Here are some of the key points from the article:
1. Be there. Make yourself available.
2. Discuss autism.
3. Learn about the individual with autism.
4. The worry about prognosis.
5. Share new information when it is appropriate.
6. Have play dates with friends.
7. Have play dates with neighbors.
8. Offer a helping hand. Babysit or help out in any way that you can.
9. Avoid judging the family with a child or teenager with autism.
10. Protect their confidentiality.
In your lifetime, you will probably know more people and families affected by autism. You can choose to be part of the solution by helping support a friend, family member, or neighbor. Take the time to learn not just about autism, but the individual child. Make the decision to accept children with disabilities and teach your children how they can help children with autism by being a friend too.