Resources for Families

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects many areas of functioning. It is defined by difficulties with social communication and interaction skills, and the presence of restricted, repetitive patterns of behavior or interest. Learn more about this condition.

Danya International developed and evaluated a number of educational presentations for individuals with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) and the caregivers, professionals and advocates who work with them. View these online resources.

The Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute, an organization in Washington, D.C., that funds studies that can help patients and their caregivers make better-informed healthcare choices, presents a series of videos for parents of children with ASD. View these flyers to access the videos: 

• The Talk - Black, Autistic and Male: One Family's Experience. In this five-minute video, parents share their advice on talking to their autistic son about how he can safely interact with the world.
• Executive Function Basics for Parents. If you have a child with executive function challenges such as getting stuck or overwhelmed, or trouble with following directions, watch these videos for simple strategies that parents can use immediately.

Learn more about this overnight camp designed for children with high functioning autism.

The Division of Psychology and Behavioral Health and the Center for Autism Spectrum Disorders are presenting a webinar series for caregivers featuring experts from Children’s National Hospital. Learn more about the Caregiver Webinar Series and register today.

Our monthly electronic newsletter provides a list of events, opportunities and helpful tips for families and service providers of children with ASD. Read our monthly e-newsletter.

The Family Resources Notebook is designed to be a resource for parents as they navigate the journey of raising a child with disabilities. Learn about the Family Resources Notebook.

Learn more information about autism from our list of helpful websites.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) “Learn the Signs. Act Early” Program aims to improve early identification of children with autism and other developmental disabilities so children and families can get the services and support they need. Learn more about the program.

Take a look at our compiled reading list of helpful books for children with autism and their parents.

Our stakeholder advisory board is comprised of parents of children or young adults who have received services through the Center for Autism Spectrum Disorders clinical program or participated in our research projects.

The visual supports and resources offered by the Autism Behavioral Consult team at Children's National Hospital help medical staff and parents to make procedures and treatments easier for children with communication, sensory or behavioral special needs. View our resources.