If you have a child with Asperger’s syndrome disorder — or think you might — you may have learned that pinpointing the issue isn’t always an easy thing. The process can also be confusing for parents since the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders replaced Asperger’s disorder with the umbrella diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder in 2013. Finding answers can be even trickier for girls, since the signs and symptoms are harder to identify in females.
But for parents of children with Asperger’s, there is information and help out there to ease the stress and worry. Here’s a list of Asperger’s support groups for parents, websites and autism organizations to explore to find some answers.
Support in southeast Michigan
Autism Alliance of Michigan
Works to improve the life of individuals with autism spectrum disorders and their families through different community programs and resources. Families can also be referred to other autism providers though the Autism Alliance of Michigan.
Autism Home Support Services
Offers insurance coverage verification, pre-care assessment, a care plan and additional support to children and their families.
Jack’s Place for Autism Foundation
This Southfield organization provides families supportive, educational and referral services. Founded by former Detroit Tigers catcher Jimmie Price and wife, Lisa, after their son was diagnosed.
Online support and information
Asperger/Autism Network
The Asperger/Autism Network provides families with information, education, online peer support, and advocacy to build meaningful and connected lives in the community.
Asperger Support Group
Join one of the Asperger support groups to share experience and insights, to form alliances with other parents, and to explore creative new ways of raising your kids that have Asperger syndrome. There are multiple support groups along with virtual meeting options that you can explore to connect with the other members of the community.
Asperger’s Syndrome Foundation
Browse this United Kingdom site, where much of the leading research about Asperger’s is gathered.
AutismSpeaks.org
This advocacy and information site for those affected by ASDs offers details about walk events, outreach, grants, tools and a trove of additional support and information for parents.
Autism Society
Explore the latest news about autism and ASD research, plug into the autism community and much more at the home of the highly recognizable Autism Awareness Puzzle Ribbon.
CARD Support Groups
The Center for Autism and Related Disabilities is based in North Central Florida but holds support groups all over the United States. CARD provides a series of resources, services and therapy programs to learn more about how to cope with Asperbergers in your family.
GRASP
The Global and Regional Autism Spectrum Partnership has communal advocacy and outreach programs, peer supports, education, information, and referral services that can help families.
Hoagies’ Gifted Education Page
A comprehensive list of books showcasing information and tools for parents and those affected by ASD.
MOCHAA: Mothers of Children with Autism and Asbergers
Mochaa offers support to families with children that have special needs through online and in-person support groups, resources, and family assistance for IEPs.
My ASD Child Forum
My ASD Child provides “education and support for parents of children and teens on the autism spectrum.” You can find a compilation of educational videos and podcasts for parents, teachers and others that will facilitate a deeper understanding of children and teens with Asperger Syndrome.
National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke
NINDS’ information page is filled with ASD information and organizations, including email and phone contact details.
ThAutcast: Autism and Aspergers Community
This Facebook community brings together people from near and far who have one thing in common: an interest in learning more about autism disorders. Specifically, you will find news, and entertainment from multiple individuals that post to help others.
This post is updated regularly.
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