Don’t be overwhelmed.  Pick an autism topic and take it one step at a time.  It is daunting but no one will ever be as much an expert on your loved one than you are (except maybe your loved one)!   There are literally hundreds of books about autism and you are not going to be able to read them all.  Get referals from  other parents or teachers about what books they have found helpful.  (We have a growing list of recommended resources on our site) And be sure and save your funds by borrowing books and buying only those that you know you will need to reference over and over again!

Did you know?

The Autism Spectrum Disorders Network houses an amazing collection of books, DVDs and other autism materials.  These are available for educational professionals AND parents to checkout for FREE.   This is a great way to browse through material before you spend the money to buy!  Some titles just might become your parenting handbook while others won’t live up to the hype.  This is a GREAT way to make sure you spend your money on the books that are really going to help!

Follow the links below for your particular region and then browse through their selections.  You can find contact information for the representative in each region at their link.

Metro ASD Region Lending Library  ( ESU 3 )

Southeast ASD Region Lending Library ( ESU 4,5,6 & 18 )

Northeast ASD Region Lending Library ( ESU 1,7 & 8 )

Central ASD Region Lending Library ( ESU 9, 10, 14 & 16 excluding Cherry County )

Western ASD Region Lending Library (ESU 13, 14 & 16 )  

Another option before buying a book is to check with your local library. Some libraries even take suggestions for books to purchase. This is a great way to advocate for your own needs!

Also some of the support groups across the state have organized their own lending libraries.  For example, other parents are a great resource for books dealing with dietary or biomedical issues.  You will find that many of these books will not be carried by the ASD Network as their focus is on educational materials.

(For previous tips please visit our Autism News section where everything is archived!)