The Early Start Denver Model ( ESDM ) has been helpful at giving toddlers with autism a head start. However, when parents were the ones administering the program, it was less effective.

Parents often report that their kids with autism will wander off and into dangerous situations, but little research has looked at this behavior.

Kids with autism may feel frustrated in social situations. That frustration can lead to self-injury, like head banging.  Researchers want to know who is at risk for self-injury.

Autism can be treated with medications to help with some symptoms. Lots of studies have been done for children, but not much is known about how medications will help teens with autism.

Autism is a lifelong developmental disorder that can affect a person in many areas, including his or her mental health.

Some medications can be used to treat multiple conditions, especially in mental health. But drugs are also sometimes prescribed for conditions they aren't approved to treat.

Kids with autism can have symptoms, like being irritable, that interfere with their school day. In one study, a morning yoga session in class helped with some behaviors.

Bullying can take many forms and can make school hard for kids. Teens with autism may be at greater risk of being bullied than other children.

Researchers are learning more about the genes that influence autism. A new study suggests that fathers may be passing along gene changes that increase risk of autism.

As many as one in every 88 children has an autism spectrum disorder ( ASD ). Research to understand ASD and find new treatments is costly. Nine research groups now have funding.