Autism Society of America (ASA) Brochures

What is Autism?

This easy-to-read, colorful brochure provides an overview of autism and the Autism Society of America.

To view the pamphlet, click here.

Building Our Future
(For Teachers)

The goal of this 13-page pamphlet is to help educators and school administrators become familiar with the learning styles of students with autism and with the various educational approaches designed to meet their unique needs.

To view the pamphlet, click here.

Growing Up Together
(For School-Aged Peers)

This 4-page, large-type booklet is targeted to school children. It talks about autism and how to become friends with someone who has the disorder.

To view the booklet, click here.

Next Steps: A Guide For Families New To Autism

This 9-page brochure will provide the reader with a general understanding of Autism Spectrum Disorders, an overview of the various treatment options, and brief information about education and services that are helpful to children and adults with autism.

To view the brochure, click here.

Challenging Behaviors Are Frequently the Primary Obstacle In Supporting Students With Asperger's(AS)

While there are few published studies to direct educators towards the most effective behavioral approaches for these students, it appears most evident (given the heterogeneity among these individuals) that effective behavioral support requires highly individualized practices that address the primary areas of difficulty in social understanding and
interactions, pragmatic communication, managing anxiety, preferences for sameness and rules, and ritualistic behaviors. While the specific elements of a positive behavioral support program will vary from student to student, the following 10 steps go a long way in assuring
that schools are working towards achieving the best outcomes on behalf of their students.
CONTRIBUTED BY: Dr. Cathy Pratt, Indiana Resource
Center for Autism and Stephen Buckmann, Monroe County Community School Corporation

To view the brochure, click here.

Puberty and Children on the Autism Spectrum

At a Parent Group Meeting, a mother asked, "Since my daughter's mental age is about a third grade level, why is she starting her period? This doesn't seem possible."
All children go through puberty regardless of IQ or social skills. The brain does not tell the body to stop growing if the boy/girl’s developmental level is younger than their age. Puberty is a stage of development just like moving from being an infant to a toddler. Puberty is considered to begin around age 12 for girls and age 14 for boys. The physical changes of puberty are centered on the development
of secondary characteristics and the onset of menstruation (in girls) and ejaculation (in boys).
CONTRIBUTED BY: Melissa Dubie, M.Ed., Indiana Resource
Center for Autism

To view the brochure, click here.

Siblings Perspectives: Guidelines for Parents

There is little doubt that those of us raised with siblings hae been influenced by that relationship. Living with a brother or sister on the autism spectrum (ASD) adds more significant and unique experiences to that relationship. Throughout
numerous accounts of parents and siblings of children with disabilities it becomes very clear; when a child in the family has a disability, it affects the whole family. Also clear is that families and each member can be both strengthened and stressed from this situation. The degree of these conflicting effects seem to vary from family to family and person to person. Some factors, however, can help strengthen families
and minimize the stressors. This article is meant to arm you with important information and practical suggestions for helping and supporting siblings.
CONTRIBUTED BY: Marci Wheeler, M.S.W., Indiana Resource Center for Autism

To view the brochure, click here.

Establishing Positive Sleep Patterns for Children on the Autism Spectrum

Most parents have had some experience with a child who has difficulty falling asleep, wakes up frequently during the night, and/or only sleeps a few hours each night. Temporary sleep difficulties are an “expected” phase of child development. But ongoing and persistent sleep disturbances can have an adverse effect on the child, parents and other household members. Children on the autism spectrum (ASD) appear to experience these sleep disturbances more frequently and intensely than typically developing children. It is extremely common for children with ASD to have difficulty getting to sleep, sleeping for a few hours at a time, and/or staying asleep without frequently waking throughout the night. These poor sleep habits are easily created and can be extremely difficult to change.
CONTRIBUTED BY: Marci Wheeler, M.S.W., Indiana Resource
Center for Autism

To view the brochure, click here.