EDINBURGH, Scotland: The Scottish government has released an "autism toolbox" to support professionals working with autistic children and young people.

Every school and educational authority in the country will receive a copy of the resource, which will provide examples of good practice on topics such as how best to work with the parents and families of autistic children.

School staff will benefit from practical tips on how to provide creative and personalised teaching to early years, primary and secondary school children. Education authorities will receive guidelines on strategic planning and service provision.

Professor Aline-Wendy Dunlop, director of the National Centre for Autism Studies at the University of Strathclyde, which designed the toolbox, said the resource would make professionals aware of autistic children's educational rights.

Adam Ingram, Scottish Minister for Children and Early Years, said: "I am confident that this resource will complement existing practices by local authorities and help ensure that all young people with autism are given more opportunities to progress and enjoy their education."

(Source: Children & Young People Now, April 16, 2009)