Resources
Useful Websites
Autism Speaks
Autism Speaks is a global advocacy organization providing resources and support for individuals with autism and their families. Their website offers a variety of useful materials, including virtual interactive autism activities and personalized teaching story templates, to support learning, engagement, and communication development.
Language: English
Malaysian Autism Resource Foundation (MARF)
The Malaysian Autism Resource Foundation (MARF) provides locally relevant resources and support for individuals with autism and their families in Malaysia. Their website offers information on interventions, education, and lifelong support tailored to the Malaysian context.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
A trusted U.S. government site offering comprehensive, evidence-based information on autism spectrum disorder. Includes signs, screening tools, developmental milestones, and guidelines for families and professionals.
Hong Kong Department of Health
Language: English and Chinese
Provides a clear introduction to autism from a public health perspective, covering symptoms, diagnosis, and available interventions. While some content is specific to the Hong Kong context, much of the information is broadly applicable and useful for parents and educators everywhere.
Free Online Learning Platforms
Language: English
*An account is required to access the course; instructions for registration can be found in the relevant section of the MARF website
World Health Organization (WHO) Caregiver Skills Training Online Program
Language: English
A free, video-based programme that teaches ESDM-based strategies to support young children with developmental delays or social-communication challenges. An account is required to access the course, and the registration steps are similar to those for the WHO eCST programme.
Help Is In Your Hands (HIIYH) Online Course
Hong Kong Department of Health "Parent Empowerment" Training Programme
Language: English
A free parent-training programme designed for families who suspect their child may have developmental or behavioural needs. Through booklets and video modules, it aims to help parents understand child development and learn practical skills to support their child’s growth in daily life
PC-CARE Learning Center
Language: English
A free, evidence-based online platform offering parenting and caregiver training to support children’s behaviour, emotional regulation, and caregiver–child relationships. Its modules help caregivers learn effective strategies to manage challenging behaviours, foster positive interaction, and support healthy development. Enrollment is free and accessible online.
ADEPT – Autism Distance Education Parent Training
Language: English
A free, self-paced online programme that teaches parents practical, ABA-based strategies to support the learning and behaviour of children with autism or developmental needs. The course includes video lessons and simple, everyday techniques that families can use at home.
Malaysian Facebook Support Groups
Language: English
A Facebook group for Malaysian parents of children with autism or special needs. Members actively share parenting tips, therapy experiences, emotional support, and information on events and services.
Malaysia Autism Parents Support Group & Special Needs
Language: Chinese
A Mandarin-speaking support group for parents and caregivers of children with autism, ADHD, and learning disabilities. Members exchange resources, intervention ideas, and personal experiences.
特殊兒童教育分享 – 自閉、過動、學習障礙
南馬特別孩子關懷協會
Language: Chinese
A Johor-based nonprofit association that supports parents of children with special needs. They regularly organize community events, information sharing sessions, and peer support activities.
Language: Mostly English
A supportive Facebook community for mothers in Perak. Members frequently share resources, personal experiences, and recommendations related to parenting and children's needs, including special education.