Your doctor may be able to answer many of your questions about autism. But you may need to turn to other professionals too.

Here are some questions that you may want to ask.

• How do you know that my child has autism? Can you be sure?
• How do you know it's not something else?
• How will my child develop?
• Will my child be sent to a specialist or a department with lots of experience in caring for children with autism?
• Is there any treatment that will help my child? Can I get it where I live?
• Can this treatment be harmful for my child?
• Will my insurance or special programs pay for this treatment?
• Are there other treatments that I would have to pay or pay extra for?
• What sort of help can I get with caring for my child at home?
• Are there programs to help me pay for child care, treatment or equipment?
• Are there any local support groups for families who have children with autism?
• How can I help my other children to understand about autism? And how can I help them cope with having brother or sister with autism?

This information is for educational use only, and is not a substitute for prompt professional medical advice. Readers should always consult a physician or other professional for advice and treatment. ©BMJ Publishing Group Limited 2008. All rights reserved.