Top Autism Organizations and Web Resources (2023)

Searching for autism information on the web can be overwhelming. So, where do you turn to for the most relevant information and resources when there are so many different options? We created this list based on recommendations from leading ASD organizations.

Advocacy, information, and support

Asperger/Autism Network

The Asperger/Autism Network (AANE) provides individuals, families, and professionals with information, education, community, support, and advocacy.

Autism Highway

Started by a woman whose son was diagnosed with autism, Autism Highway is both informative and fun. The website is easy to navigate and it provides an extensive list of autism-related events and specialists. In addition, Autism Highway includes interactive games for kids.

Autism Navigator

Autism Navigator is a collection of web-based tools and courses developed to bridge the gap between science and community practice. They have integrated the most current research into an interactive web platform with video to illustrate effective evidence-based practice. The video clips come from the rich library of video from federally funded research projects at the Autism Institute at Florida State University.

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Autism Research Institute

The Autism Research Institute focuses on researching the causes of autism, as well as developing safe and effective treatments for those currently affected by the disorder.

Autism Society

The Autism Society is a grassroots autism organization working to increase public awareness about the day-to-day issues about people across the spectrum, advocate for appropriate services for individuals of every age, and provide the latest information regarding treatment, education, research, and advocacy. The Autism Society has local affiliates, state affiliates or a combination of both in almost every state. The society has also partnered with AMC Entertainment to provide children affected by autism the opportunity to watch hit movies in a sensory-friendly environment, with the lights turned up and the sound turned down. Find a list of upcoming films in your city here.

Autism Speaks

Autism Speaks is an autism awareness, science, and advocacy organization. The website provides a comprehensive resource guide for all states. The 100 Day Kit for Newly Diagnosed Families of Young Childrenwascreated specifically for families of children ages 4 and under.Visit Autism Speaks to see their comprehensive listing ofautism websites for families.

Disability Scoop

Sign up for Disability Scoop’s e-mail news to receive the most current updates on developmental disabilities. Disability Scoop’s experts have been cited by multiple online news sites.

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MyAutismTeam

A free social network for parents of kids with autism. With over 30,000 parents registered on the site, you can find parents just like you based on where you live, the age of your child, your child's sub-diagnosis and developmental needs, and gender. Parents share tips, support, and photos, as well as ask and answer each others' questions. In addition, there is a searchable provider directory of over 35,000 autism specialists and autism-friendly providers constantly updated by parents on the site. MyAutismTeam is the official social network and resource guide for Autism Speaks.

Organization for Autism Research

OAR’s mission is to apply research to the challenges of autism. The organization uses science to address the social, educational, and treatment concerns of self-advocates, parents, autism professionals, and caregivers. In addition to funding research, OAR disseminates new and useful information to as many members of the autism community as possible, and directs all research and programs initiatives toward enhancing the quality of life for individuals with autism.

Sesame Street and Autism: See Amazing in All Children

Sesame Workshop created Sesame Street and Autism: See Amazing in All Children, a nationwide initiative aimed at communities with children ages 2 to 5. Developed with input from parents, people who serve the autism community, and people with autism, See Amazing in All Children offers families ways to overcome common challenges and simplify everyday activities. The project also fosters an affirming narrative around autism for all families and kids.

Wrightslaw Special Education Law and Advocacy

A great site for accurate, reliable information about special education law, education law, and advocacy for children with disabilities. Early intervention is invaluable because it links parents to services in the community, but it can be hard to find services without a long waiting list. Families can search on their own for providers using the Wrightslaw Yellow Pages for Kids With Disabilities.

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Especially for professionals

American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA)

ASHA is the national professional, scientific, and credentialing association for audiologists; speech-language pathologists; speech, language, and hearing scientists; audiology and speech-language pathology support personnel; and students. On the ASHA website you can find an overview of Autism Spectrum Disorder as well as specific information about ASD for speech-language pathologists.

The National Association of Special Education Teachers (NASET)

NASET is a national membership organization dedicated to supporting teachers in the field of special education. NASET offers a rich library of information on a wide range of ASD topics, as well as the publication, Autism Spectrum Disorders Series.

Federal agencies and federally-funded organizations

Center for Parent Information and Resources (CPIR)

The Center for Parent Information and Resources (CPIR) serves as a central resource of information and products to the community of Parent Training Information (PTI) Centers and the Community Parent Resource Centers (CPRCs). The Parent Training and Information Centers (PTI) found in every state are a rich source of information and training tailored for parents, including parents whose primary language is not English or themselves have special training needs. In addition, Community Parent Resource Centers (CPRC) throughout the country serve targeted, underserved communities. To find the PTI or CPRC that serves your community, go to the Center on Parent Information and Resources.

The Center on Technology and Disability

The Center is designed to increase the capacity of families and providers to advocate for, acquire, and implement effective assistive and instructional technology (AT/IT)practices, devices, and services. Research-basedtechnologies have great potential to help infants, toddlers, children, and youth with disabilities participate fully in daily routines; have increased access to the general educational curriculum; improve their functional outcomes and educational results; and meet college- and career-ready standards.

Early Childhood Technical Assistance Center (ECTA)

The Early Childhood Technical Assistance Center (ECTA), located at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, supports the strengthening of state and local service systems to ensure that children with disabilities and their families receive high-quality, evidence-based, culturally appropriate, and family-centered support and services.

IRIS Center

The IRIS Center, funded by the Office of Special Education Programs and based at Vanderbilt University and Claremont Graduate University, creates and disseminates resources about evidence-based instructional and intervention practices for preservice preparation and professional development programs. See the Autism Spectrum Disorder self-guided training modules for teachers.

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National Professional Development Center on Autism Spectrum Disorders

The National Professional Development Center on Autism Spectrum Disorder (NPDC) has worked to develop free professional resources for teachers, therapists, and technical assistance providers who work with individuals with ASD. Resources include detailed information on how to plan, implement, and monitor specific evidence-based practices.

The U.S. Department of Education

When your child enters public school, he or she has rights under federal and state laws. The U.S. Department of Education has information about federal laws and state laws. The Department's Office of Special Education Programs (OSEP) supports projects that provide information and technical assistance to families of infants, toddlers, children and youth with disabilities. Families can also find a wealth of information about the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) at OSEP's IDEA website. The website contains the full text of IDEA and the regulations, as well as guidance documents and a wide range of other resources.

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FAQs

What state has the best resources for children with autism? ›

From the research carried out, it was also found that all except three states within the top 10 were on the west coast of America. California ranked number one for being most supportive in terms of grants, state laws, and ADDM inclusion. California is currently the only state that has made services and supports for ...

What is the most effective intervention for autism? ›

Developmental Approaches

The most common developmental therapy for people with ASD is Speech and Language Therapy. Speech and Language Therapy helps to improve the person's understanding and use of speech and language.

What is the best country for autism services? ›

  • Netherlands.
  • New Zealand.
  • Germany.
  • United Kingdom.
  • Austria.
  • Uruguay.
  • Spain.
  • Canada.
10 Jun 2016

What resources do autistic people need? ›

Advocacy, information, and support
  • Asperger/Autism Network. ...
  • Autism Highway. ...
  • Autism Navigator. ...
  • Autism Research Institute. ...
  • Autism Society. ...
  • Autism Speaks. ...
  • Disability Scoop. ...
  • MyAutismTeam.

Who is the best professional to diagnose autism? ›

Who is Qualified to Diagnose Autism: Developmental Pediatricians (Developmental-Behavioral Pediatricians) Developmental pediatricians are medical doctors who possess the training and experience to diagnose autism and other developmental difficulties.

What school is best for high functioning autism? ›

The Temple Grandin School (TGS) is one of the best private schools for autism.

What is the best city for autism? ›

– The greater New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, Cleveland, Philadelphia and Boston metropolitan areas are among the 10 best places in America to live for people who have autism, according to the results of an online survey released today.

What helps calm autism? ›

A child with autism can learn to calm themselves by being taught what to do when anxiety strikes. Provide the child with tools to self-soothe, such as sensory toys, calming books or videos, weighted blankets, a swing set, or even a pet.

What is new in autism treatment? ›

PaxMedica Inc., has announced that PAX-101 (IV suramin), an investigational drug being developed as a potential treatment for the core symptoms of autism spectrum disorder (ASD), achieved marked and sustained improvement in several efficacy assessment measures in its Phase II trial.

What are calming strategies for autism? ›

7 Relaxation/Self-Calming Strategies Used in Pediatric ABA...
  • Don't reinforce the challenging behaviors. ...
  • Use precise simple language. ...
  • Help to verbally express their emotions. ...
  • Sing preferred songs. ...
  • Create a calm corner (bean bags, dim lighting, sensory toys) ...
  • Take deep breathes. ...
  • Count to 10.

What state is autism most common? ›

The three states with the highest prevalence of autism diagnoses are Rhode Island, Maryland, and Florida, all with rates of over 4%. The majority of states have autism diagnosis rates between 2% and 3.9%. 10 states have an autism diagnosis prevalence of less than 2%.

Which state is best for adults with autism? ›

According to Autism Speaks, for example, Texas, Virginia, Tennessee, Ohio, and Florida are less likely than states like Arizona and New Jersey to offer top-level services for adults.

Where is autism most common in the world? ›

The big picture: India has the largest number of autistic children (851,000), followed by China (422,000), Nigeria (207,000), Pakistan (172,000) and Indonesia (159,000).

What skills are autistic people good at? ›

Autistic people may display a range of strengths and abilities that can be directly related to their diagnosis, including:
  • Learning to read at a very early age (known as hyperlexia).
  • Memorising and learning information quickly.
  • Thinking and learning in a visual way.
  • Logical thinking ability.

What is the best therapy for adults with autism? ›

Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a type of talk therapy that can be effective in helping children and adults. During CBT sessions, people learn about the connections between feelings, thoughts, and behaviors. This may help to identify the thoughts and feelings that trigger negative behaviors.

What benefits do autistic adults get? ›

If you have an official diagnosis of autism, you are able to seek protection and accommodations in all federally funded programs – employment, housing, community living, etc. – under this law.

Who Cannot diagnose autism? ›

Professionals such as teachers, therapists, and counselors can recommend a screening, but that can not officially diagnose. An autism specialist refers to the DSM-5, a mental and neurological disorder guideline where certain criteria must be met for a diagnosis in children and adults.

How is autism inherited? ›

Inheritance. ASD has a tendency to run in families, but the inheritance pattern is usually unknown. People with gene changes associated with ASD generally inherit an increased risk of developing the condition, rather than the condition itself.

Does high functioning autism get better with age? ›

Autism is a lifelong condition that will not disappear as your child becomes an adult. Some symptoms, including social struggles and the need to repeat behaviors, will stay with your child forever.

What is the lowest degree of autism? ›

ASD Level 1 – Level 1 ASD is currently the lowest classification. Those on this level will require some support to help with issues like inhibited social interaction and lack of organization and planning skills.

How long can a child with autism live? ›

One of the most important investigations of recent years revealed that average life expectancy of a person with severe autism is 39.5 years, rising to only 58 years for those with high-functioning autism, or Asperger syndrome.

Why autism is increasing in US? ›

The prevalence of autism in the United States has risen steadily since researchers first began tracking it in 2000. The rise in the rate has sparked fears of an autism 'epidemic. ' But experts say the bulk of the increase stems from a growing awareness of autism and changes to the condition's diagnostic criteria.

Should a child with autism go to normal school? ›

Autism Programs and IEP in Public Schools

Can children with autism attend regular school? Of course they can, but it is important to have accommodations in place that support the special learning needs of a child on the spectrum.

What state has the best public schools for autism? ›

Below we have highlighted some of the top schools for children with autism across the country.
  • South Carolina.
  • Tennessee.
  • Texas.
  • Utah.
  • Virginia.
  • Vermont.
  • Washington.
  • Wisconsin.

What are the three major areas affected by autism? ›

These disorders are characterized by three core deficits: impaired communication, impaired reciprocal social interaction and restricted, repetitive and stereotyped patterns of behaviors or interests.

What is an autism friendly town? ›

The Autism Friendly Communities initiative follows a series of principles aimed at fostering autism inclusion and empowerment in local communities. These are referred to as the Autism Friendly Town Commitment and includes: Creating a 3-year charter inclusion plan. Undergoing understandable staff training.

What triggers autism meltdowns? ›

What triggers autistic meltdowns?
  • Sensory overload or understimulation. This is when a child is sensitive to sound, touch, taste, smell, visuals or movements.
  • Changes in routine or dealing with an unexpected change. ...
  • Anxiety or anxious feelings.
  • Being unable to describe what they need or want.

How do you calm an angry autistic child? ›

What to do during a very loud, very public meltdown
  1. Be empathetic. Empathy means listening and acknowledging their struggle without judgment. ...
  2. Make them feel safe and loved. ...
  3. Eliminate punishments. ...
  4. Focus on your child, not staring bystanders. ...
  5. Break out your sensory toolkit. ...
  6. Teach them coping strategies once they're calm.
18 Apr 2018

How do you stop an autistic meltdown? ›

There are several steps that can be used to manage autism meltdowns.
  1. Identify the possible cause of meltdowns. It can be helpful to track a child's meltdowns. ...
  2. Anticipate and circumvent the meltdown before it occurs. ...
  3. Minimize potential triggers. ...
  4. Stay calm. ...
  5. Give the child space when needed. ...
  6. Use a distraction.
11 Jun 2020

Is there a cure coming soon for autism? ›

There is no cure for autism, and many experts agree that a cure isn't the answer. Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a complicated condition that stems from plenty of competing triggers, including genes, the environment, and parental health.

Can autism be fully recovered? ›

Recovery in autistic disorder is rare. There are few reports of recovery from autistic disorder after a few years of therapeutic intervention. We report here a case of autistic disorder who recovered spontaneously without any intervention in 13 days.

What is the gold standard for treatment of autism? ›

ABA is considered the gold standard for the treatment of children with autism. Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is one of the major specialized treatments DE offers to children with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD). ABA is the application of the principles of behavior to problems of social significance.

What color is calming for autism? ›

Greens, blues, pinks, soft oranges and neutrals can be very comforting. Keeping the colors muted, these tones can quiet the mind and create calm.

How do you keep an autistic person busy? ›

Find all your board games and bring them out for turn-taking with your child! Pick a game to play each day or every other day to include the whole family! Play Charades with your child or children! Have them either help create different subjects or make it fun by teaming up and having them act out a card together!

How do autistic adults deal with anger? ›

Recommended Steps for Anger management
  1. Becoming motivated. The person identifies why they would like to manage anger more successfully. ...
  2. Self-awareness. ...
  3. Awareness of situations. ...
  4. Levels of anger and coping strategies. ...
  5. Develop an anger management record. ...
  6. My goal. ...
  7. Typical angry thoughts. ...
  8. New calmer and helpful thoughts.

Is Autism Society of America a good charity? ›

Good. This charity's score is 87.11, earning it a 3-Star rating. Donors can "Give with Confidence" to this charity.

Where is the best place to live for autism? ›

– The greater New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, Cleveland, Philadelphia and Boston metropolitan areas are among the 10 best places in America to live for people who have autism, according to the results of an online survey released today.

Is Autism Speaks a reputable charity? ›

Good. This charity's score is 83.59, earning it a 3-Star rating. Donors can "Give with Confidence" to this charity.

Is next for Autism a good organization? ›

NEXT for AUTISM enjoys a three-star rating on Charity Navigator.

Which states have the best autism programs? ›

Best States for Raising a Child with Autism:

Colorado. Massachusetts. New Jersey. Connecticut.

Where is the highest rate of autism in the US? ›

According to the ADDM Network, California is the state that has the highest prevalence of autism diagnoses, with it being 30+ out of every 1,000 identified children in 2018.

Is the miracle project a good charity? ›

This charity's score is a passing score.

What school is best for high functioning autism? ›

The Temple Grandin School (TGS) is one of the best private schools for autism.

Which state is best for autistic adults? ›

As a result, some states provide generously for adults with autism while others are less than generous. According to Autism Speaks, for example, Texas, Virginia, Tennessee, Ohio, and Florida are less likely than states like Arizona and New Jersey to offer top-level services for adults.

What state is autism most common? ›

The three states with the highest prevalence of autism diagnoses are Rhode Island, Maryland, and Florida, all with rates of over 4%. The majority of states have autism diagnosis rates between 2% and 3.9%. 10 states have an autism diagnosis prevalence of less than 2%.

What percentage of donation goes to Autism Speaks? ›

Very little money donated to Autism Speaks goes toward helping autistic people and families. Only 1% of Autism Speaks' budget goes towards the “Family Service” grants that are the organization's means of funding services. Autism Speaks spends 20x as much—20%—on fundraising.

Why is autism increasing? ›

The prevalence of autism in the United States has risen steadily since researchers first began tracking it in 2000. The rise in the rate has sparked fears of an autism 'epidemic. ' But experts say the bulk of the increase stems from a growing awareness of autism and changes to the condition's diagnostic criteria.

Who is Autism Speaks funded by? ›

Autism Speaks was founded in February 2005 by Bob and Suzanne Wright, grandparents of a child with autism. Recognizing the need for a powerful voice Bernie Marcus donated $25 million to help financially launch the organization.

What is the gold standard for autism? ›

Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy is widely considered to be the gold standard for autism treatment.

Is there a cure coming soon for autism? ›

There is no cure for autism, and many experts agree that a cure isn't the answer. Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a complicated condition that stems from plenty of competing triggers, including genes, the environment, and parental health.

What is the gold standard for treatment of autism? ›

ABA is considered the gold standard for the treatment of children with autism. Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is one of the major specialized treatments DE offers to children with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD). ABA is the application of the principles of behavior to problems of social significance.

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