This is the essential reference for parents and carers of children with autism. Written by two leading experts in the field, it covers everything from the causes of autism to how it manifests at the various ages and stages of a child's life, as well as diet and nutrition, the importance of self - care for parents, how to cope with common problematic behaviours, conditions that can often appear in conjunction with autism (such as anxiety and depression), and how best to manage the child's transition to adulthood. The authors' warm, supportive voice reassures parents throughout, sorting fact from myth as they provide all the key information in a clear, easily understood format.