# Autism support for parents, one step at a time

Understand the signs, find your next step, and make everyday life a little easier. Plain-language autism guides and free printable communication tools, for your child and your family.

## Autism guides and free parent tools
- [What is autism?](https://autismparentguide.org/autism)
- [Signs of autism](https://autismparentguide.org/signs)
- [Communication](https://autismparentguide.org/communication)
- [Daily life](https://autismparentguide.org/daily-life)
- [Diagnosis](https://autismparentguide.org/diagnosis)
- [School & support](https://autismparentguide.org/school)
- [Parent FAQs](https://autismparentguide.org/faqs)
- [Toolkit home](https://autismparentguide.org/toolkit)
- [Card builder](https://autismparentguide.org/toolkit/cards)
- [Visual schedules](https://autismparentguide.org/toolkit/schedule)
- [Communication book](https://autismparentguide.org/toolkit/book)
- [Symbol library](https://autismparentguide.org/toolkit/symbols)
- [Templates](https://autismparentguide.org/toolkit/templates)
- [Meltdown helper](https://autismparentguide.org/toolkit/meltdown-helper)
- [Signs notes](https://autismparentguide.org/toolkit/signs-notes)
- [About my child](https://autismparentguide.org/toolkit/about-me)
- [Feelings 1–5](https://autismparentguide.org/toolkit/feelings)
- [Sensory profile](https://autismparentguide.org/toolkit/sensory)
- [School meeting notes](https://autismparentguide.org/toolkit/school-meeting)
- [Going-out plan](https://autismparentguide.org/toolkit/outing)
- [Print at home](https://autismparentguide.org/toolkit/print)

## Common questions
### Where should I start if I think my child is autistic?

Write down what you notice about communication, play, routines and sensory needs, including examples from nursery or school. Speak with your child's doctor or health visitor about your concerns and an assessment. You do not have to be certain before asking. Our [signs of autism guide](/signs) and [first steps](/diagnosis/first-steps) can help you prepare.

### Can I support my child while we wait for an autism assessment?

Yes. You can try a predictable routine, reduce uncomfortable noise or light, and offer pictures alongside speech. Follow your child's preferences and ask nursery, school or your healthcare team what support is available now. Formal eligibility varies by location. See [support while waiting for an assessment](/diagnosis/waiting-list).

### What is AAC, and can it help an autistic child?

Augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) includes gestures, signs, picture boards and devices that speak. It can support speech or offer another way to communicate. There is no minimum age or skill that a child must reach before AAC can be considered. A speech and language therapist can help choose an accessible system. Read our [AAC guide for parents](/communication/aac).

### Are the printable communication cards and visual schedules free?

Yes. The [communication card builder](/toolkit/cards), [visual schedule maker](/toolkit/schedule) and printable templates are free, with no account or subscription. Use your own photos or our symbols, edit the labels and download a PDF. Photos you add are processed in your browser.

### Does this website provide a diagnosis or medical advice?

No. Autism Parent Guide provides general educational information and practical tools. The guides link to their sources; they are not a clinical assessment or an individual treatment plan. Speak to a qualified professional about your child's needs. Our [editorial policy](/editorial-policy) explains how we handle sources and review information.

Source: https://autismparentguide.org · Content updated 2026-09-09