To Learn More About Autism...

The following web sites offer family-friendly information about positive approaches to supporting the development of people with autism, as well as ways of keeping them included in their communities. Sites are organized for ease of use, but most cover a wide range of topics that overlap the categories. This list is only a sampling of the many resources available on the web; follow each site's links to learn more.

Developmental, Relationship-Based Approaches to Supporting Children with Autism

Interdisciplinary Council on Developmental and Learning Disorders (ICDL)

Site of "an international federation of clinicians, researchers, and parents dedicated to innovative approaches in the identification, treatment, and education" of children with autism spectrum and other developmental disorders. Up-to-date publications, videos, trainings and conferences. Easy-to-use information for parents.

» http://www.icdl.com/

Zero To Three

Dedicated to promoting children's social, emotional and intellectual development. Discusses universal features of child development as well as special needs. Site endorsed by the American Academy of Pediatrics.

» www.zerotothree.org

Asperger's Express

Developed by a parent, this site introduces visitors to her daughter and the progress she continues to make through developmentally-appropriate supports and interventions "in the hope that our experience might benefit other children like her and their families."

» www.aspergersexpress.com

Dr. Morton Ann Gernsbacher's Lab

Dr. Gernsbacher is both a researcher in cognitive neuroscience and the parent of a son on the autism spectrum. She dedicates her site to the proposition that it is "exceedingly important to distinguish uninformed stereotype from scientific reality, to move beyond myths and misconceptions" about people with autism.

» http://psych.wisc.edu/lang/index.html

Sensory Integration

Children's Disabilities Information - Sensory Integration

This site includes a wide variety of articles, book reviews, and resources dedicated to helping children with sensory integration differences.

» http://www.childrensdisabilities.info/sensory_integration/index.html

Sensory Integration - Family Education

This site examines how children with sensory integration (SI) issues have difficulty processing everyday sensations, and why they may exhibit unusual behaviors such as avoiding or seeking out touch, movement, sounds, and sights. The articles are intended to help parents learn more about SI dysfunction and how to help their child.

» http://school.familyeducation.com/sensory-integration/parenting/36660.html

SPD Network (The Sensory Processing Disorder Network)

Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD) is a complex disorder of the brain that affects developing children. Children with SPD misinterpret everyday sensory information, such as touch, sound, and movement. This site was started in 1996 to help parents, teachers, therapists, doctors, and others learn about and understand Sensory Processing Disorder.

» http://www.sinetwork.org/

Social Skills and "Social Stories"

The Gray Center for Social Learning

The Gray Center for Social Learning and Understanding is a non-profit organization dedicated to individuals on the autism spectrum and those who work with them to improve mutual understanding. The Center works to improve social understanding on both sides of the social equation, helping individuals with ASD to communicate and interact more successfully with the people with whom they live and work.

» http://www.thegraycenter.org/

Asperger Syndrome

Online Asperger Syndrome Information and Support (OASIS)

A web site developed by parents: "Although recently reminded that there is no oasis or paradise for those with Asperger Syndrome, we sincerely hope that they, along with parents and professionals, will find a bit of shade and support via the information presented and links available at this site."

» http://www.udel.edu/bkirby/Asperger/

Tony Attwood, Asperger Syndrome Researcher

This website is a guide for parents, professionals and people with Asperger Syndrome and their partners. It covers issues related to Asperger Syndrome, resources, papers Dr. Attwood has authored, and related topics.

» http://www.tonyattwood.com.au/

MAAP Services for Autism and Asperger Syndrome

MAAP is a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing information and advice to families of "more advanced individuals with Autism, Asperger syndrome, and Pervasive Developmental Disorder (PDD)."

» http://www.maapservices.org/

School and Community Inclusion

Kids Together

A Pennsylvania-based website designed to serve as a resource to support and improve the quality of life for people with disabilities. As volunteers submit useful information that has helped them, their families, or others, it is added to the database. Includes a nationwide listserv dedicated solely to creating inclusion in schools and communities, and the opportunity to sign up for an email newsletter.

» http://www.kidstogether.org/

National Coalition for Parent Involvement in Education

Dedicated to the proposition that when schools and families work together students do better in school and in life, parents become empowered, teacher morale improves, schools get better, and communities grow stronger.

» http://www.ncpie.org/

The Whole Schooling Consortium

This international network of schools, teachers, parents, administrators, university faculty and community members works to promote excellence and equity in schools throughout the world in order to build inclusive and democratic societies.

» http://www.wholeschooling.net/

Circle of Inclusion

The Circle of Inclusion web site was developed for early childhood service providers and families of young children. This site offers demonstrations of and information about the effective practices of inclusive educational programs for children from birth through age eight. Info available in Spanish.

» http://www.circleofinclusion.org/

Inclusion.com: Inclusion Press, Inclusion Centre

Inclusion.com creates and shares tools, resources, and capacities so all can live full lives. Inclusion.com is for citizens, educators, families, individuals, and organizations.

» http://www/inclusion/com/

Positive Behavioral Supports: Coping with Challenging Behaviors

The Beach Center

Since its founding at the University of Kansas in 1988, the center has conducted research, carried out training and technical assistance, and provided international, national, state, regional, and local service. It works in collaboration with families who have members with disabilities, individuals with disabilities, the professionals and policy leaders who serve families and individuals, and members of the communities in which the families and individuals live, all in order to enhance the quality of life of families and individuals affected by disability.

» http://www.beachcenter.org/

The Journal of Positive Behavioral Interventions

Scholarly journal dedicated to the belief that all interventions can and should be positive, respectful. Preview articles.

» http://pbi.sagepub.com/

Autism Research and Training Center of the University of California at Santa Barbara

The Autism Research and Training Center Develops positive behavioral supports specifically for individuals with autism and disseminates research results and information through this site.

» http://www.education.ucsb.edu/Autism/

The Rehabilitation Research and Training Center on Positive Behavioral Support

Funded by the National Institute on Disability and Rehabilitation Research, U.S. Department of Education.

» http://rrtcpbs.fmhi.usf.edu

Center on Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports

Federally-funded to address the behavioral interventions and supports needed for successful learning and social development of students, the Center provides capacity-building information and technical support to assist states and districts in the design of effective schools.

» http://www.pbis.org/main.htm

Supports and Strategies for Inclusive Classrooms

Kathie Nunley's Layered Curriculum

Based on current brain-imaging information, Layered Curriculum is considered an effective student-centered teaching method. The three-layer model of differentiated instruction encourages complex thinking and holds students accountable for their learning.

» http://www.help4teachers.com/

Inclusive Learning Environments for Children with Special Needs

A web site designed by Washington State's Department of Special Education, containing practical ideas and strategies.

» http://www.newhorizons.org/spneeds/inclusion/front_inclusion.htm

National Center on Accessing the General Curriculum (NCAC)

An excellent guide and "how-to" with up-to-date bibliography and additional web sites.

» http://www.cast.org/system/galleries/download/ncac/CurriculumModifications.pdf

Center for Applied Special Technology (CAST)

Founded in 1984 as the Center for Applied Special Technology, CAST has earned international recognition for its development of innovative, technology-based educational resources and strategies based on the principles of Universal Design for Learning (UDL). CAST staff includes specialists in education research and policy, neuropsychology, clinical/school psychology, technology, engineering, curriculum development, K-12 professional development, and more.

» http://www.cast.org/publications/ncac/ncac_diffinstruc.html

The National Resource Center for Paraprofessionals

This organization's mission is to address the needs of the paraprofessional field, providing technical assistance and sharing information about policy questions, management practices, regulatory procedures, and training models.

» http://www.nrcpara.org/

Education Law

Education Law Center of Pennsylvania (ELC-PA)

ELC is a non-profit legal advocacy and educational organization dedicated to ensuring that all Pennsylvania's children have access to a quality public education.

» http://www.elc-pa.org/

Wrightslaw

Parents, educators, advocates, and attorneys use Wrightslaw for information about special education law, education law, and advocacy for children with disabilities. The Advocacy Libraries and Law Libraries on the site hold thousands of articles, cases, and resources.

» http://www.wrightslaw.com/

Council of Parent Attorneys and Advocates (COPAA)

COPAA is an independent, nonprofit, tax-exempt organization of attorneys, advocates and parents. Its primary mission is to secure high quality educational services for children with disabilities.

» http://www.copaa.org/

Disability Law

Pennsylvania Health Law Project (PHLP)

PHLP offers information on health insurance issues and Medical Assistance, and advocates for consumer-directed health services for people with disabilities.

» www.phlp.org

Public Interest Law Center of Philadelphia (PILCOP)

The Public Interest Law Center of Philadelphia is dedicated to advancing the Constitutional promise of equal citizenship to all persons irrespective of race, ethnicity, national origin, disability, gender or poverty. PILCOP uses public education, education of clients and client organizations, research, negotiation and, when necessary, the courts to achieve systemic reforms.

» http://www.pilcop.org/

Disability Rights Network of Pennsylvania (DRN-PA)

The Disability Rights Network of Pennsylvania (DRN) is a statewide, non-profit corporation designated as the federally-mandated organization to advance and protect the civil rights of children and adults with disabilities. DRN works to ensure their rights to live in their communities with the services they need, to receive a full and inclusive education, to live free of discrimination, abuse and neglect, and to have control and self-determination over their services.

» http://drnpa.org/

Information on Disabilities and Advocacy

Autism One Radio

Online radio programming and show archives devoted to the autism spectrum in all its nuances, with up-to-the-minute information, interviews, and commentary.

» http://www.autismone.org/radio/

First Signs

First Signs is dedicated to the early identification of and intervention for children with developmental delays and challenges. The organization aims to educate parents, healthcare providers, early childhood educators, and other professionals in order to ensure the best developmental outcome for every child.

» http://www.firstsigns.org/

The Institute on Disabilities at Temple University

The Institute on Disabilities at Temple University is funded by the Administration on Developmental Disabilities, Department of Health and Human Services, to educate, train, and help create systems change.

» http://www.temple.edu/instituteondisabilities/

Partners in Policymaking

This training series was created by the Minnesota Council on Developmental Disabilities in 1987, and in PA is run by Temple's Institute on Disabilities. Partners is an innovative, competency based leadership training program for adults with disabilities and parents of young children with developmental disabilities.

» http://www.partnersinpolicymaking.com/classroom.html

Bridges4Kids

This non-profit organization, founded by Michigan parents, provides a comprehensive system of information for parents of children from birth through transition to adult life. It includes many useful articles, links, and national news updates.

» http://www.bridges4kids.org/

The Family Village

The Family Village is a global community that integrates information, resources, and communication opportunities on the Internet for persons with cognitive and other disabilities, their families, and those who provide them services and support. It includes resources on specific diagnoses, communication connections, adaptive products and technology, adaptive recreational activities, education, worship, health, and disability-related media and literature.

» http://www.familyvillage.wisc.edu/

The PACER Center

Since 1977, the mission of the PACER Center has been to expand opportunities and enhance the quality of life of children and young adults with disabilities and their families, based on the strategy of parents helping parents. The site offers helpful publications and information.

» http://www.pacer.org/

NICHCY

NICHCY stands for the National Dissemination Center for Children with Disabilities. It serves as a central source of information on disabilities in infants, toddlers, children, and youth; IDEA, which is the law authorizing special education; No Child Left Behind (as it relates to children with disabilities); and research-based information on effective educational practices. Site offers information in Spanish.

» http://www.nichcy.org/

Institute on Disability, University of New Hampshire

The Institute on Disability at the University of New Hampshire was established in 1987 to provide a coherent university-based focus for the improvement of knowledge, policies, and practices related to the lives of persons with disabilities and their families. The Institute is known for its family-friendly publications.

» http://iod.unh.edu/

Neurodiversity

This site offers an extensive collection of news, opinions, readings and announcements aimed at expanding the dialogue about and appreciation of human diversity.

» http://www.neurodiversity.com/main.html

Self-Advocates Speak Out

Aspies For Freedom

This site's purpose is to serve as a communication hub and collection of resources for the Asperger community. It offers forums "where people may communicate on subjects relating to autism, offline groups, autism rights, legitimate therapies for comorbid conditions, diagnosis, employment and education and AS special interests."

» http://www.aspiesforfreedom.com/

GRASP

The Global and Regional Asperger's Syndrome Partnership is widely-acknowledged as a premiere self-advocacy site that promotes regional satellite organizations.

» http://www.grasp.org/

Speaking for Ourselves

Speaking for Ourselves is an independent grassroots advocacy organization run by and for people with disabilities in Pennsylvania.

» http://www.speaking.org/

William Stillman

Web site of William Stillman, autism spectrum author, consultant and presenter, with articles, blog, links, and information about self-advocacy in Pennsylvania.

» http://www.williamstillman.com/

Wrong Planet

This self-advocacy site, primarily for people with Asperger's syndrome, provides information, message boards and discussion forums.

» http://www.wrongplanet.net/

PASAC

Our mission is to advise and educate state and local government, law enforcement, educators and the medical community concerning spectrum conditions and community integration.

» http://www.udservices.org/PASAC.asp#

Social Justice and Human Rights

TASH

TASH is an international membership association leading the way to inclusive communities through research, education, and advocacy. TASH members are people with disabilities, family members, fellow citizens, advocates, and professionals working together so that all people, no matter their perceived level of disability, are included in all aspects of society.

» http://www.tash.org/index.html

Axis Consultation and Training

In 1990, Norman and Emma Kunc established Axis Consultation and Training to provide in-service and training in the areas of inclusive education, employment equity, conflict resolution, and other disability rights issues. The site includes publications and videos about social justice in the lives of people with disabilities.

» http://www.normemma.com/

The Center on Human Policy

The Center on Human Policy (CHP) is a Syracuse University based policy, research, and advocacy organization involved in the national movement to insure the rights of people with disabilities. Since its founding, the Center has been involved in the study and promotion of inclusive community opportunities for people with disabilities.

» http://thechp.syr.edu//

Center for Self-Determination

The Center for Self-Determination is a highly interactive working collaboration of individuals and organizations committed to the principles of self-determination to help all persons create the lives they want, connected to and with their communities.

» http://www.self-determination.com

Autism Advocacy Organizations: National

The Autism National Committee (AUTCOM)

AUTCOM is the only autism advocacy organization dedicated to "Social Justice for All Citizens with Autism" through a shared vision and a commitment to positive approaches. The organization was founded in 1990 to protect and advance the human rights and civil rights of all persons with autism and related differences of communication and behavior.

» http://www.autcom.org/

Autism Society of America (ASA)

ASA is the oldest voice of the autism community in education, advocacy, services, research and support: "The ASA is committed to meaningful participation and self-determination in all aspects of life for individuals on the autism spectrum and their families."

» http://www.autism-society.org/site/PageServer

Autism Advocacy Organizations: Pennsylvania

Autism Living and Working, Inc. (ALAW)

ALAW promotes homes, jobs, and full participation in the community for adults with autism. This goal is currently being achieved for participants in the Autism Pilot Program, which offers a model for the development of a statewide autism services system for adults. ALAW is working to establish this service model in state law, and to secure ongoing funding.

» http://www.autismlivingworking.org

Autism Link

Autism Link's mission is to keep parents, family members of individuals with autism spectrum disorders, and individuals with autism apprised of news and information, help them in their quest for services, and also in their quest for camaraderie with others in the autism community.

» http://www.autismlink.com/

Autism Society of America, Pennsylvania Chapters
ASA, Greater Harrisburg Chapter

ASA, Greater Philadelphia Chapter

Pocono Autism Society

Northwestern Pennsylvania Autism Society of America (NWPA-ASA)

ASA, Lehigh Valley Chapter

Autism Society of Pittsburgh

Autism Society of Berks County

Autism Society of America

Advisory Board on Autism and Related Disorders (ABOARD)

ABOARD's mission is to "Increase availability, capability, and delivery velocity of autism diagnostic, care intervention, and education support services." Headquartered in western PA.

» http://www.aboard.org/

Sharing and Caring of Bucks County

A non-profit organization and support group for families of individuals on the autism spectrum: autism, PDD-NOS, Asperger's, mental retardation, and related neurological disabilities.

» http://www.sharingcaringbuckscounty.org/

Autism Support and Advocacy in Pennsylvania, the State Affiliate of the Autism National Committee

Founded in 1987, ASAP works to secure school and community inclusion.

» http://www.autcom.org

Asperger Syndrome information alliance for Southeastern Pennsylvania (ASCEND)

Listserv, speakers, and information on Asperger Syndrome.

» http://www.ascendgroup.org/

ASD HOPE

This parent group serves as a source for information about programs and services available in south central Pennsylvania.

» http://www.asdhope.org/

Supporting Autism and Families Everywhere (S.A.F.E.)

S.A.F.E. is a non-profit group of parents and relatives of children, adolescents and adults with autism in the Wilkes-Barre area. The group seeks out and shares information, discusses difficulties and issues, and exchanges ideas with the goal of helping people with autism live full and independent lives.

» http://www.autismsafe.org/default.aspx

Parent Support and Mentoring: Cross Disability

Autism-PDD Message Boards

A very active site with multiple forums for parents to connect with one another and swap stories, ideas and strategies for raising children on the autism spectrum.

» http://www.autism-pdd.net/forum/default.asp

Parent-To-Parent of Pennsylvania

Parent-to-Parent of Pennsylvania matches parents and family members of children and adults with disabilities or special needs to supporting parents, on a one-to-one basis, according to condition or concerns.

» http://www.parenttoparent.org/

Parent-To-Parent USA

A national parent-connection organization that operates on principles similar to the Pennsylvania site.

» http://www.p2pusa.org/

Community Parent Resource Center

This organization creates partnerships, mentoring, and support in rural Northwestern PA.

» http://www.mentorparent.org/

Parent Education & Advocacy Leadership Center (PEAL)

PEAL serves Western and Central Pennsylvania by providing training and information for parents and friends of children with disabilities, educators, health care and community service providers, and advocates.

» http://www.pealcenter.org/

Parent Education Network (PEN)

PEN serves Central and Eastern Pennsylvania to "promote mutual respect between parents and professionals for the knowledge, skills, and abilities each contributes to develop appropriate educational and service delivery outcomes for the child and adult with disabilities."

» http://www.parentednet.org/

Related Disability Organizations in Pennsylvania

Learning Disabilities Association of Pennsylvania

As a statewide, nonprofit organization, LDAPA is dedicated to serving Pennsylvania residents by providing support and up-to-date information regarding learning disabilities. LDAPA is a state affiliate of Learning Disabilities Association of America.

» http://www.ldapa.org/

Parents Involved Network of Pennsylvania (PIN)

PIN assists parents or caregivers of children and adolescents with emotional and behavioral challenges. PIN provides information, helps parents find services, and will advocate on their behalf with any of the public systems that serve children.

» http://www.pinofpa.org/

National Alliance on Mental Illness of Pennsylvania (NAMI-PA)

NAMI provides education, advocacy and support for individuals with mental health needs and their families.

» http://namipa.nami.org/

Children and Adults with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (CHADD)

CHADD offers information, support, and events in various locales. This national website helps visitors find their local group.

» http://www.chadd.org

Attention Deficit Disorder Association (ADDA)

The ADDA offers information, advocacy and support groups.

» http://www.add.org/help/pa.html

Mental Health-Related Sources

Child and Adolescent Bipolar Foundation

BPKids gives advice, research, and guidance for families of children and teens struggling with bipolar disorder.

» http://www.bpkids.org/site/PageServer

Bipolar Child

The thorough and informative Web site of Demitri Papolos M.D. and Janice Papolos, authors of the book The Bipolar Child.

» http://www.bipolarchild.com/