EP 103. Story Time: Our Journey With Autism

Hey Mamas! April is Autism Awareness/ Acceptance Month!! I wanted to share our family's story with Autism, and shed some light on the disorder itself. Check out the resources below for more information about Autism Spectrum Disorder and where you can get support.

🧩 Early Intervention & Child Support Resources1. Development & Early Signs

• CDC “Learn the Signs. Act Early.” Program
  → Developmental milestone checklists and early warning signs

• CDC Information for Families (Education & Services)
  → Guidance on accessing services and supports
• U.S. Department of Education Special Education Resources (via NICHD)
  → IEPs, rights, and school-based services

• Autism Care Network Parent Strategies (Behavior, Sleep, Visual Supports)
  → Practical, research-based tools parents can use at home

📌 Early intervention improves communication, behavior, and independence outcomes.

2. Education & School Support3. Evidence-Based Strategies for Kids

Autism Facts & Statistics

• Learn about Autism Spectrum Disorder (CDC)
  → Overview of autism, signs, screening, and treatment
• CDC Data & Statistics on Autism
  → Includes prevalence rates (e.g., ~1 in 31 children in the U.S.) and research data
• CDC Autism Materials & Free Resources
  → Printable fact sheets, reports, and educational materials for families

📌 These CDC resources are widely trusted and emphasize early identification and support.

• Autism Speaks – Main Resource Hub
  → Guides for newly diagnosed families, toolkits, and community resources
• Autism Speaks Help & Information Page
  → Search by age, support needs, and services
• NICHD Autism Resource List (NIH)
  → Government-backed list of trusted autism resources

📌 These sites offer toolkits, local service directories, and parent guidance.