Starting Points: ARI Website

A year ago this month we received the "diagnosis" of autism for our boy. The neurologist confirmed our suspicions, as we had obseved something just not "normal" in the boy's actions and interactions. More on that later, perhaps. That day was both a relief - finally, a term wwe could deal with to describe his condition - and yet, it was a weight upon us, as well. What in the world did we know about autism? Precious little. And the Dr. indicated that much of what we'd find about autism online could not be trusted and should probably, in fact, be discounted altogether.

Some in the medical/psychiatric community prefer to say autism is a label - not a diagnosis. The difference is semantic, although there is some good reason to know why the preference. Autism is really a descriptive term applied to various behavorial traits in a person. Is is not concrete, with a specific set of determining factors.

In any event, what to do when you learn your child has autism?

Hmm, there are many steps to consider taking, and much of your task as a parent is to learn, learn, learn. Education is vital. And there ARE some trusted sources and resources to start with.

Of the many such places to look, we found a good initial place to begin your educational journey was Autism Research Institute.