia is described as the precocious self-taught ability to read usually before age five without comprehension of what is being read.

Access to Autism Services

This excellent resource includes vast information on programs, services, government agencies, and organizations that can help you as you care for a spouse, child, parent, or another family member. It has a list of helpful links for your reference.

Applied Behavior Analysis is a method of treating people with autism by modifying behavior using positive reinforcement.

Don't miss out on the Autism Parenting Summit.
Click here to sign up now!

Activities and Play Therapy for Kids with Special Needs
- Autism Parenting Magazine
This is our own list of mobile apps that help people on the spectrum and their families navigate daily challenges, enhance learning, and educate themselves on autism. These iPhone, iPad, and Android apps are great for ages ranging from two years old to adults.
- Autism Parenting Magazine
APM reached out to Amy Wagenfeld, PhD, OTR/L, SCEM, Research Coordinator at the Els Center of Excellence to provide an article on what makes LEGO® bricks an applicable intervention for therapists as well as an activity for groups. In her piece, Wagenfeld explains the fundamentals, the process, and the valuable social connections made when playing with LEGO® bricks.

Adults with Autism and Independent Living

In this guide, we discuss the best job opportunities for people with autism

Are you intimidated by the "failure to launch" syndrome for your young adult with autism spectrum disorder (ASD)? For most parents, the term translates into a fear factor, restraining them from helping their young adults with Asperger's syndrome to transition into the adult world.

Diet & Health Resources for Kids with Autism
- Autism Parenting Magazine
Learn how CBD oil can help children with conditions such as anxiety, aggression and self-injurious behaviors
- Autism Parenting Magazine
Dr. Kellman, a pioneer in functional medicine who has a holistic and visionary approach to healing, discusses a significant connection between the thyroid and the brain, urging parents to consider testing levels.
- Autism Parenting Magazine
Sarah Patten, the author of the book What to Feed an Asperger - How to Go from Three Foods to Three Hundred with Love, Patience and a Little Sleight of Hand shares with Autism Parenting Magazine her successful food journey with her son with Asperger's syndrome.
- Autism Parenting Magazine
From sleep and anxiety to digestive health and immunity boosts, essential oils have brought several benefits to ASD children. Go to this page, download your free guide, and learn the best essential oils for autism, ADHD, and ADD symptoms.
- Autism Parenting Magazine
Learn how yoga can have a positive effect on an ASD child's communication skills and anxiety levels while possibly reducing challenging behaviors and providing a better sense of self. Tips for teaching yoga to children with ASD are also provided.
- Autism Parenting Magazine
"Researches have shown that food and diet have a strong link with how the functioning of the brain. In this page, we discuss the effectiveness of probiotics or the so-called "friendly bacteria" and diets in helping ease the symptoms of autism."

Children with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) have long been prescribed vitamins, minerals, and natural supplements to help with sleep, gastrointestinal distress, and boost low vitamin levels, all of which are common in children and adults with ASD.

Autism Help and Community Support Groups

Many parents have found in enormous benefit in Autism Support Groups for families. These have given much needed encouragement, comfort, and advice. In this article we discuss the benefits of joining one as well as helping you find one in your area.

In order to help parents discern the most supportive states to raise a child with autism, we discuss a list of states ranked based on several factors that impact the lives of children with autism and their families.

Autism Daily Tips
- Autism Parenting Magazine
"Headbanging and self-injury are common ways for an ASD child to communicate needs. Check out this page and learn now why self-harm occurs and what you can do to protect your child from it."
- Autism Parenting Magazine
Toys, mobile apps, school supplies, movie theaters, vacation houses, outdoor activities, and more! We've listed the best products and services for individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and their families.
- Autism Parenting Magazine
"We've created this ultimate guide because we believe that finding a gift for a child with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) should be hassle-free. This guide includes general tips as well as a list of recommended gifts according to the ASD child's needs and condition."
- Autism Parenting Magazine
"Every April, people from all over the world celebrate autism awareness. This is to provide further education as well as resources and support to individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). On this page is a list of different ways on how you can promote autism awareness and celebrate with people on the spectrum."
- Autism Parenting Magazine
"Regressive autism is a condition in which an engaged, energetic child suddenly becomes quiet and uninterested. This sometimes leads to loss of speech and social skills. Check out this page to gain a deeper understanding of regressive autism, its signs and symptoms, possible treatments, and what parents can do if they observe these signs in their children."

Don't miss out on the Autism Parenting Summit.
Click here to sign up now!

- Autism Parenting Magazine
Social stories are one of the various tools and strategies that have helped many ASD children improve their communication and social skills. In this guide, you'll learn about the background and benefits of social stories and how you can write your own.

A BCBA who works primarily with children who have autism, Down syndrome, and other developmental delays shares her stories and connects with others who have a heart for special-needs individuals.

Autism Resources on Education
- Autism Parenting Magazine
Looking for a school for your ASD child? We know every child on the spectrum learns differently, so we've created this ultimate guide to help parents find the right school to give their children the support they need.

Homeschooling is becoming a popular option among parents with children on the spectrum, in this article we discuss the things you need to know

Financial Planning for Special Needs Children

Provides access to experts who can offer advice regarding the coordination of all necessary legal and financial arrangements surrounding a family member with special needs, including government benefits, communication, and tax strategies.

Saving for your child's future is a great step in helping him/her live a full life. An ABLE account is certainly one option that is available for you to use; however, it does have some drawbacks that you should be aware of before jumping in.

Autism Parental Advice
- Autism Parenting Magazine
Deanna Picon, author of The Autism Parents' Guide to Reclaiming Your Life, provides tips for couples to help them work together to keep the love alive.

A comprehensive support program which includes individual, confidential coaching sessions which address issues and concerns important to families affected by autism. Coaching sessions are available over the telephone to give parents convenience, flexibility, and privacy. Seminars are designed to give parents coping strategies and proven techniques to maintain a healthy emotional outlook.

Potty Training, Diapers, and Hygiene
- Autism Parenting Magazine
Potty Training is a big challenge for parents with children on the spectrum. This guide gives you everything you need to know about toilet training, including knowing the issues you may encounter, how to prepare your child, steps in the process, additional tips, and more.
- Autism Parenting Magazine
It's not always easy finding the larger-sized diaper products needed for children on the spectrum. Read about the financial assistance available to some families, from Medicare to private insurance, as well as a buying guide to finding the right product at a good price.

Good Autism Websites

Autism Parenting Magazine is the leading global magazine for parents of autistic children as well as professionals seeking to work with children on the spectrum. The magazine features articles from hundreds of contributors including respected professionals, autism experts, parents of children on the spectrum, and adults with autism.

One of the largest and most innovative private psychology practices in the nation that has taken psychology beyond traditional therapy and assessment. Offers presentations, webinars, podcasts, videos, and books relating to autism.

Excellent information on a variety of subjects provided by an autism activist, best-selling author, professor of animal science at Colorado State University, and consultant to the livestock industry on animal behavior. Includes special conference dates.

Autism Safety

Autism & Wandering

According to research, nearly half of all children with autism attempt to elope from a safe environment which has led to numerous tragedies. Learn the facts about wandering and how to keep loved ones safe from the Autism Wandering Awareness Alerts Response and Education (AWAARE) Collaboration.

Autism Resources for Parents About Sleep
- Autism Parenting Magazine
A licensed interior designer provides excellent advice for creating a calming bedroom space for children on the spectrum through the use of color, texture, and furniture placement.

Is it a struggle for your child with autism to relax and fall asleep? A therapeutic weighted blanket, also known as a sensory blanket, may be what your child needs to help reduce anxiety.

If you enjoyed our list of Autism resources for parents, we would really appreciate it if you could take a moment to share on social media.

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The Ultimate New Guide to Autism Resources for Parents

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Check out the ultimate guide to Autism resources for parents, teachers and caregivers. Including our editors pick of top articles, websites and directories. Please share....

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In this video we can physically see the differences between a neurotypical one year old and a one year old with ASD.  This video can be very helpful in trying to determine or detect the early signs of autism and understanding what kind of symptoms they may display. The first child with no ASD engages others while he is playing, shows meaningful pretend and purposeful play, smiles at people, and has very different behaviors vs the child with ASD. On the other hand, the first child with ASD does not engage with people while he is playing, does not respond when his name is being called, he does not smile at others who are in the room, and is fixated on the phone that is in the room with them. But because of this video, we can get a sense of what behaviors they may display and how they differ from a child who is neurotypical.

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Early Signs of Autism Video Tutorial | Kennedy Krieger Institute

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This two minute video is very informative for those who may be unaware or freshly new to the topic of autism. It speaks about the neuroscience behind autism and addresses the risk factors and mechanisms associated with it. There are great images displayed and the explanation is very well done which can help one really get a sense of the difference in a typical brain vs an autistic brain.

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These are very resourceful tips for teachers when handling children with autism spectrum disorder. It acknowledges that students with ASD may be masking themselves while in the classroom to hide their difficulties wether that may be behavioral meltdowns over transitions, or sensory overload and being over stimulated. A very important piece of advice is to give the child a break. Create a place in the class where the child can go to self regulate. Another tip is to create an individualized plan with the child’s parents in order to write down any needs, visual aids, homework, checklists and more to best support the needs of their child/ your student. Finally, to be aware of undiagnosed learning disabilities and give clear and concise instructions to the child at all times.

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Understanding which kind of behavior management system that works best for you and the needs of your child is absolutely essential. Often, many times parents will discipline their children in harsh manners or ignore their behaviors at all, but this video offers wonderful advice in finding the perfect balance to effectively deal with any kind of behavioral issues in children with ASD. It is gives parents a deep breath of fresh air when they can relate to this video personally. They really focus on and represent positive discipline management, which all parents and teachers can learn from as well.

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Positive Discipline For Autistic Children (Autism For Parents 12 -  Jul/Aug 22)

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The article above describes multiple strategies teachers can use for handling autism behavior challenges in the classroom. It states what kind of behaviors they may display and how we can effectively and positively redirect the students focus. Some ideas addressed were to follow a behavior plan, set and explain realistic expectations so the student understands clearly, let them know when you are transitioning to the next activity to avoid an outburst, and how to implement calming techniques when a student may become verbally or physically aggressive.