Information on Autism Spectrum Disorder for Families

For Everyone

At a glance

  • Information on autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and what CDC is doing to better understand it.
  • Developmental milestone tools for families.
Father and mother hugging their child

What to know

Physiotherapist pediatrician doctor doing exercises with her patient
About Autism Spectrum Disorder
Find out what CDC is doing to better understand ASD to support people with ASD and their families.

Developmental milestone tools for families

PDF preview image of LTSAE's "Milestones Matter!" materials.
Discover tools to help you track your child's milestones.

Free "Learn the Signs. Act Early." Materials

CDC's "Learn the Signs. Act Early." program provides free resources and materials for families including information on developmental milestones by age (2 months to 5 years), developmental screening, and a growth chart.

Concerned about your child's development? — Act Early!

If you think your child might have an ASD or you think there could be a problem with the way your child plays, learns, speaks, or acts, contact your child's doctor as soon as possible, and share your concerns. Don't wait. Acting early can make a real difference!

Links and resources for families

Dad playing peek-a-boo with baby.
CDC's Developmental Milestones
Developmental milestones are things most children can do by a certain age.
Mother taking care of the child at home
Screening for Autism Spectrum Disorder
Screening and diagnosis of ASD.
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Treatment and Intervention for Autism Spectrum Dis…
Treatment and intervention information for people with autism spectrum disorder (ASD).
Man with a disability smiling
Living with Autism Spectrum Disorder
Information for individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and the people who care for them.
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Positive Parenting Tips
Learn more about child development, positive parenting, safety, and health for each life stage.
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Content Source
National Center on Birth Defects and Developmental Disabilities
About This Page
Published: May 15, 2024
Updated: May 16, 2024

This page was last updated on this date. Updates may include minor edits, image changes, or other modifications to page content.

Reviewed: October 2, 2026

The information on this page was last reviewed by subject matter experts to ensure accuracy.