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Information and support for families

Practical guidance to help autistic children and adults flourish, and to make family life a little easier.

For parents Wondering, how to get a medical assessment, or just diagnosed? Start here. How autism is assessed, how to ask for an assessment in your country, and eight first steps for parents.

Support at school, by country

Rules differ in each country. These are starting points. Always check the latest guidance where you live.

United Kingdom

Ask for SEN Support through the school's SENCo. In England, children with greater needs can be assessed for an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP).

United Arab Emirates

Schools are expected to include students of determination. In Dubai, ask the school's inclusion team about an individual education plan, following KHDA inclusion guidance.

Brazil

The Berenice Piana Law (Lei 12.764/2012) recognises autistic people's rights, including inclusive education. The CIPTEA card (Lei 13.977/2020) helps access priority services.

Portugal

Inclusive education law (Decreto-Lei 54/2018) gives every student the right to support measures in mainstream schools. Ask the school's multidisciplinary team.

Support near you, by country

Where to go first, and who can help. Services change, so check each organisation's website for current contact details.

United Kingdom

Start with your GP or health visitor and ask for a referral for an autism assessment.

United States

Talk to your paediatrician. Children under 3 can get free or low-cost Early Intervention services through their state. From age 3, ask your school district for a special education evaluation.

United Arab Emirates

Start with your child's paediatrician, who can refer you for a developmental assessment.

  • Dubai Autism Center: assessment, therapy and family support
  • Emirates Autism Society and the Zayed Higher Organization for People of Determination support families in Abu Dhabi

Brazil

Start at your local health unit (UBS). Since 2025, the SUS screens children aged 16 to 30 months with the M-CHAT questionnaire and refers suspected cases to specialised services. Support can start before a final diagnosis.

Portugal

Start with your family doctor or paediatrician in the SNS. The SNS 24 line (808 24 24 24) gives health advice. At school, ask for the multidisciplinary team (EMAEI), which can agree support measures and an individual education plan (PEI).

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Everyday life Sleep, meltdowns, toileting, eating and safety Practical tips for the everyday, looking after yourself, and when to get urgent help. Therapies Therapies and support at home ABA, speech, OT and parent programmes explained, with the evidence, what's available in your country, and dos and don'ts for home. Free family app The Brick's Foundation app A visual daily schedule, Now and Next board, calm corner and feelings cards for your child, plus a checklist for parents. Free, no account, works offline. Open it on your phone and choose "Add to Home Screen". Your voice matters Share your story Are you autistic, or do you love someone who is? Your experience could help another family.

Helping autistic people flourish

  • Build on their interests. Passions are a doorway to learning, friendship and future work.
  • Make the day predictable with visual schedules and warnings before changes.
  • Respect every form of communication, including speech, signing, pictures and devices.
  • Create a calm space at home where they can recharge.
  • Celebrate strengths and progress, not just challenges.
  • Allow rest. Being in a world built for others is tiring.

Trusted resources

This information is general and does not replace advice from a health or education professional who knows your child.