INTRODUCTION: Managing home and health care for children with autism spectrum disorder can be challenging because of the range of symptoms and behaviors exhibited. METHOD: This article presents an overview of the emerging science related to the methods to foster family self-management of common concerns regarding activities of daily living and behaviors, as well as for the health care provider in primary and acute health care settings. RESULTS: Recommendations are provided to enhance the overall delivery of services, including understanding and managing a child's challenging behaviors, and supporting family management of common activities of daily living and behaviors. DISCUSSION: Health care providers' knowledge of evidence-based recommendations for providing care, supporting family self-management of common concerns, and referral heighten the likelihood of better outcomes for children with autism spectrum disorder.
INTRODUCTION: Managing home and health care for children with autism spectrum disorder can be challenging because of the range of symptoms and behaviors exhibited. METHOD: This article presents an overview of the emerging science related to the methods to foster family self-management of common concerns regarding activities of daily living and behaviors, as well as for the health care provider in primary and acute health care settings. RESULTS: Recommendations are provided to enhance the overall delivery of services, including understanding and managing a child's challenging behaviors, and supporting family management of common activities of daily living and behaviors. DISCUSSION: Health care providers' knowledge of evidence-based recommendations for providing care, supporting family self-management of common concerns, and referral heighten the likelihood of better outcomes for children with autism spectrum disorder.