Sites and Resources
Autism Focused Intervention Resources & Modules (AFIRM)
Audience
Educators, therapists, families, and university students
Description
AFIRM provides free online learning modules that teach evidence-based practices for autistic learners. Each module includes instructional videos, implementation checklists, examples, and downloadable resources.
Advantages
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Free
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Research-based
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Easy to navigate
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Excellent implementation guides
Limitations
Requires time to complete the training modules.
National Clearinghouse on Autism Evidence and Practice (NCAEP)
Audience
Educators, researchers, service providers
Description
NCAEP reviews research literature and identifies evidence-based practices supported by scientific evidence. It helps professionals select interventions that have demonstrated effectiveness.
Advantages
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Highly credible
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Frequently referenced by schools
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Supports evidence-based decision making
Limitations
Some reports are written in technical language.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Autism Information
Audience
Families, educators, healthcare providers
Description
The CDC provides reliable information about autism characteristics, early signs, developmental milestones, screening recommendations, and family resources.
Advantages
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Trusted public health source
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Easy-to-understand language
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Frequently updated
Limitations
Provides general information rather than individualized educational guidance.
Autism Speaks
Audience
Families and autistic individuals
Description
Autism Speaks offers toolkits, educational materials, transition planning resources, and family support information throughout the lifespan.
Advantages
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Large collection of practical resources
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Helpful family guides
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Transition resources
Limitations
Some autistic self-advocates have expressed concerns about aspects of the organization's historical messaging, so educators should supplement it with additional neurodiversity-informed resources.
SPARK for Autism
Audience
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Autistic individuals
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Families and caregivers
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Educators
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Healthcare professionals
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Researchers
Description
SPARK (Simons Foundation Powering Autism Research for Knowledge) is one of the largest autism research initiatives in the United States. The website provides evidence-based information about autism, research updates, educational articles, and opportunities for autistic individuals and their families to participate in research. SPARK also connects families with current studies, helping researchers better understand autism while providing access to reliable, science-based resources.
Advantages
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Provides trustworthy, research-based information about autism.
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Offers opportunities to participate in autism research and contribute to future discoveries.
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Includes articles on diagnosis, genetics, interventions, adulthood, and family support.
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Information is written in language that is easy for families to understand.
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Free to access and regularly updated with current research findings.
Limitations
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Some resources focus primarily on research participation rather than practical intervention strategies.
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Certain information may be more relevant to families interested in contributing to research than those seeking immediate educational supports.
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Some articles contain scientific terminology that may require additional explanation for readers unfamiliar with research.
Organization for Autism Research (OAR)
Audience
Families, educators, professionals
Description
OAR develops practical guides, educational resources, employment supports, transition planning materials, and evidence-informed publications for autistic individuals.
Advantages
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Practical classroom resources
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Strong transition supports
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Free downloadable guides
Limitations
Some resources focus more on school-age students than preschool learners.
