How Can Families Become the Strongest Partners in Autism Treatment?

Editor’s Note:

his article summarizes the most compelling insights from the “Harvard International Forum on Autism Science and Family,” focusing specifically on the role of families. It aims to bridge scientific research with real-world family needs, offering practical perspectives and takeaways for families living with autism.

From April 6 to April 7, 2025, the Harvard International Forum on Autism Science and Family was successfully held in Boston, USA. The forum brought together scientific research and social engagement, highlighting family support and societal inclusion as key themes. It passionately and thoughtfully addressed the real-life challenges and needs faced by families affected by autism.

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Family: The Most Reliable Support System

In the forum’s opening remarks, Dr. David A. Hirsh emphasized that education and social environments form the foundation of support for families with autistic children. He advocated for a systemic and inclusive support network that addresses every stage of development.

In her keynote speech, “Autism: Myths and Evidence,” Dr. Ann M. Neumeyer highlighted that families, when supported by society, provide the initial framework for understanding and acceptance that is critical to the development of children on the autism spectrum.

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Family as a Collaborative Growth Partner

Dr. Xue-Jun (June) Kong underscored that families are not merely caregivers or rescuers—they are co-participants in a child’s developmental journey. Through precise diagnostics and personalized intervention, families become active collaborators in growth.

Dr. Walid Yassin further illustrated that society must adopt a respectful and inclusive attitude toward families with autistic members, thereby fostering a truly participatory and accepting social environment.

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Economic, Legal, and Emotional Systems of Support

On financial security, Ms. Jinping Xu shared strategic approaches to managing household finances for families with special needs, ensuring sustained quality of life for autistic individuals.

From a legal perspective, Dr. Catherine Liyun Zhang introduced practical models for special needs trusts to ensure lifelong independence and security for individuals on the spectrum.

Emotionally, Dr. Elizabeth Hawkins presented mindfulness-based strategies to help families build resilience and cultivate stronger emotional bonds, transforming pressure into connection.

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Intelligent Technology: A New Ally in Family Support

Dr. Mei Zhang introduced the role of artificial intelligence in modeling autistic thinking patterns to assist in both diagnosis and training. AI technologies, she noted, are becoming valuable allies in empowering families to better support their children.

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At this year’s Harvard forum, families were not only observed and understood—they were redefined as the foundational pillars in the development of children with autism. Science, far from being abstract or distant, has proven to be a vital resource in helping us nurture, support, and truly understand autistic individuals.