Autism in Children, Teens and Adults
From Lisa Jo Rudy, former About.com Guide
As children grow up, new issues emerge. How do you teach an autistic teen to be "cool?" What about college? Jobs? Relationships?
Adults with autism have their own challenges: finding meaningful work, managing difficult sensory issues, and considering marriage.
Discover resources for a full life on the autism spectrum!
- Coping with an Autism Spectrum Diagnosis
- How to Enjoy Your Child with Autism
- Autism and Family Matters
- Growing Up On the Autism Spectrum
- Education and Autism
Coping with an Autism Spectrum Diagnosis
Parents are often overwhelmed by a child's autism spectrum diagnosis. Some parents experience grief; others are overcome by guilt; and still others are angry -- or determined to cure their child no matter what it takes. If you're coping with a new diagnosis, you're not alone -- and your feelings are perfectly understandable.
- What to Do After the Autism Spectrum Diagnosis
- What NOT to Do When Your Child is Diagnosed with Autism
- What NOT to Expect When Your Child Is Diagnosed with Autism
- Is It OK to Grieve When Your Child is Diagnosed with Autism?
- Helping Mothers of Children with Autism Cope with Depression
- Find Help for Coping with the Stress of Autism
- How to Overcome Grief and Anger Related to Autism
- Top Tips for Handling Guilt Over Your Child's Autism
- Before You Let an Autism Diagnosis Drive You Crazy
How to Enjoy Your Child with Autism
It's important for parents with autistic children to know they are not alone, and that it's ok to let their feelings out. Here are some resources for parents who are worried, stressed out and otherwise in need of a reason to smile.
- Before You Drive Yourself Crazy Over an Autism Diagnosis
- What If...? Getting Past Blame and Worry to Help Your Autistic Child
- Snappy Answers to Annoying Questions About Autism
- Thanks to Children with Autism
- Terrific Traits of Autistic People
- Attend Religious Services with an Autistic Child
- Enjoy the Holidays with an Autistic Child
- Vacationing with An Autistic Child
- Best Sports for Kids with Autism
Autism and Family Matters
Sooner or later, autism will have an impact on your family. Whether you're coping with a mother-in-law's judgment or a spouse's Asperger's syndrome, you'll probably need some advice and insight.
- How Do I Get the Support I Need from My Family?
- Balancing the Needs of an Autistic Child and a Typical Sibling
- Helping Dads Get Involved with Their Autistic Children
- How Can I Handle Marriage to an Autistic Spouse?
- Marital Stress and Bringing Up an Autistic Child
- Welcoming an Autistic Grandchild
- Help an Autistic Child Cope with Divorce
Growing Up On the Autism Spectrum
As autistic children grow, they enter school -- and the special education maze. Behavior, education and socialization skills may take priority in parents' minds. Autistic teens face unique social and communication challenges, and parents must take the leading in helping to shape educational and career choices.
As adults, people with autism must make their own choices, and it's not always easy.
Explore some resources for meeting autism's challenges through the lifespan.
- Tips for Understanding and Managing Your Autistic Child's Behavior
- How Can I Help My Autistic Teen to Be "Cool?"
- Transition Planning and Autism
- Autism and College Readiness
- Autistic Traits: A Plus for Many Careers
- Diagnosing Adults with Asperger Syndrome
- Finding the Right Home For Your Adult Child With Autism
- Parenting an Adult Child with Autism
- Special Needs Trust for the Adult with Autism
Education and Autism
From preschool to college and beyond, education is a complex issue for people on the autism spectrum. Here are resources, ideas and information to help you manage the challenges, pitfalls and opportunities.
