Randolph, Mass. – When a child or adult is diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), every member of the family is affected. While each experience is unique, there are common challenges that most individuals and their relatives face throughout their journeys. These include dealing with the diagnosis, choosing the best treatment options, and building a strong and supportive network.

Being armed with up-to-date, accurate information about ASD can help families feel more comfortable as they face these challenges. But how do they know where to begin and how to make good choices at each step along the way? An Internet search for ASD can result in hundreds of thousands of hits from a variety of sources that often provide conflicting information.

“That’s why May Institute goes beyond providing evidence-based services,” shares Lauren C. Solotar, Ph.D., ABPP, President and CEO of May Institute. “We and our National Autism Center are also committed to raising awareness about autism and disseminating scientific information that people can use to make well-informed choices with and for their loved ones on the spectrum. One in 68 children has been diagnosed with ASD, a lifelong condition. It has never been more important for families to learn all they can. Knowledge is power.”

Drawing from the vast range of expertise provided by dozens of its clinical experts, May Institute offers the following 30 articles about autism and related special needs from its library of resources, written in accessible and practical language. These articles provide important information on a range of topics including diagnosis, early intervention, effective treatment, and everyday living strategies for individuals and families living with ASD.

A CLOSER LOOK AT AUTISM: 30 DAYS, 30 TOPICS

1. Get the Facts About ASD
2. How Is ASD Diagnosed?
3. Managing the Stress that Accompanies a Diagnosis
4. Early Intervention
5. Evidence-based Practices
6. What Is Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA)?
7. Functions of Behaviors
8. What Does that Mean? (1 & 2)
9. When a Family Member Is Diagnosed
10. Communication Tools for Children with ASD
11. Limited, Supervised Screen Time Can Be Beneficial
12. Reducing Self-stimulatory Behavior
13. Behavioral Traps and How to Avoid Them
14. What Are Token Economies?
15. Maintaining Skills in Summer
16. Fun and Safe Summer Outings
17. Out-of-District Placement
18. Back to School with ASD
19. Halloween Tips
20. Plan Ahead for More Relaxing Holidays
21. Coming of Age with Developmental Disability
22. Turning 22 and Autism
23. Helping Individuals with Special Needs Develop Friendships
24. Navigating the First Romantic Relationship
25. Managing Sensory Overload
26. How to Help People with Special Needs Benefit from and Enjoy Community Outings
27. Anxiety Disorders in People with Intellectual Disabilities
28. Vacationing with an Adult with Intellectual Disabilities
29. Finding the Balance Between Providing Support and Promoting Independence
30. Celebrating the Special Qualities of Individuals with ASD