These days, most children with autism are diagnosed early on. But that was not true 10-15 years ago.
If your teen or young adult has just been diagnosed with ASD, it can be a relief to find that there is a reason for their differences, and that there is a community that can understand and support them.
If they have a diagnosis, you’ll see there are many services and programs that can help them!
Here’s what you can do:
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Be supportive. Make sure they know this is a condition and is not their fault.
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Nurture their interests and talents. Help them do more of the things they enjoy and can do well.
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Help educate your community about autism so it can be understanding.
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Connect with the programs and people in your area who support people with autism.
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Watch the following video, created by a high school student to educate other teens about autism: "A Teen’s Guide to Autism" (It will open in a new tab on your screen.)
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Use our Resource Directory to find support services and recreational activities in your area! (It will open in a new tab.)
To learn more about helping teens with autism, click on the box below:
Click on the titles or web address, and they'll open in a new tab or window.
Remember you can print this out and look at them later! (That's why we wrote out the web addresses.)
Transitioning Teens with ASD: Resources and timeline planning for adult living
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This covers education planning, independent living skills, employment, healthcare, public benefits and getting guardianship. (74 pages)
Puberty and Adolescence Resource: A Guide for Parents
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This booklet helps you learn how to talk to your child about things like body changes, hygiene, and public vs. private behavior. It also includes practical tips for safety (running off, aggression, internet use, etc.)and much more. (31 pages)
Transition Toolkit: For Families on the Journey from Adolescence to Adulthood
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This covers transitioning from the IEP, diploma options, legal matters like guardianship and trusts, college education, housing and community living, employment and health. (68 pages)
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https://www.autismspeaks.org/docs/family_services_docs/transition.pdf
Video: A Teen's Guide to Autism
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https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p9-l19CKISg&feature=youtu.be
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This video was created by a high school student to educate other teens about autism. It's message is about learning to be sensitive about the quirks and challenges of those with ASD. (14 min.)
Sources: Autism Speaks, Autism Treatment Network, Autism Intervention Research Network on Physical Health, Autism Consortium