Parents and Caregivers
Raising a loved one with autism presents some unique challenges for those entrusted with their care. ASERT is here to support, inform, and empower parents and caregivers of individuals on the spectrum.
Check out some of our top resources highlighted below, or search through the hundreds of resources available for parents and caregivers!
Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) Resource Collection
This collection of resources provides information on Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) including: an introduction to ABA, how you can tell if your child is receiving ABA services, what to consider when choosing a provider, information on insurance coverage for ABA services and more.
View ResourceBe Safe Resource Collection
This is a collection of resources from various sources on the topic of safety for individuals with autism. This resource provides information on how to prevent harm and intervention techniques for when safety is compromised.
View ResourceMedicaid Waivers for Individuals with Autism
This page is about Office of Developmental Programs (ODP) Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) Waivers in Pennsylvania. HCBS Waivers are a type of Medicaid program that provides long-term services and supports to groups of people who need support to live in their communities.
View ResourceList of IEP Accommodations and Specially Designed Instructions
This information sheet from ASERT provides information on common Specially Designed Instruction (SDI) and accommodations that can be included in a student's Individualized Education Program (IEP).
View ResourceSearch within Parents and Caregivers resources
Variety Children’s Charity Grants
These grants are meant to provide resources individuals who have disabilities or who are disadvantaged (or both) to empower them live, laugh, and learn.
Read moreVisual Schedule Series: First-Then Schedules
This resource from Autism Classroom provides strategies and resources around using first-then schedules with individuals who have autism.
Read moreWhat Autism in Toddlers Looks Like
The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), Centers for Disease Control, National Institutes of Health, autism advocacy groups, and researchers have all drawn attention to the importance of the early detection of autism spectrum disorders (ASD) to make access to early intervention possible. Learn how to identify the early signs of autism in the below video, created by Kennedy Krieger in partnership with the Maryland Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics.
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What is Autism Spectrum Disorder?
This site from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) gives a range information about autism from definitions, to diagnostic strategies, treatments, and risk factors.
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What Parents and Caregivers Can Ask and Do to Help Children Thrive at School
This tool from the US Department of Education provides parents and caregivers with a set of questions to ask and important issues to consider when approaching their child’s teachers, principals, and counselors about his or her development.
Read moreWhat to Consider When Looking for a Qualified ABA Provider
This website, from the Indiana Resource Center for Autism at Indiana University, provides information and resources for parents on what to look for when choosing a qualified Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) provider.
Read moreWhat to do if your SSI benefits were cut off when you turned 18
When you turn 18, the Social Security Administration (SSA) reviews your case to see if you still meet the requirements to receive SSI. The rules change when you turn 18, and some people lose their benefits.
Read moreWhat to Expect in an Autism Evaluation
This resource, developed by ASERT, provides information for parents and caregivers on what to expect when their child has an autism evaluation.
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Writing Effective Individualized Education Programs (IEP)
This resource explains the importance of measurable annual goals for a student with disabilities and how to create one that aligns with Pennsylvania standards.
Read moreYour Special Education Rights
Empowering parents with the knowledge and understanding they need to advocate for their child’s education through engaging video programs.
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