Resources
Autistic Parenting Handbook:

By Catherine Hallam – Neurodivergent and Autistic Specialist
Parenting an autistic child can be challenging, but you don’t have to navigate it alone. In “The Essential Handbook for Parents of Autistic Children,” Catherine Hallam, an experienced counselor and specialist in autism, provides a compassionate and practical guide. This book covers self-care for parents, effective communication with others about your child’s needs, finding valuable resources, managing meltdowns, distinguishing between manipulation and necessary accommodations, and maintaining routines during school breaks.
With her professional expertise and personal insights, Catherine offers essential tools and encouragement to help you support your child’s unique journey. This handbook is your supportive companion, reminding you that you are not alone and you are doing an incredible job.
FREE National Park Passes:

If you have a fourth-grader at home and are thinking about your next family getaway, this information might be of interest to you!
The Every Kid Outdoors initiative provides fourth-grade students and their families with FREE access to national parks.
The reason for targeting fourth graders is based on research findings that indicate children develop a greater curiosity and understanding of the world around them at age 11. They are not only receptive to new ideas but are also likely to form connections with nature and the history of America.
This pass is renewed annually for fourth graders, meaning eventually, every child will be granted a free pass to explore our national parks. This initiative aims to allow all children to discover wildlife, resources, and history without any cost.
Holiday Activity Book:

Holiday Activity Book for Kids: A Fun and Engaging Way to Celebrate the Holidays
The holiday season is upon us, and it’s a time filled with excitement and joy. However, for families with children on the autism spectrum, it can also be a challenging time. The change in routine, bright lights, loud noises, and large gatherings can be overwhelming for kids. Check out this Holiday Activity Book by clicking below. You can print out the entire book or select specific pages based on your child’s interests and abilities. Use it as a calming activity during the busy holiday preparations, a distraction during potentially overwhelming social events, or a fun way to wind down after a big day.
Remember, every child is unique, and what works for one might not work for another. Feel free to adapt these activities to suit your child’s needs.
Thanksgiving Activity Book:

Thanksgiving Activity Book for Kids: A Fun and Engaging Way to Celebrate the Holidays
The holiday season is upon us, and it’s a time filled with excitement and joy. However, for families with children on the autism spectrum, it can also be a challenging time. The change in routine, bright lights, loud noises, and large gatherings can be overwhelming for kids. Check out this Thanksgiving Activity Book by clicking below. You can print out the entire book or select specific pages based on your child’s interests and abilities. Use it as a calming activity during the busy holiday preparations, a distraction during potentially overwhelming social events, or a fun way to wind down after a big day.
Remember, every child is unique, and what works for one might not work for another. Feel free to adapt these activities to suit your child’s needs.
Youtube and Podcasts:

AutPlay Therapy
YouTube Channel that discusses AutPlay Therapy, an integrated family play therapy framework (guide) for using play therapy to help address the mental health needs of neurodivergent children.
Websites:


Learn From Autistics
Autism resources for parents of individuals on the spectrum (and their children) are listed below. These articles introduce parents to the concept of neurodiversity and autism advocacy and offer tips for helping children grow to understand autism in a positive and healthy manner.


Milestones Autism Resources
Resources for building your children’s sibling relationship, balancing needs of the autistic sibling and neurotypical sibling.

Association for Play Therapy
A Play Therapy resource dedicated to parents and caregivers. It is a place to ask questions, gather information, find resources, and familiarize yourself with Play Therapy as a modality of child therapy.
Books:
Books for Kids with Autism
Books about autism, support for kids with autism and their parents, fiction where character(s) are on the spectrum.