Autism Spectrum Disorder

Young boy playing with a model of the solar system

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a complex neurological and developmental disorder that affects about 1 in 59 children in the U.S. Children "on the spectrum" (which includes Asperger's) have challenges with social interaction, language, and communication; many children also exhibit repetitive behaviors and a fascination with specific topics. Every child with ASD has different skills, challenges, and needs.

In this section, you'll find information on how to help children with ASD succeed in the K-3 classroom, books for children that feature characters on the spectrum, links to PBS autism awareness programming and resources, and much more. See also: Inclusive Classrooms and Social and Emotional Learning.

Featured partner: First Words Project and Autism Navigator

Featured Video: Autism Spectrum Disorder

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Our PBS Series:
Launching Young Readers

Henry Winkler

Learn how brain scientists are working to solve the puzzle of why some children struggle to read and others don't.

Additional Resources We Recommend

American Federation of Teachers
First Words Project, Florida State University
National Center for Leadership in Intensive Intervention, U.S. Department of Education
Florida State University, First Words Project
Florida State University
Texas Autism Resource Guide for Effective Teaching (TARGET)
Autism Speaks and Sesame Workshop
Geek Club Books
"You may have tangible wealth untold. Caskets of jewels and coffers of gold. Richer than I you can never be — I had a mother who read to me." — Strickland Gillilan