Some parents elect to perform this role themselves. Return to Top Working Together Parents and professionals communicating effectively and respectfully as partners is an important factor in achieving progress and success for any person with autism or a related disability. Working as a team by sharing information and responsibility can be the most effective approach when developing a treatment plan. Parents often have the best understanding of their children's behavior, communication, preferences, and motivations. Professionals may suggest various ways to help a child but parents know what activities are practical for their family life.
Parental perspective is integral when developing an intervention plan.
Professionals, specializing in autism and related disabilities, have specific knowledge and training with regard to evaluation and development of education and treatment plans. By working together and respecting each other as equally important partners in a child's care, parents and professionals can optimize the potential for a child's development. Located at six university sites throughout Florida, CARD develops programs offering support and training for individuals, families, professionals, and peers throughout Florida. This fact sheet is made possible through the cooperative effort between the branches of the Center for Autism and Related Disabilities of the State of Florida located at the University of South Florida, Florida State University, University of Florida, and the University of Miami.