Autism Spectrum Disorder in Children: A Comprehensive Guide for Families

The moment you first heard the words "it may be autism spectrum disorder" about your child, you probably felt relief and a new kind of worry at the same time: on one hand, the relief of finally having an explanation for your child's differences; on the other, the weight of questions like "What happens now?", "Will he be able to talk?", "Will she be able to go to school?", "Will he be able to live independently?" All of these questions are natural, and all of them deserve answers. This book was written precisely to bring together the answers to these questions patiently, in plain language, and grounded in science.

Autism spectrum disorder is one of the most common neurodevelopmental differences of childhood; today it is identified to some degree in about one in every thirty children. Yet despite how common it is, it remains one of the most misunderstood, most misinterpreted, and unfortunately at times most stigmatized subjects. And yet today we have early diagnostic methods, evidence-based intervention programs, and promising new approaches that help each child reach their own potential. Knowledge is the antidote to uncertainty and fear on this journey.

As I wrote this guide, I tried to achieve two things at once: to be scientifically accurate and up to date, and at the same time to use language that a mother or father with no background in medicine or education can easily understand. Here and there I have used medical and developmental terms, because being able to speak the same language as your doctor, your therapist, and your teacher is valuable for becoming a true partner in your child's care and education. But I have explained every term the first time it appears, and I have added a comprehensive glossary at the end of the book.

There is an approach you will encounter often throughout this book that I want to share from the very start: autism spectrum disorder is not "a disorder to be fixed," but a neurodevelopmental difference in the way a child perceives, processes, and communicates with the world. While this difference calls for meaningful support in some areas, in others it can be the source of your child's strengths, special interests, and unique perspective. Our goal is not to "normalize" your child, but to help them reach their own potential, at their own pace, and in a way that is meaningful to them.