Books
A is for Autism : a Child’s View
Amy Stukey
Gotcha Apps, 2016
Presents, from a child’s perspective, the typical traits that many people with autism share.
Call#: PZ 7 .St96 2016
A Parents’ ABC of the Autism Spectrum
Stephen Heydt
Jessica Kingsley Publishers, 2017
This book provides an alphabetical categorization of the possible issues a child with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) may encounter.
Call#: WM 203.5 .H514 2017
Autism
Lisa D. Benaron
Greenwood Press, 2009
This book covers the historical and current understanding of autism spectrum disorders. The author also refers to the importance of screening and early intervention as well as areas of research.
Call#: WM 203.5 .B465 2008
Autism Spectrum Disorders in Infants and Toddlers: Diagnosis, Assessment, and Treatment
Katarzyna Chawarska, et al.
Guilford Press, 2008
This book contains information on research issues and approaches to assessing social, cognitive, adaptive, communication, and sensory-motor impairments in the first two years of life. The book also addresses ways to support families in coping with an early ASD diagnosis and in making informed decisions on the use of controversial treatments.
Call#: WM 203.5 .A939cha 2008
Autism Spectrum Disorders: From Theory to Practice
Laura Hall
Pearson Merrill, 2009
Hall discusses the causes and characteristics of ASDs as well as best practices for increasing academic achievement for students with autism. The text includes the use of practices mandated by IDEA 2004 and NCLB.
Call#: WM 203.5 .H177a 2009
Autism spectrum disorder : what every parent needs to know
Alan Rosenblatt and Paul Carbone
American Academy of Pediatrics, 2019
This book helps parents understand how ASDs are defined and diagnosed and offers an overview of the most current behavioral and developmental therapies.
Call#: WM 203.5 .R7237 2019
Autistic logistics : a parent’s guide to tackling bedtime, toilet training, meltdowns, hitting, and other everyday challenges
Kate Wilde
Jessica Kingsley, 2022
This book provides step-by-step advice on toilet training, behavior, feeding, and more for children with autism.
Call#: WM 203.5 .W644 2022
Could It Be Autism?: A Parent’s Guide to the First Signs and Next Steps
Nancy Wiseman and Kim Painter Koffsky
Broadway Books, 2006
The authors include information to help parents recognize the warning signs of developmental delays and begin treatment as early as possible.
Call#: WM 203.5 .W814 2006
Do lemons have feathers? : more to autism than meets the eye
David Burns
Jessica Kingsley Publishers, 2016
Drawing on his own lived experience of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), the author provides guidance on how to take advantage of the supposed disadvantage. Filled with often hilarious anecdotes, spanning the confusion of his early diagnosis, to his marriage and life with his four children, he proffers his advice on how to cope with everything from school work to flirting.
Call#: WM 203.5 .B872 2016
Educating Children with Autism
Catherine Lord and James McGee (Eds.)
National Academy Press, 2001
This 300-page online book includes information related to early intervention, preschool, and school programs designed for children with autism from birth to age 8. Issues examined relate to the education of children with autism: early intervention, diagnosis and classification, inclusion, assistive technology, and the rights of children with autism under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act.
The Encyclopedia of Autism Spectrum Disorders
Carol Turkington and Ruth Anan
Facts On File, 2007
The authors provide a reference guide to this condition. Entries include the different types of autism, treatments, social impact, possible causes, and more.
Call#: WM 203.5 .T939e 2007
Engaging Autism: Using the Floortime Approach to Help Children Relate, Communicate, and Think
Stanley Greenspan and Serena Wieder
Da Capo Lifelong Books, 2006
The authors describe the Floortime approach and show how to enter a child’s world and bring her or him into a shared world of relating, communicating, and thinking.
Call#: WM 203.5 .G815en 2006
Good Autism Practice for Teachers Embracing Neurodiversity and Supporting Inclusion
Karen Watson
Critical Publishing, 2022
This is an accessible guide for all trainees and teachers, providing practical, evidence-informed ways to support neurodivergent learners that will also benefit all pupils.
Available only as an eBook
In a Different Key: The Story of Autism
John Donvan and Caren Zucker
Crown Publishers, 2016
This is the story of the discovery of autism, and the first child diagnosed with the disorder, as well as a history of the last eighty years of progress in understanding what autism is.
Call#: WM 203.5 .D7199 2016
Let’s Talk: Navigating Communication Services and Supports for Your Young Child with Autism
Paul Rhea
Brookes Publishing, 2016
The book aids parents in understanding the basics of ASD, the roles of various professionals who address communication problems, as well as the treatment delivery systems and critical target skills (e.g., motor imitation, joint attention, play, spontaneous communication) for improving communication for children with ASD.
Call#: WM 203.5 .P2811 2016
Navigating Autism: 9 Mindsets for Helping Kids on the Spectrum
Debra Moore, Temple Grandin
W.W. Norton & Company, 2021
This book present nine strength-based mindsets necessary to successfully work with young people on the autism spectrum.
Only available as an eBook
Sincerely, Your Autistic Child
Autistic Women and Nonbinary Network
Beacon Press, 2021
Part memoir, part guide, and part love letter, this book is an indispensable collection that invites parents and allies into the unique and often unheard experiences of autistic children and teens.
Only available as an eBook.
Teaching Young Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder
Clarissa Willis
Gryphon House, 2006
This guide details the major characteristics associated with autism. It suggests how teachers and parents can connect with children in meaningful ways to encourage those with autism to learn and grow.
Call#: LC 4717 .W735 2006
Treatment of Autism Spectrum Disorder
Patricia Prelock, et al.
Brookes Publishing, 2021
This text gives professionals the foundation they need to evaluate and compare today’s widely used interventions and determine which ones will promote the best outcomes. It combines the expertise of more than 30 top autism authorities across multiple disciplines and specialties. Readers will get a thorough introduction to 14-evidence-based interventions.
Only available as an eBook
Uniquely human : a different way of seeing autism
Barry Prizant & Tom Fields-Meyer
Simon & Schuster, 2015
This book tackles new language such as shifting from “person-first language” to “identity-first language” diversity of identity in the autism sphere, and the future of autistic advocacy by amplifying the voices of autistic and neurodivergent individuals.
Also available as an eBook
Videos
ABC: Autism, Behavior and Communication: Using Visual Strategies to Support Young Children
30 min; DVD (Apples Video Magazine #161)
Western Illinois University, 2008
This presentation suggests practical approaches to help families and educators support children who have behavior or self-management challenges. You can watch this video online at the Apples Video Magazine YouTube Channel.
Call#: LC 4717 .A134 2008
Autism : Insight from Inside
Temple Grandin
Films Media Group, 2018
Temple Grandin, Jonathan Chase, and Steven Shore explore how Autism affects their lives, the benefits and drawbacks to being diagnosed, and how society can help those afflicted lead more fulfilling and productive lives.
Call#: WM 203.5 .In725 2018
Different Shades Of Autism: The Screening And Diagnosis Of Autism Spectrum Disorders
60 min; DVD
Veronica Bird Charitable Foundation; 2000
This is a documentary about the screening and diagnosis of autistic spectrum disorders. It provides useful information for the early recognition and possible treatments of autism and related disorders
Call#: WM 203.5 .D569 2000
Early intervention for autism : assessment & treatment strategies for birth to 5
5.75 hours; 3 DVDs
PESI, 2016
This lecture discusses assessment tools to identify the early and subtle signs of autism and offers treatment techniques that effectively interrupt and replace the development of many “coping behaviors” exhibited by children with autism (ages 0-5).
Call#: WM 203.5 .Ea761 2015
Infant Development and Behavior in Autism: Insights from “Baby Sibs” Studies
60 min; DVD
Child Development Media, 2006
This DVD describes behavioral markers and developmental trajectories observed early in life in infants who have subsequently been diagnosed with ASD. Video clips illustrate these.
Call#: WM 203.5 .I61a 2006 Vol. 9
Making Our Way: Autism
55 min; online
Maine Public Broadcasting Network, 2011.
Daily life for a child with autism is a challenge for the child and the family.
MeMoves
DVD
Thinking Moves, LLC, c2009.
This program is for all ages and abilities. A multimedia program that transforms the mind and body through interactive “body puzzles,” this system was designed to activate the parasympathetic nervous system, providing participants with tool for self regulation in only a few minutes. A surprisingly simple, yet powerful combination of music, movements. The movements in MeMoves are designed to integrate the brain and body by creating new connections and strengthening those that already exist. Organized into three categories; Joy, Focus and Calm, users select one of 13 video sequences and follow along (imitate) the actions on the screen.
Call#: WE 103 .M46 2009
More Than Words: Promoting the Communication Development of Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder and Other Social Communication Challenges
5 hours; DVD
Hanen Centre, 2008
This DVD may be used by both parents and professionals to support preschool children with social and communication challenges, such as autism spectrum disorder. The DVD includes the research-based strategies parents can use in everyday activities to foster their children’s communication skills.
Call#: WM 203.5 .S964dvd 2008
Self-regulation in children : keeping the body, mind and emotions on task in children with autism, ADHD or sensory disorders.
6.5 hours; 3 DVDs
PESI, 2015
This seminar recording looks at the underlying factors of poor self-regulation and how they affect the child. Practical interventions are emphasized.
Call#: WS 340 .Se551 2015
Siblings of Autism
30 min; DVD
Listen 2 Kids Productions, LLC, 2013
Siblings of kids who have autism have unique perspectives on Autistic Spectrum Disorder. These wise siblings ages four to eighteen tell us about their frustration, their pain, and their growth to acceptance and their exceptional loyalty to their siblings.
Call#: HQ 773.8 .S53sib 2013
Straight Talk About Autism with Parents & Kids
80 min; DVD
Program Development Associates, 2008
This DVD features interviews with children with autism and their parents. Issues discussed include the difficulty of getting an accurate diagnosis, parental acceptance of the diagnosis, communication, and beginning school.
Call#: WM 203.5 .S894 2008
The Early Learner at Home: Intervening with a Beginning Learner with Autistic Spectrum Disorder
66 min; DVD
Autism Teaching Tools, 2007
This video shows parents and professionals several behaviorally based interventions including verbal behavior, pivotal response, natural environment teaching, and the picture exchange communication system (PECS).
Call#: WM 203.5 .E12dvd 2002
Visual Supports & Other Strategies for Young Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders
30 minutes; DVD (APPLES Video Magazine; no. 156).
Western Illinois University, 2007
This program addresses the use of schedules, mini-schedules, calendars, transition tools, choice boards, social stories, and picture cues to enhance communication and structure the learning environment to improve a child’s independence, participation, and interaction with others. You can watch this video online at the Apples Video Magazine YouTube Channel.
Call#: WM 203.5 .V834h 2007
- Sensory Processing: The Basics (Spanish)
- What is SPD? (Spanish)
- Picky Eaters: Tips and Strategies
- Sleep and ASD
- Autism 101
Organizations
The Autism Program
The Autism Program at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, an affiliate of The Autism Program of Illinois, provides a resource & referral center, library, learning aids, and more.
Autism Speaks
Autism Speaks is both an advocacy and support organization. Its Web site includes a definition of autism along with family resources, science news, and local chapters. Also in Spanish.
First Signs, Inc.
First Signs, Inc., is an organization formed to educate both parents and professionals about autism. The Web site includes research reports and resources related to the early warning signs of autism and related disorders.
Operation Autism
Operation Autism is a Web-based resource specifically designed and created to support military families that have children with autism.
Organization for Autism Research Resources ‐ several free resources about safety, research, transition, assessment, etc. for families on this site.
Articles
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Articles on Autism
This collection of timely articles is divided into different categories including, key findings, feature articles and easy reading. Additionally, it has a list of recommended articles listed by year of publication.
After the Diagnosis: Ten Things Parents Need to Do When Facing Autism Spectrum Disorders
The author of this article suggests 10 helpful steps for parents when a child is diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder.
Child and Adolescent Mental Health, 14(1), 31–36
Mothers’ Recollections of Early Features of Autism Spectrum Disorders
Roy McConkey, et al. (2009)
Early intervention may be delayed for autism spectrum disorders because children have not received a formal diagnosis. Parents often notice the features of ASD from an early age. Speech and communication difficulties and behavior problems were the most often reported. This study was designed to document how parents described the features that caused them to be concerned.
Topics in Early Childhood Special Education, 25(4), 195–207
The Usage and Perceived Outcomes of Early Intervention and Early Childhood Programs for Young Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder
Kara Hume, et al. (2005)
The authors studied families of children with autism spectrum disorders who were using early intervention and early childhood services to examine the perceived effectiveness of the services and service delivery methods. Parents reported that parent training was most effective in contributing to their child’s development.
Web Resources
100 Day Kit
The Autism Speaks kit was created for families to use following their child’s diagnosis of autism. It can be downloaded for free. Also available in Spanish.
Autism Speaks Young Child (0-3)
This page includes links to articles, tool kits, worksheets and other resources for caregivers of young children with autism.
A Parent’s Guide to Evidence-Based Practice and Autism
This free online manual from the National Autism Center is written to assist parents in making decisions about how to help their children with autism spectrum disorders reach their full potential.
Autism Focused Intervention Resources and Modules (AFIRM)
AFIRM Modules are designed to help you learn the step-by-step process of planning for, using, and monitoring an evidence-based practice (EBP) with learners with ASD from birth to 22 years of age. Each module includes key components of an EBP including the various approaches that can be used with learners with ASD, behaviors, and skills that can be addressed using the practice, a step-by-step process for applying the practice, and specific resources that you can download and customize for your own use. The AFIRM for Toddlers is a set a of modules developed for early interventionists working with toddlers, families, and early care providers.
Autism Source
ASA’s Autism Source is a database of resources in local communities. It includes contact information for ASA chapters and other local supports.
Autism: Be Aware of the Signs
Each child is unique. Infants reach such milestones as waving bye-bye or smiling in response to a smile at different ages. Discuss any concerns with a doctor so the child can be screened. A child who is identified with an autism spectrum disorder (ASD) can begin getting special help. This may limit the symptoms and help the child lead a fuller life. Also available in Spanish, French, and Polish.
Children with Special Needs: Autism Spectrum Disorders
This 2-page PDF created by the Head Start Center for Inclusion offers families and professionals a brief description of Autism and Pervasive Developmental Disorders, some behavioral symptoms that a child with autism could exhibit and some strategies for overcoming challenges that may be associated with autism.
EITP: Autism Resources
The Illinois Early Intervention Training Program (EITP) website offers a variety of national and regional resources related to Autism.
Guide to Individualized Education Programs (IEP)
Developed by Autism Speaks, this interactive, mobile-friendly, video-based resource for families in the autism community is divided into six simple sections filled with videos and tools to guide you in the right direction as you navigate the IEP journey and the school system with your child. Sections include IEP basics, getting an IEP, developing an IEP, changing an IEP, changing an IEP, disputing an IEP, and important things to remember. Also available in Spanish.
Handling Challenging Behaviors in Child Care and at Home: Autism
Illinois Early Learning (IEL) staff prepare and regularly update resource lists related to popular topics (many addressed by guest experts). These Resource Lists contain a wealth of information on early care and education, including Web materials, IEL resources, and listings of relevant articles and books.
HelpGuide – Helping Your Child with Autism Thrive ‐ There are many things you can do to help a child with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) overcome their challenges. These parenting tips, treatments, and services can help.
Information for Educators
This section of the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) Web site has tools and information about autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) for educators. It includes a childcare provider resource kit.
Information for Families
This Web site from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention includes sections related to diagnosis, treatment, parent resources and tips, and links to additional resources. Also in Spanish.
M-CHAT-R/F
The Modified Checklist for Autism in Toddlers, Revised, with Follow-Up™ developed by Diana Robins, PhD, is a tool used to detect Autism Spectrum Disorders in young children.
Resilience in Families with Autism Spectrum Disorder
This blog post from Purdue Global University discusses factors of resilience in families with autism.
Resources for Caregivers
These infographics from Barton Lab provide tips on preventing challenging behavior and using visual cues and prompts with young children.
Sesame Street and Autism
Developed with input from parents, people who serve the autism community, and people with autism, See Amazing in All Children offers families ways to manage common challenges, to simplify everyday activities, and to grow connections and support from family, friends, and community.
Supporting Individuals with Autism through Uncertain Times
This toolkit from the University of North Carolina and the Frank Porter Graham Autism Team provides seven strategies that are designed to meet the unique needs of individuals with autism during the COVID-19 outbreak and other uncertain times. In addition, examples and ready-made resources are included to help caregivers implement these strategies quickly and easily.
Free Digital Books about COVID-19
This collection of 15 digital books from Unite for Literacy has been written to support families with limited English. Books are written in English and Spanish and include narration in 26 languages.
Autism Resources For Parents – The Ultimate Help Guide For Families
This list from Autism Parenting Magazine offers articles and websites on Autism and related topics.