Autism Parent Navigators

Autism Parent Navigators (APN) is a peer mentoring adaptation of the Family Foundations (FF) parenting education program designed for couples with a young child recently diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). In APN, Parent Navigators, who also have a child diagnosed with ASD, serve as mentors for the couple. APN aims to help couples develop a team approach to caregiving, become strong advocates for the child, improve consistency in the home, and lower the severity of ASD symptoms. In APN, couples are defined as any two individuals who plan to care for the child together and can include the parent and another individual such as a grandparent or new romantic partner. Couples participate in APN together and typically begin APN classes following their child’s ASD diagnosis. 

Parent Navigators deliver APN to couples in their home over six classes. Class 1 focuses on introducing the program, providing education about ASD, and a discussion of the couple’s experience of their child’s ASD diagnosis. Class 2 focuses on tools for understanding the child’s needs through their behavior, tracking behavior patterns, and understanding the connection between parent and child feelings. Class 3 instructs couples on changing negative thoughts, recognizing the strengths of the parenting team, and building a positive relationship with the child. Class 4 explains effective communication strategies, tools for managing difficult situations, the importance of mutual support within the parenting team, and how consistency can affect the child’s behavior. Class 5 focuses on strategies for determining whether a problem can be solved, practicing problem solving, and reflecting on the couples’ progress through the class series. Class 6 ends the series by explaining the importance of teamwork, setting goals to continue advocacy and navigation skills, and reflecting on strategies learned and services obtained for the child. 

APN does not currently meet criteria to receive a rating because no studies met eligibility criteria for review.

Date Research Evidence Last Reviewed: Nov 2023

Sources

The following sources informed the program or service description, target population, and program or service delivery and implementation information: the program or service manual, and the program or service developer’s website. 

This information does not necessarily represent the views of the program or service developers. For more information on how this program or service was reviewed, visit the Review Process page or download the Handbook.