This booklet provides an overview of the characteristics and needs of young children with autism spectrum disorders or pervasive developmental disorders. It addresses: (1) different disabilities under the classification of autism spectrum disorders or pervasive developmental disorders; (2) characteristics of autism; (3) characteristics of children with Asperger's disorder; (4) characteristics of children with pervasive developmental disordernot otherwise specified; (5) causes of autism; (6) how a child is assessed; (7) helping children with autism communicate; (8) helping children with autism with social awareness; (9) helping develop imaginative play and flexibility; (10) managing melt-downs and other difficult behaviors in children with autism; (11) supports, therapies, and alternative options for helping children with autism, including multidisciplinary therapy, the Treatment and Education of Autistic and related Communication Handicapped Children approach, applied behavioral analysis, diet options, the Picture Exchange Communication Systems, medication, and sensory integration therapy. The booklet closes with a summary of tips for parents and carers for helping a young child with autistic behavior communicate, interact socially, and deal with obsessions, intense interest, and anxiety. A list of 21 resources is provided. (CR)