Autism and Family Life

Are you the grandparent of a child with autism? What are the challenges you face in connecting with your grandchild? What tips can you share for building a bond with an autistic grandchild?

When a niece, nephew, or friend's child is suddenly diagnosed as autistic, it can be hard to know what to say or do. If you have an autistic child, you probably have hints or tips to help. What do you need? What drives you crazy? Are there great ways for a friend or relative to help?

Unless you're a person with autism, the parent of a child with autism, or a person who actually works with autistic people, you may have some pretty offbeat ideas about autism. Here's autism information to share with friends and family to help bridge the gap between myths and reality.

How can libraries welcome people with autism? Here are tools and information from an organization called "We're Connected."

When friends or family members have an autistic child, things seem to change. How can you help without interfering? How can you keep the relationship going?

What's the best way to help firefighters and police to help your loved one with autism? Here are suggestions from a firefighter who specializes in special needs situations.

Is your autistic child included in religious education or services? How did you make it happen?

What's it like to be an "autism mother?" These Mother's Day essays from mothers around the world provide insight into the world of autism mothering. You're sure to find at least one that resonates with your experience. Enjoy!

Your autistic child may have a very hard time using spoken language, following direction, or even sitting still. Can your autistic child be a part of the Catholic Church?

Does genetic autism run in your family? Tell your story!

When your brother or sister is autistic, your life can be complex. Sometimes, typical siblings of children with autism need a little extra help.

Should parents of a child with autism have more children? What are the possible risks and benefits? Drs. Robert Naseef and Cindy Ariel discuss the implications of parents of a child with autism having more children.

Some parents with children on the autism spectrum are naturally social people. They grew up with lots of friends, and it hurts to see their child alone or hanging out with just one other person. Drs. Robert Naseef and Cindy Ariel discuss what social life might look like for a child on the autism spectrum.

Autism, anxiety and sleep disturbances often go together. Drs. Robert Naseef and Cindy Ariel address a parent's concerns about nightmares, and offer specific advice.

How can a grandparent living far away prepare to welcome an autistic grandchild? This article by Drs. Bob Naseef and Cindy Ariel offers ideas and direction for grandparents who want to support and embrace their autistic grandchild.

When you or your child is diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder, your family may not offer the support you need. They may deny the diagnosis or even place the blame on you. Family therapist Dr. Cindy Ariel offers advice on this issue.

After their child is diagnosed on the autism spectrum, parents may feel isolated from the world. Instead of taking part in typical parent-child activities, they're managing therapy. Drs. Naseef and Ariel offer practical suggestions on how to cope.

Children with autism need a lot of support - but so do their siblings. Psychologists Bob Naseef and Cindy Ariel offer their insights on balancing the needs of children on and off the autism spectrum.

If you've been staying home with your autistic family member, now is the time to rediscover the cultural community. Many museums are becoming attuned to autism, and creating special opportunities for your family to visit. Is there an autism friendly museum near you?

In many families with autistic children, the mom takes a leading role. She may become researcher and therapist, advocate and manager. This can leave a dad feeling disconnected from his child -- and even his family. How can dads get more involved with their autistic child? Here are in-depth responses from Drs. Bob Naseef and Cindy Ariel.

What's it like to have a sibling on the autism spectrum? Depending upon circumstances, it can be tough. The Autism Society of America offers these tips for helping your "neurotypical" child handle this complex relationship.

Here are some thoughts and tips for finding balance in a family with autism. With care and love, you can keep yourself and your family strong for the long haul.

When a child is autistic, finding balance for your family can be a challenge. If you've found resources or developed ideas to help you keep a sane and balanced family life while living with autism, please share them here!

Autism moms are an outspoken group. If you're an autism mom, you probably have plenty to share about your experiences - and about the ups and downs of living, day to day, with the challenges and joys of autism. Share your story!

This introduction to play and autism offers parents tips and resources for overcoming some serious challenges. Yes, you can play with your autistic child!