Many of the books on this list are available to buy from our website. We receive 5% of the sale price from all the books we sell through www.autism.org.uk/amazonshop

Books for siblings

My sister is different: a book for young people who have a sister with autism
Life with a sister who has autism, written and illustrated by ten-year-old Sarah. Available from www.autism.org.uk/pubs

My brother is different: a book for young children who have a brother with autism
Written by a mother of a child with autism, the book explains the behaviour of a child with autism in terms that young children can understand. Available from www.autism.org.uk/pubs

I'm a teenager: get me out of here!
Information about autism for teenage brothers and sisters, plus advice on getting on with all the family and ways of coping when things get difficult. A colourful and lively book. Available from www.autism.org.uk/pubs

Books about autism

Voices from the spectrum: parents, grandparents, siblings, people with ASD and professionals share their wisdom
First-hand accounts of life with autism and Asperger syndrome. Available from www.autism.org.uk/amazonshop

Can I tell you about Asperger syndrome? A guide for family and friends
Adam, a nine-year-old boy with Asperger syndrome, explains his talents and difficulties as if talking to school friends and family. Available from www.autism.org.uk/amazonshop

Freaks, geeks and Asperger syndrome
Luke is 13 and has Asperger syndrome. He is aware of how little information there is for teenagers so, with the help of his brothers and sisters, he has written this honest and witty book. It covers a host of topics including bullying and dating. Available from www.autism.org.uk/amazonshop

Invisible families (PDF)
A booklet outlining the experiences of families from black and minority ethnic communities.

Useful information from our Autism Helpline

  • Visual supports
  • Families: supporting brothers and sisters
  • Behaviour guidelines
  • Parents of children with an ASD: basic guidelines for 
  • DLA supporting statement
  • DLA: keeping a diary
  • DLA: tips for parents and carers
  • Education: various information available.

Telephone our Autism Helpline on 0808 800 4104 to ask for copies.

Resources

Autism alert cards
A mini-information pack for situations when communication may be difficult. Developed by the NAS in consultation with people with autism spectrum disorders and their families. The pack includes a key facts leaflet about autism and a credit-card style insert for emergency contacts. 

Information cards on autism/Asperger syndrome (packs of 50)
Small cards which give a brief explanation of autism or Asperger syndrome and are designed to help families and people with autism when they're out and about. 

Further help

Autism Helpline
Tel: 0808 800 4104 (Mon Fri, 10am 4pm, free from landlines and most mobiles)
Email: autismhelpline@nas.org.uk
Answers questions relating to autism spectrum disorders.

Autism Speaks
Tel: 01491 412 311
Website: www.autismspeaks.org.uk/grandparents_network.htm
Autism Speaks are setting up a grandparents network. 

The Grandparents' Association
Moot House
The Stow
Harlow
Essex CM20 3AG
Tel: 01279 444964
Helpline: 0845 4349585 (Mon-Fri, 10.30am-3pm)
Website: www.grandparents-association.org.uk
Supports grandparents who have lost contact with their grandchildren, are caring for their grandchildren full time, or have childcare responsibilities for their grandchildren.

Grandparents Plus
18 Victoria Park Square
Bethnal Green
London E2 9PF
Tel: 020 8981 8001
Website: www.grandparentsplus.org.uk

Proud Grandparents
A website especially for grandparents.
Website: www.proudgrandparents.co.uk

Charity respite services

The Daisy Chain Project (London only)
Tel: 01253 761 444
Website: www.kensingtonfoundation.com
Can offer respite breaks and grants to families coping with limited means in difficult circumstances.

Crossroads
Tel: 0845 450 0350
Website: www.crossroads.org.uk
Aims to relieve the stress experienced by carers through the provision of respite care in the home.

Kids Out
Tel: 01525 385 232
Website: www.kidsout.org.uk
Can provide respite care, days out, special holidays and play equipment.

Shared Care Network
Tel: 0117 941 5361
Tel: 01383 622 462 (Scotland)
Website: www.sharedcarenetwork.org.uk

Break
Tel: 01263 822 161
Email: office@break-charity.org.uk
Offers respite care and UK holidays for children and adults with challenging behaviour and/or learning difficulties.