Understanding Autism and Self-care for Parents of Children with Autism in underserved communities

Grant Awardees: Jacinta Fernandes & Bhavya Malhotra

The project focused on improving the psychological well- being of parents of children with autism by developing a structured self-care intervention tailored to the needs of underserved communities. Through a contextual needs assessment conducted with caregivers, the project co-created workshop materials and practical self-care resources grounded in solution-focused approaches and cognitive behavioural therapy. The pilot workshop provided parents with strategies to manage stress, build coping skills, and prioritise their own well-being while caring for their children. 

Project Highlights:

• Conducted a contextual needs assessment to understand caregiver experiences and priorities. 

• Developed workshop booklets, self-care activities, consent forms, and feedback tools. 

• Successfully piloted the intervention with mothers of children with autism, receiving positive participant feedback.

• Created a practical self-care resource that can support future caregiver programs. 

• Established a foundation for expanding the intervention through future funding opportunities.