Handling Challenging Behaviors in Child Care and at Home: Autism

About Autism Spectrum Disorder
Autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) are a group of developmental disabilities that are caused by an abnormality in the brain. Children with ASDs tend to have problems with social and communication skills. They also are likely to repeat certain behaviors and resist change in their daily activities. ASDs begin during childhood and last throughout a person’s life. This online source from the Center for Disease Prevention and Control discusses symptoms, prevalence, treatment, and additional resources. Also available in Spanish.

Autism Resource Guide
This resource guide from the Illinois Early Intervention Clearinghouse includes books, videos, organizations, articles and other resources related to Autism. Also available in Spanish.

Autism Spectrum Disorder
This article from the American Academy of Pediatrics includes early signs of ASDs, definitions of the different types, diagnosis methods, and strategies to help a child with an ASD. Also available in Spanish.

About Autism Spectrum Disorder
This article from KidsHealth explains that children with autism have differences in the way their brains develop and process information. This can cause language delays and behavior problems. Symptoms and severity vary from child to child. New research can help diagnose and begin treatment for an autism disorder in a child at an early age. Also available in Spanish

Early Childcare Provider’s Guide to Managing Challenging Behaviors
The purpose of this toolkit is to present ways for early childcare providers to better manage challenging behaviors in a childcare setting.

Educating Children with Autism
This online book from the National Academic Press includes chapters on problem behaviors and instructional strategies for children with autism.

Parent Tips for Working with Teachers
Here are tips for parents to help them interact effectively with the education professionals who work with their child.

Sesame Street and Autism : See Amazing in All Children
Sesame Workshop created this initiative to offer families ways to manage common challenges, to simplify everyday activities, and to grow connections and support from family, friends, and community. Also in Spanish.

The Autism Program of Illinois
This program serves people with autism spectrum disorder and their families by coordinating with providers, parents, and Universities to ensure best practices.

Autism Society of America
This organization works to spread awareness about ASD and encourage appropriate services for people with ASD of all ages.

TEACCH
Treatment and Education of Autistic and Related Communication Handicapped Children provides services across the lifetime of individuals with autism.