Useful websites for parents or caregivers of those with autism

According to the latest statistics, 1 in 88 children are on the autistic spectrum, including 1 in 54 boys. It’s a disorder that’s still not entirely understood, and even within the community of parents of children with autism and educators who work with them, there are still disagreements about what therapies and treatments work best.
For parents, finding ways to help with everything from diagnosis to coping is vital. Here’s a list of 15 great resources, provided by The Friendship Circle of West Bloomfield Township, that parents of children with autism should be aware of if they need guidance. Click on the column headline, which is a URL, to go to the website.

1. Autism Support Groups

It is very important for families dealing with autism to have an outlet, such as other parents who are going through the same thing. This site connects them to groups both online and in their area that can offer that type of support.

2. AutismNOW

AutismNOW should be the first place you look for the latest news, research and information on autism.

3. MyAutismTeam

MyAutismTeam is a social network for parents of kids with autism.

4. Care.com

Care.com is a great place to find a caregiver.

5. Dads 4 Special Kids

This is a group for fathers of special-needs children, who can share their stories with others who understand the challenges they’re facing.

6. Autism…Learn

This site allows people, including children, with autism to complete online activities geared toward helping them develop vital skills.

7. Autism on the Seas

Parents of special-needs children know how difficult it can be to plan a vacation. This site is dedicated to helping parents of children with autism map out their getaways, whether they’re cruises or camping trips.

8. Atypical Child

Atypical Child functions sort of like a Craigslist for parents of special needs children. You can list and buy gently used therapy equipment.

9. Bloom and Grow

Being a caregiver can be a rewarding, but also often a difficult and humbling task. This site shares products, strategies and tips for how to help your loved one and cope with the great demands that are put upon you each day.

10. Healing Thresholds

This site offers daily updates on autism news and research, including new therapies being used to address the disorder.

11. Make Friends With Autism

This group is dedicated to fostering more understanding of autism spectrum disorders and encouraging families to reach out to others with ASD.

12. Parent Coaching for Autism

Parents of both newly diagnosed children with autism and those who were diagnosed years ago can benefit from this site, sharing ideas for therapies, coping mechanisms and medical benefits through e-courses and newsletters.

13. Autism Blogs Directory

This site offers a comprehensive list of blogs that are written by and for families dealing with autism. It’s easy to get lost in reading their stories when you’re supposed to be working, so be careful!

14. Autism in Action

AiA specializes in offering how-to teaching programs that can help your child with virtually any task, from basic self-care to better communication.

15. Autism Calendar

This is a terrific resource that lists upcoming autism-related events in your local community. You can even add your own event to the calendar.
Jerry Wolffe is the advocate at large/writer in residence at the Macomb-Oakland Regional Center. He can be reached at (586) 263-8950.