The Autism Spectrum includes five developmental disorders that fall under the Autism umbrella and are defined by challenges in three primary areas: social skills, communication, and behaviors and/or interests. These five disorders that impair a person's abilities to communicate, interact with and relate to others with symptoms ranging from mild to severe. Today, 1 in 150 individuals is diagnosed with autism, making it more common than pediatric cancer, diabetes, and AIDS combined. It occurs in all racial, ethnic, and social groups and is four times more likely to strike boys than girls.

Currently, there are no effective means to prevent autism, no fully effective treatments, and no cure. Research indicates, that early intervention in an appropriate educational setting for at least two years during the preschool years can result in significant improvements for many young children with autism spectrum disorders. As soon as autism is diagnosed, early intervention instruction should begin. Effective programs focus on developing communication, social, and cognitive skills.

The Autism Speaks 100 Day Kit is created specifically for newly diagnosed families, to make the best possible use of the 100 days following the diagnosis of autism. The kit contains information and advice collected from trusted and respected experts on autism and from parents of children with autism spectrum disorders.  The kit is available on line in pdf format for all to view and download please click here. Users also have the ability to personalize their own kit with local resources in their area using the Family Services Resource Guide.