If you're like many families with autistic children, you're already rehearsing your patient explanations of why your child isn't out there playing touch football, giving Aunt Sally a big hug, or allowed to eat the jelly beans (or matzoh) "just this once."

In searching for good resources for managing extended family, I came across this really terrific printable page from E-How.com entitled "How to Support a Family With an Autistic Child." It lists "dos and don'ts," and includes comments from readers that may help your extended family to take a deep breath, count to ten, and offer support instead of curious, disapproving or anxious comment!