Supporting Young Children with Autism

Practical Tips for Parents and Early Childhood Teachers

Caring for and teaching young children is one of the most rewarding jobs in the world—but it can also come with challenges, especially when a child has unique needs. If you’re a parent or early childhood teacher supporting a young autistic child, you might sometimes feel unsure of the best ways to help them thrive.

This resource was created to give you clear, practical strategies that are easy to understand and simple to use in everyday life. It’s not about complicated theory—it’s about real tips you can put into practice at home, in kindergarten, or in any early learning environment.

• Inside, you’ll find guidance on:
• Creating calm and supportive routines
• Understanding and supporting communication
• Making playtime a tool for connection and learning
• Handling big feelings with gentle, effective strategies
• Building strong partnerships between parents and teachers

Every strategy is designed with young children in mind, making it easier for you to create an environment where they feel safe, understood, and ready to grow. And the best part? Many of these approaches benefit all children, not just those on the autism spectrum.

The book (over 130 Pages)comes in PDF, Word, and Google Doc formats, so you can read it on any device, adapt the templates for your own use, and share ideas with colleagues or family members. If you prefer a paperback, you can get copies for your staff or yourself through Amazon Books.

The last section contains many examples and templates to guide you. These templates are also available to be copied from our Google Drive for people that purchase the paperback book option on Amazon.

Whether you’re just starting to explore autism support, or you’re looking for fresh ideas to strengthen what you’re already doing, this resource is here to give you confidence, clarity, and encouragement.

Contents:

• Introduction
  • Why early support matters
  • Building understanding, patience, and confidence
    
• Understanding Autism in Young Children
  • Early signs and traits to notice
  • Strengths and challenges
  • Common myths vs. reality
    
• Creating a Calm and Supportive Environment
  • Simple adjustments at home and in kindergarten
  • Managing sensory needs (noise, lights, textures, routines)
  • Building safe spaces and predictable routines
    
• Communication and Connection
  • Encouraging speech, gestures, and alternative communication
  • Using visuals, pictures, and routines to support understanding
  • Listening to your child’s unique ways of communicating
    
• Play and Social Interaction
  • Helping children join in play with others
  • Supporting sharing, turn-taking, and parallel play
  • Using play as a tool for learning and connection
    
• Everyday Routines and Independence
  • Making transitions smoother (home to school, one activity to another)
  • Supporting self-care (eating, toileting, dressing)
  • Encouraging independence step by step
    
• Handling Big Feelings and Behaviour
  • Understanding meltdowns vs. tantrums
  • Calming strategies that work for young children
  • Gentle ways to teach emotional regulation
    
• Working Together
  • Building strong parent–teacher partnerships
  • Communicating with families about progress and challenges
  • Sharing strategies between home and school
    
• Celebrating Strengths and Progress
  • Focusing on what your child can do
  • Encouraging confidence and self-esteem
  • Small wins that make a big difference
    
• Resources and Templates
  • Visual schedule samples
  • Calm-down corner ideas
  • Communication cards
  • Home–school communication template
  • Behaviour tracking sheet
  • Progress Monitoring Chart
  • Templates for Goal Setting
  • Daily Routine Checklist Template
  • Sample Visual Supports for Routines
  • Sample Communication Cards

Download yours now…