Help, tips and trusted places.
For autistic people, and for the parents, caregivers and teachers who support them.
Show a card
When talking is hard, tap a card. It fills the screen so you can show it to someone. For a card about you, make an All About Me card.
For kids and teens
- Your brain works in its own way. That's not wrong.
- It's okay to need breaks, headphones or quiet time.
- Stimming, like rocking or flapping, is okay. It can help you feel calm.
- You can ask for what you need. The cards above can help.
- Find a trusted adult you can go to when things feel hard.
For adults
- At work or school, you can ask for accommodations, like a quieter desk, written instructions or flexible breaks.
- Plan recovery time after busy or social days.
- Write down what helps you, so you can share it with others.
- Connecting with other autistic people can help you feel less alone.
For parents and caregivers
- Use visual schedules and give warnings before changes.
- A meltdown is not bad behavior. It's overload. Lower noise and talking, and keep everyone safe.
- Learn your child's calming tools and keep them handy.
- Listen to autistic adults. They share a lot about what helped them growing up.
- Take care of yourself too. Support groups can help.
For teachers
- Give instructions one step at a time, and in writing when you can.
- Offer a quiet space and let students use it without asking every time.
- Warn students before fire drills, schedule changes or loud events.
- Allow fidgets, headphones and movement breaks.
- Build on what the student loves. Special interests are a strength.
Trusted organizations
- Autistic Self Advocacy Network (ASAN)
Run by and for autistic people. Guides on rights, self-advocacy and more. - Autism Society of America
Information, local groups and a support line for families and autistic people. - AANE
Support, groups and coaching for autistic teens, adults and families. - Job Accommodation Network (JAN)
Free advice on workplace accommodations. - CDC: Autism
Basic facts and information about screening and diagnosis.
If you need help right now
If you or someone else is in danger, call 911.
In the US, you can call or text 988 to reach the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline any time, day or night. You can also chat at 988lifeline.org.